Your kitchen is the hardest-working room in the house. Grease builds up on the hob, crumbs hide behind the toaster, and the fridge develops its own ecosystem if left unchecked. Here's the professional checklist our cleaners follow.
Start With the Surfaces
Clear everything off the worktops. Spray with an all-purpose cleaner and wipe down thoroughly. Pay attention to the area behind the kettle and toaster — this is where grease and crumbs accumulate fastest.
The Hob and Splashback
Remove grates or trivets and soak them in hot soapy water. Degrease the hob surface with a specialist cleaner. Wipe down the splashback from top to bottom, paying attention to grout lines if tiled.
Inside the Oven
If you're doing a full deep clean, tackle the oven interior. Remove the racks and soak them. Apply oven cleaner to the interior and leave it to work for at least 20 minutes before wiping clean.
The Fridge
Remove all items, check dates, and discard anything expired. Remove shelves and drawers and wash them in warm soapy water. Wipe the interior with a food-safe antibacterial spray.
Sink and Taps
Scrub the sink basin, paying attention to the drain area. Polish the taps with a microfibre cloth. If you have a stainless steel sink, buff it in the direction of the grain for a streak-free finish.
Floors
Sweep first to remove loose debris, then mop with a suitable floor cleaner. Start from the far corner and work towards the door so you don't walk on wet floors.
The Finishing Touches
Empty the bin and replace the liner. Wipe the bin exterior. Check and wipe light switches and door handles — these are high-touch areas that harbour bacteria.