Cleaning Tips
and Hints

If you’re like most Chicagoans, you love deep dishes but not deep cleaning. Whether you’re cooking in a West Town condo or a South Loop studio, this is your no-fuss, no-overwhelm kitchen deep clean checklist—ideal for lazy cleaners who still want results.

✅ Step 1: Set a 30-Minute Timer

Commit to a short burst of cleaning. No scrolling, no distractions. Just 30 minutes. You got this.

✅ Step 2: Declutter Counters

Toss junk mail, put away small appliances (hello, air fryer!), and wipe down surfaces. Chicago apartments often have limited counter space—clearing them instantly makes your kitchen look cleaner.

✅ Step 3: Clean Out the Fridge

Toss expired food, wipe shelves, and take inventory. Leftover giardiniera from your last Italian beef run? Time to let it go. Bonus points if you wipe sticky jars and reorganize shelves by category.

✅ Step 4: Microwave & Stove Magic

Place a bowl of water with lemon in the microwave, run it for 3 minutes, then wipe it down. For stove grates, let them soak in soapy water while you clean the rest.

✅ Step 5: Sink, Faucets & Floors

Scrub the sink with baking soda, then disinfect. Don’t forget the faucet! Finish by sweeping and giving your floors a quick mop—especially important during Chicago’s messy winters.

✅ Optional: Light a Candle

Your kitchen’s clean. You deserve ambiance. Go with something fresh and citrusy to match the vibe.