How to Clean Corners in a Kitchen?

Cleaning kitchen corners can be tricky due to their tight spaces and the common build-up of dust, grease, and grime. To effectively clean these often-overlooked areas, you need the right tools to reach deep into crevices.

Why Kitchen Corners Need Special Attention

Kitchen corners and crevices are prime spots for collecting dust, cobwebs, crumbs, spills, and grease splatters. Over time, this can lead to sticky, unsanitary build-up that is difficult to remove with standard cleaning methods. Regular cleaning of these areas is essential for maintaining hygiene and a tidy kitchen environment.

Essential Tools for Cleaning Kitchen Corners

According to cleaning experts, to clean corners and crevices in the kitchen, you will need to use a tool that can reach these tight spaces. Choosing the right tool depends on the type of dirt and the specific area you're cleaning.

Here are some effective options:

• Vacuum Cleaner Attachments: A vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool or a soft brush attachment is a good option for removing dry debris like dust, crumbs, and cobwebs from corners, especially in high or low areas.
  • Crevice Tool: Excellent for getting into narrow gaps along baseboards or between cabinets and walls.
  • Soft Brush Attachment: Useful for dusting decorative trim or gently cleaning corners without scratching surfaces.
• Scrub Brushes: A long-handled scrub brush is another option particularly effective for tackling stubborn grime, grease, or dried spills in floor corners or wall junctions. The bristles provide the necessary friction to lift stuck-on dirt.
  • Look for brushes with stiff bristles for heavy-duty cleaning or softer ones for more delicate surfaces.
• Other Useful Items:
  • Old Toothbrush or Detail Brush: Perfect for very small or intricate corners, grout lines, or tight spots around appliances.
  • Microfiber Cloths: Can be folded or wrapped around a tool (like a butter knife or putty knife) to get into tight spaces for wiping down dust or applying cleaning solutions.
  • Cotton Swabs: Ideal for cleaning tiny, delicate corners or applying cleaning solutions precisely.

How to Clean Different Types of Kitchen Corners

The best approach depends on the type of surface and the nature of the build-up.

For Dust and Dry Debris (e.g., cobwebs, crumbs):

1. Start with dry cleaning.
2. Use a vacuum cleaner with the crevice tool or soft brush attachment to suction up loose debris. This prevents simply pushing dust around.
3. For hard-to-reach spots, a duster with an extendable handle or a microfiber cloth wrapped around a thin tool can be effective.

For Greasy or Sticky Grime:

1. Apply an appropriate kitchen degreaser or all-purpose cleaner to the corner area. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to break down the grime (always follow product instructions).
2. Use a long-handled scrub brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the area, focusing on lifting the build-up.
3. Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth, rinsing the cloth frequently.
4. Dry the corner thoroughly to prevent water spots or mold growth.

For Floor Corners:

1. Sweep or vacuum loose debris first using a crevice tool.
2. Apply floor cleaner directly to the corner or use your mop, paying special attention to working the cleaner into the corner with the mop head or a scrub brush.
3. For dried spills or sticky spots, use a scrub brush or a stiff-bristled brush designed for floors.
4. Rinse the area thoroughly.

For Wall Corners:

1. Dust the corner first using a vacuum brush attachment or a microfiber cloth.
2. Use a damp cloth with a mild all-purpose cleaner to wipe down the walls.
3. For stubborn marks or grease splatters, a small amount of degreaser and a soft brush attachment or cloth can be used carefully depending on the wall finish. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.

Quick Guide: Tools for Kitchen Corners

By utilizing the right tools that are designed to reach tight spaces, such as vacuum attachments or scrub brushes, you can effectively clean even the most difficult corners in your kitchen and maintain a sparkling, hygienic space.