## Should You Clean Kitchen Appliances Before Use?
When you bring home a new kitchen appliance, it’s tempting to tear open the box and start using it right away. But before you do, it’s important to take a moment to clean it. Here are a few reasons why:
* **To remove any bacteria or debris that may have accumulated during shipping and storage.** Appliances can collect dust, dirt, and even bacteria during the manufacturing and shipping process. Cleaning them before use will help to ensure that you’re not ingesting any of these contaminants.
* **To remove any protective coatings that may have been applied to the appliance.** Some appliances come with a protective coating that needs to be removed before use. This coating can be made of oil, wax, or another substance that can affect the taste of your food. By cleaning the appliance before use, you’ll remove this coating and ensure that your food tastes its best.
* **To familiarize yourself with the appliance and its features.** Cleaning the appliance before use is a good way to get to know its different parts and features. This will help you to use the appliance safely and effectively.
Here are some specific tips for cleaning different types of kitchen appliances:
* **Ovens:** Remove any racks or trays from the oven and wash them with hot, soapy water. Wipe down the inside of the oven with a damp cloth. If the oven is particularly dirty, you can use a mild oven cleaner.
* **Stovetops:** Remove any grates or burners from the stovetop and wash them with hot, soapy water. Wipe down the surface of the stovetop with a damp cloth. If the stovetop is particularly dirty, you can use a mild stovetop cleaner.
* **Microwaves:** Remove the turntable from the microwave and wash it with hot, soapy water. Wipe down the inside of the microwave with a damp cloth. If the microwave is particularly dirty, you can use a mild microwave cleaner.
* **Refrigerators:** Remove any shelves or drawers from the refrigerator and wash them with hot, soapy water. Wipe down the inside of the refrigerator with a damp cloth. If the refrigerator is particularly dirty, you can use a mild refrigerator cleaner.
* **Dishwashers:** Remove any racks or baskets from the dishwasher and wash them with hot, soapy water. Wipe down the inside of the dishwasher with a damp cloth. If the dishwasher is particularly dirty, you can use a mild dishwasher cleaner.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your kitchen appliances are clean and safe to use.