How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen in One Hour

A deep clean doesn't have to take all weekend. Work top to bottom, let products soak while you do something else, and use the right tools. You can reset the whole kitchen in about an hour.

Before you start: open a window, wear gloves, and never mix cleaning products. Test any new cleaner or scrubber on a small hidden spot first.

Minutes 0–10Clear and spray

Clear the counters and stovetop completely. Spray degreaser on the stove, range hood and backsplash, then let it sit while you move on. The soak does most of the work for you.

Minutes 10–20Drains and sink

Pull out anything caught in the drain, then freshen it. Scrub the sink basin, the faucet base and the edges where grime collects.

Minutes 20–35Stovetop, grates and pots

Back to the stovetop: the degreaser has loosened the grease, so it wipes away far more easily. Use a scraper for baked-on spots and scrub grates and pans while you're there.

Also handy: the Stainless Steel Kitchen Scraper ($19.99) for tough surfaces and the Stainless Steel Pot & Dish Scrubber ($34.99) for heavy-duty pots.

Minutes 35–45Appliances

Wipe the fronts and handles of the fridge, microwave, dishwasher and oven. They get touched all day and collect fingerprints and grease. Don't forget the inside of the microwave.

Minutes 45–55Counters and cabinet fronts

Wipe cabinet doors top to bottom, then finish with the counters, so drips land on surfaces you haven't cleaned yet. Microfiber leaves fewer streaks than paper towels.

Minutes 55–60Floor and finish

Sweep or vacuum, then mop from the far corner toward the door. Put back only the things you use every day.