How to Naturally Clean Your Kitchen Appliances: From Ovens to Dishwashers

Your kitchen appliances work hard every day, but they also collect grease, grime, and odors that can affect performance and hygiene. From baked-on spills in the oven to residue in the dishwasher, regular cleaning is essential—but harsh chemicals aren't the only option. Natural kitchen cleaning with plant-based ingredients is effective, safe for your family, and better for the environment.

Mrs. Meyer's offers a range of plant-derived cleaners that tackle tough messes without synthetic fragrances or bleach. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to naturally clean your oven, dishwasher, refrigerator, and other appliances using gentle yet powerful products. You'll learn step-by-step methods that save time and keep your kitchen fresh.

Why Choose Natural Cleaners for Your Kitchen Appliances?

Conventional kitchen cleaners often contain ammonia, chlorine, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can leave fumes and residues. When you clean appliances that come in contact with food—like ovens and dishwashers—those residues can transfer to your meals. Natural cleaners use plant-based surfactants, essential oils, and biodegradable ingredients that clean effectively without toxic buildup.

Mrs. Meyer's cleaners, for example, rely on essential oils like geranium, rosemary, and lemon verbena for fragrance and cleaning power. They are free from phthalates, parabens, and artificial dyes. Using natural products also reduces your household's chemical footprint, making your kitchen a healthier space for cooking and gathering.

• Plant-based ingredients break down grease and food residues naturally.
• Essential oils provide antimicrobial benefits and a pleasant, non-synthetic scent.
• Natural cleaners are safer for pets, children, and those with sensitivities.

Step 1: Naturally Clean Your Oven Without Harsh Fumes

Oven cleaning is often dreaded because of the heavy grease and baked-on food. Instead of using a toxic oven cleaner, try a two-step natural method. First, remove loose debris with a damp cloth. Then, create a paste of baking soda and water—apply it to interior surfaces and let it sit overnight. The next day, spray a mixture of white vinegar and water to lift the residue, then wipe clean.

For ongoing maintenance, use a plant-based multi-surface cleaner like Mrs. Meyer's Geranium Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner to wipe down the oven door and exterior. The geranium essential oil cuts through grease while leaving a fresh, floral scent. Avoid spraying directly on heating elements—apply to a cloth first. This routine prevents heavy buildup and keeps your oven ready for baking.

• Always let the oven cool completely before cleaning.
• For stubborn spots, use a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching surfaces.
• Wipe up spills as soon as the oven cools to prevent baked-on messes.

Step 2: Refresh Your Dishwasher Naturally for Sparkling Dishes

Your dishwasher needs regular cleaning too. Food particles, soap scum, and hard water minerals can accumulate, leading to odors and poor performance. A natural monthly deep clean involves placing a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and running a hot cycle. Then sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run a short rinse cycle to deodorize.

For everyday freshness, use a plant-based dish soap like Mrs. Meyer's dish soap (available in scents like basil and lemon verbena) to pre-rinse dishes and prevent residue. You can also wipe the door gasket and seal with a damp cloth and a small amount of multi-surface cleaner. This simple habit extends the life of your dishwasher and ensures your dishes come out spotless.

• Check and clean the filter monthly to remove trapped food debris.
• Avoid using too much detergent—it can cause buildup and cloudy glassware.
• Run the vinegar cycle when you notice odors or white film on dishes.

Step 3: Clean Your Refrigerator Naturally to Keep Food Fresh

Refrigerators can harbor spills, mold, and bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Start by removing all food and shelves. Wash shelves and drawers with warm water and a mild plant-based soap. For stubborn stains, use a baking soda paste. Wipe down interior walls with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar, then dry thoroughly.

To maintain freshness, place an open box of baking soda on a shelf to absorb odors. You can also use Mrs. Meyer's Liquid Hand Soap in a fragrance like Honeycomb Liquid Hand Soap to clean the exterior handles and door surfaces—its gentle formula won't damage stainless steel or painted finishes. Wipe spills immediately to prevent sticky residues and bacteria growth.

• Clean your refrigerator every 3-4 months to prevent odor buildup.
• Use a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching stainless steel surfaces.
• Check expiration dates and discard old items before cleaning.

Step 4: Deodorize and Clean Your Microwave Naturally

Microwaves trap food splatters and odors quickly. A natural cleaning method uses steam: fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few slices of lemon or a tablespoon of vinegar. Heat on high for 3-5 minutes until steam condenses on the walls. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then wipe the interior with a soft cloth—the steam loosens grime and neutralizes odors.

For the exterior and control panel, use a damp cloth with a drop of plant-based hand soap. Mrs. Meyer's Honeycomb Liquid Hand Soap offers a warm, sweet scent that pairs well with kitchen cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the microwave's finish. Regular steam cleaning keeps your microwave fresh without chemical sprays.

• Never use metal scrubbers inside the microwave—they can cause sparks.
• Wipe the door seal to prevent food buildup and ensure proper closure.
• Repeat the steam method weekly if you use the microwave heavily.

Step 5: Maintain Your Stovetop and Range Hood Naturally

Stovetops collect grease and food splatters from daily cooking. For glass or ceramic cooktops, use a non-abrasive cleaner: mix a few drops of plant-based dish soap with water, wipe with a soft cloth, and buff dry. For gas burners, remove grates and soak them in warm soapy water, then scrub with a soft brush.

Range hood filters should be cleaned monthly to maintain airflow. Remove the filter and soak it in hot water with a degreasing natural cleaner. Mrs. Meyer's multi-surface concentrate can be diluted and used for this purpose. Wipe the hood exterior with a damp cloth and a small amount of liquid hand soap. Clean filters improve ventilation and reduce kitchen odors.

• Always unplug the range hood before cleaning the filter.
• Dry burner grates completely before replacing to prevent rust.
• For stubborn grease on stovetops, let the cleaner sit for 5 minutes before wiping.

Natural kitchen cleaning doesn't have to be complicated. By using plant-based products like Mrs. Meyer's Liquid Hand Soap and Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner, you can keep your appliances running efficiently and your kitchen smelling fresh—without harsh chemicals. Start with one appliance this weekend, and enjoy a cleaner, greener home. For a complete kitchen cleaning experience, try the Geranium Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner to tackle counters, stovetops, and appliance exteriors with ease.