How to Clean Your Kitchen Like a Pro: Step-by-Step Guide

If your kitchen feels more “chaotic cooking zone” than “fresh and functional,” don’t worry—you’re not alone.

At Scrubishly, we clean dozens of kitchens across the GTA every week, and one thing we’ve learned? Most people are missing a few key steps that make the difference between a basic wipe-down and a seriously clean, pro-level kitchen.

Whether you’re prepping for guests, doing a deep seasonal clean, or just want to stay ahead of the mess, this guide will show you how to clean your kitchen like a pro—step by step.

Why Kitchen Cleaning Matters

Your kitchen is one of the most-used (and messiest) spaces in your home.

Between cooking, eating, snacking, and life in general, grease, crumbs, and bacteria build up fast.

A clean kitchen:

• Helps prevent foodborne illnesses
• Keeps pests like ants and fruit flies away
• Makes food prep easier and more enjoyable
• Instantly improves the feel of your home
  

Let’s dive in.

Step 1: Start with a Clean Slate

Clear your counters

Remove everything from the countertops—yes, everything. That includes toasters, coffee makers, fruit bowls, and mail piles.

Wipe down appliances and place them aside so you can clean the surface beneath them.

Load or empty the dishwasher

Start with an empty or running dishwasher. That way, any dishes you wash during the process have somewhere to go.

Soak stubborn items

Fill the sink with hot, soapy water and soak:

• Greasy pans
• Stove knobs
• Microwave plate
• Dish rack trays
  

Let them sit while you tackle other areas.

Step 2: Clean from Top to Bottom

Clean upper cabinets and shelves

Start at the top so crumbs and dust don’t fall on freshly cleaned surfaces.

• Dust cabinet tops
• Wipe cabinet faces with a gentle degreaser
• Clean under cabinet lighting or shelves
  

Scrubishly Pro Tip: Mix equal parts vinegar and warm water for a natural cabinet cleaner. Add a drop of dish soap for greasy spots.

Wipe windows, blinds, and light fixtures

Use a glass-safe cleaner on windows and polish light fixtures with a damp microfiber cloth.

Don’t forget:

• Light switches
• Handles and knobs
• Ceiling fan blades or range hood lights

Step 3: Deep Clean the Appliances

Fridge & Freezer

• Toss expired food
• Remove and wash shelves in warm, soapy water
• Wipe the interior with a mix of baking soda and water
• Clean door seals and handles
  

Oven & Stovetop

• Use a degreaser or baking soda paste (mix with water)
• Scrub stove grates and drip pans
• Wipe under burners or heating elements
• Use the self-clean setting if your oven has one—but do this on a day you can open windows!
  

Microwave

• Microwave a bowl of water with lemon slices for 2 minutes
• Let steam loosen grime, then wipe interior clean
• Don’t forget the buttons and handle

Step 4: Disinfect Surfaces

Counters and backsplash

Use a surface-safe disinfectant or all-purpose cleaner. For natural stone like granite, use a pH-neutral product to avoid damage.

Wipe backsplash tiles, grout lines, and edges where crumbs like to hide.

Sink and faucet

• Scrub the sink basin with baking soda
• Pour vinegar down the drain to deodorize
• Polish the faucet with a dry cloth after cleaning

Step 5: Cabinets, Drawers & Pantry

Tidy drawers and organizers

• Empty utensil drawers and wipe inside
• Toss or donate broken tools or duplicates
• Vacuum crumbs from silverware organizers
  

Clean out the pantry

• Check expiry dates
• Wipe down shelves
• Place open bags in sealed containers to prevent pests

Step 6: Floors Last

Now that all the surfaces are clean, finish with the floors.

Steps:

1. Sweep or vacuum thoroughly
2. Use a damp mop with floor-safe cleaner
3. Get into corners and under the stove or fridge if you can
4. Use a microfiber cloth or steam mop for extra shine

Scrubishly Tip: Add a few drops of essential oil (like lemon or eucalyptus) to your mop bucket for that “clean home” smell.

Bonus Pro Tips for a Cleaner Kitchen Every Day

Want to avoid a big deep clean every week? Here’s how to stay ahead of the mess:

Daily Habits:

• Wipe counters after meals
• Load dishes right away
• Take out the trash before bed
• Rinse your sink every night
  

Weekly Tasks:

• Clean out the fridge
• Wipe cabinet faces
• Disinfect handles and knobs
• Sweep and mop the floor
  

Monthly Check-ins:

• Deep clean appliances
• Organize the pantry
• Clean under the sink
• Wash reusable grocery bags

Should You Hire a Pro for Kitchen Cleaning?

Yes—especially if:

• You’ve fallen behind and want a fresh start
• You’re hosting an event or holiday dinner
• You’re moving in or out of a home
• You just want your time and energy back
  

At Scrubishly, our professional kitchen cleaning includes everything from grease-busting to appliance interiors—done efficiently, safely, and with a smile.

We bring the sparkle, so you can focus on the cooking.

Final Thoughts: Clean Like a Pro, or Call One In

Cleaning your kitchen doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.

With the right plan—and a little motivation—you can transform your space from “meh” to “WOW” in just a few hours.

But if time’s tight, life’s busy, or you just want someone else to handle the mess—we’ve got your back.

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