How to Clean a Kitchen During a Regular Cleaning

During a regular cleaning, your goal is to leave the kitchen looking refreshed, disinfected, and tidy without doing deep-clean tasks. Follow these steps carefully to stay consistent with Done Right Cleaning standards.

Step 1: Clear and Prepare

Start by removing items from the countertops so you can clean every surface properly. Move décor, dishes, and small appliances to one side or off the counter if needed. Wipe away crumbs and food debris with a dry cloth or paper towel before spraying any cleaner.

When done, return items exactly where you found them so the space looks neat and undisturbed.

Step 2: Countertops and Surfaces

Spray all-purpose cleaner evenly across all counters and backsplash areas. Wipe using a clean microfiber cloth until the surfaces are dry and streak-free. Once finished, place that cloth in your dirty rag bag so it’s not reused elsewhere.

Clean the stove top and knobs with all-purpose cleaner. If the stove is extra greasy or has burnt-on buildup, use Bar Keepers Friend to lift residue and restore shine. For lighter messes, the all-purpose cleaner is fine.

If you see fingerprints or residue on stainless steel appliances, spray Weiman’s Stainless Steel Polish onto a fresh rag (not directly on the surface). Use small, even motions to polish and remove streaks. A little goes a long way.

For real wood areas or cabinetry, spray Pledge wood polish lightly onto a fresh rag and wipe with the grain of the wood. Use sparingly.

Step 3: Sink and Fixtures

Rinse out any debris if present, then scrub the sink with Bar Keepers Friend and a damp cloth or sponge. Focus on the basin, around the drain, and around the faucet edges. If the sink isn’t heavily soiled, all-purpose cleaner is fine. When finished, rinse the area with warm water, wipe dry, and polish the faucet to remove water spots.

Step 4: Appliances

Wipe the exterior surfaces of all the kitchen appliances, including the fridge, stove, oven, dishwasher, and microwave. Make sure to clean handles, touch areas, and control panels thoroughly.

If the appliance is stainless steel, do not use all-purpose cleaner. Instead, spray Weiman’s Stainless Steel Polish onto a fresh rag (never directly on the surface) and wipe in the direction of the grain to remove smudges and fingerprints. A small amount is enough to polish the entire surface.

If the appliance is not stainless steel, clean it using all-purpose cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Wipe until the surface is completely dry and streak-free.

Cleaning the inside of the microwave is considered above and beyond and should only be done when time permits or if the client has specifically requested it.

Step 5: Cabinetry and Floors

Do a quick visual check for marks, spills, or fingerprints on cabinet doors. Wipe as needed with your all-purpose cleaner.

Vacuum the entire kitchen floor using the Noma canister vacuum, paying attention to corners and under the table. After vacuuming, fill the Frank’s spin mop bucket with warm water and a small capful of Pine-Sol. Wring out the mop until it’s only damp, never soaking wet. Mop from the furthest corner of the kitchen toward the exit to avoid stepping on freshly cleaned floors.

Step 6: Final Touches

Check over your work. Straighten chairs, wipe visible smudges from appliances, and make sure everything looks polished and fresh.

If time permits and the client gives permission, you may take out the kitchen garbage, but always ask first.

Remember

The kitchen should look bright, tidy, and disinfected when you leave. Always follow these steps in order, work efficiently, and use fresh rags for each task to prevent cross-contamination.

Use new rags frequently throughout the clean so surfaces are properly disinfected and not just spread around with a dirty cloth. A clean rag makes a big difference in achieving a true Done Right finish.

Doing it the Done Right way means taking pride in the details because even the small things make a big difference.