The fact that Starlight homes are new construction isn’t the only thing to be excited about — they also come with brand-new appliances. Since you’re the first owner, they’ll be in pristine condition, and with a few extra simple steps, you can keep them sparkling.
From the dishwasher to the washing machine, these tips will help you keep your appliances working and looking just as good as they did when you first moved in.
Stove
The kitchen is the heart of your home, so it’s important to keep it clean for appearance and performance.
Thankfully, electric stovetops are easy to maintain, and most of the time, they just need to be wiped down to keep their shine. In the event of any spills, act quickly before they turn into a hard-to-clean mess. Once the surface of your stove cools, use a cooktop cleaner, glass cleaner or a little bit of baking soda to get it back into shape.
If cleaners and paper towels aren’t cutting it, try gently using a scraper to slice through the hardened mess. It’s also helpful to clean the back control panel and temperature knobs so grease doesn’t build up and cause issues down the line.
Oven
Right beneath your stainless steel stovetop, you’ll find the oven, and it couldn’t be easier to clean. All you need to do is use the self-cleaning feature, and within a few hours, spills and grease stains will disappear. If you have any spots that are really baked on, try spraying an oven cleaner product inside before you start the self-clean.
If you notice a residue on the oven racks, just remove them and soak them in warm soapy water before giving them a good scrub. Lastly, make sure to replace your oven light when it goes out so the interior is well-lit enough to check in on the delicious recipes you’re making.
Doing these quick tasks every so often will prevent grease from building up and help promote efficient heating, and your oven will be in top-notch condition for years to come.
Dishwasher
Who really wants to spend their time washing dishes by hand? Let your dishwasher do the work for you and spend a fraction of the time making sure it’s running smoothly.
Start by cleaning out the filter to prevent food from clogging it, which makes it hard for water to drain. Running a vinegar rinse cycle every few weeks will also keep things clean by removing mineral deposits and eliminating odors. It’s also a good idea to occasionally check that the door gaskets are holding a good seal so they don’t spring an accidental leak.
These tricks won’t just keep your dishes sparkling — they’ll also help make your dishwasher last longer and keep pesky repairs from popping up.
Refrigerator
When it comes to the fridge, its smell is usually more important than its looks.
Remove expired food and wipe up any spills to prevent bacteria from building up and funky odors from setting in. Organizing your items efficiently and avoiding overcrowded shelves will also ensure proper airflow, helping food stay cool and keep from spoiling.
To keep the outside of the fridge looking as fresh as the food inside, use a simple stainless steel cleaner and a soft cloth or paper towel that won’t leave any marks. Make sure you also replace the water filter when your fridge tells you it’s time. Old filters can make it harder for fridges to dispense water and make ice, so it’s worth replacing them to keep your water fresh and your fridge functioning well.
Washing Machine
Don’t let a problem with your washing machine throw a wrench in your laundry routine. After every few loads, wipe down the door seal to prevent moisture buildup that can lead to mold and mildew. Cleaning out the detergent drawer and removing hardened soap residue will help keep things flowing smoothly and prevent internal components from breaking. Just like your dishwasher, you can also run a cleaning cycle with vinegar and hot water to keep your washing machine clean.
Dryer
There’s really only one task involved when it comes to extending your dryer’s lifespan, but it’s an important one — cleaning out the lint trap. Not only will this help increase its drying efficiency, but it also prevents fire hazards.
It’s also worth cleaning out the dryer vent hose every few months to ensure it’s clear and nothing is obstructing its airflow. If you have a hard time accessing the hose or are afraid of breaking it, it’s always okay to call in a professional. And remember, never overload the dryer — doing two smaller loads is better for your dryer in the long run than one big one!
Ready to enjoy a new home outfitted with new appliances? Get in contact with one of our Home Guides and schedule an appointment today.
