Anita Kurup
Small appliances like mixers, food processors, juicers, ovens, microwaves and coffee machines can get dirty even just sitting on the counter. Small appliances have small parts, curves and moving parts that make it inconvenient for cleaning. How can we keep them shiny and clean?
Mixers & Food processors
- Hand washing is strongly recommended for cleaning these appliances.
- Always remove the blade from the bowl (reduces chances of injury)
- Clean each part separately
- Rinse in warm water for better cleaning
- Use an old toothbrush to clean dried-on or stuck-on food
- Wipe metal parts with a clean towel
- For the motor base, take a soft damp cloth, wet it with vinegar and clean the motor base.
Juicers
- Use an old toothbrush to clean the strainer
- Avoid using your hand to remove pulp from the chute; use a wooden spoon or spatula to minimise injury
Coffee makers
- Wash them after each use
- Wash the carafe and brew basket in mild soap and water
- A little baking soda on a wet sponge will remove any coffee spilt or burnt stains on the hot plate
- Clean the tubes and tanks by running white vinegar and water (check manufacturer’s instructions) through it
Ovens & Microwaves
- Clean only once the appliance cools.
- Use a wet soapy sponge or soft scrubber to remove baked-on food
- Use a soft cloth to wipe dry completely
- If there are crumbs stuck in your oven floor, use a thin paint brush to loosen them
- Never use forks or knifes
- Clean their exteriors regularly
- Use damp soapy cloth to clean the glass door
- Use clean damp cloth or sponge to wipe off soap and dry with clean towel
- Avoid touching the heating elements with damp clothes/sponges.
- Avoid scraping the insides as it might damage the stain blocking finish
- If there is nasty odour, try this. Place a bowl of water containing ¼ cup of lemon juice in the oven and run it on high for a minute. Remove the bowl and use the condensation to clean the oven. Wipe it again with clean water.
Points to remember:
- Always unplug your appliances before removing parts for cleaning
- Never immerse small electrical appliances in water
- Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- Make sure all parts are completely dry before plugging on any of the appliances
- You can use your plastic credit card to scrape off stubborn stains