The Best Method For Cleaning Under Large Kitchen Appliances Without Moving Them

There's one area you're probably forgetting in your kitchen deep cleaning routine: under your major appliances. Cleaning below them regularly is key to preventing pests and reducing fire hazards. Plus, it helps your appliances use less energy and last longer. Even better? It's possible to clean under your kitchen appliances without moving them all the way out.

First, assemble your tools. You can pick up a long, flat vacuum attachment that can clean in tight spaces, like the Shark Extendable Under-Appliance Vacuum Wand. Prefer to go vacuum-free? A long brush like the one in the Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit, or a microfiber gap tool, such as the DAYUPA Retractable Gap Dust Cleaner Brush, will do the trick. Want to DIY it? Grab a yardstick or other long, slim rod. Attach a piece of dust-attracting fabric — think a sock, piece of pantyhose, or microfiber towel — to the end with some duct tape. Make sure to also grab a broom or microfiber mop to help clean up the dust and debris you find.

The method to clean under your major kitchen appliances is simple: use your preferred cleaning tool to sweep any debris or food crumbs forward onto the open kitchen floor so you can easily clean. For your dishwasher and refrigerator, remove the kickplate or vent covers to properly access underneath the appliance. Use the thinnest possible cleaning tool to clean under your fridge as many models have the compressor or other delicate coils at the bottom. If possible, use the long vacuum attachment — or special refrigerator coil attachment — to clean the coils.

If your oven has a warming drawer, pull it out to give you more space to work. Depending on your oven's model, you can either reach through the warming drawer opening or slide the cleaning tool underneath it and sweep any debris forward. Grab the microfiber towel and wipe down the drawer and its shelf. Then, once you've cleaned everything, sweep or vacuum it up. This is a great time to mop your kitchen floors to make them look like new!