Let’s face it: deep cleaning behind appliances is one of those chores that’s easy to avoid—but incredibly satisfying when done right. Dust, crumbs, pet hair, and even the occasional lost sock love to gather behind your fridge, oven, or washer and dryer. But before you break out the cleaning gear and start yanking appliances from the wall, it’s essential to know how to do it safely—without damaging your machines, flooring, or your back.

Here’s a practical step-by-step guide from the experts at Extreme Cleaning Services to get you through it without a hitch.

Safety First: Prep Your Space and Your Tools

Before you touch a single plug, make sure your cleaning strategy includes:

• Unplugging the appliance – Always cut the power before cleaning behind your fridge, oven, or washer/dryer. It’s a simple but crucial safety measure.
• Protecting your floors – Slide heavy-duty cardboard, old towels, or furniture sliders under the feet to prevent scratching tile or hardwood floors.
• Gathering the right tools – You’ll need a slim vacuum or crevice tool, appliance-safe cleaners (nothing too acidic or abrasive), microfiber cloths, a soft-bristled brush, and possibly a helping hand.

Fridge: The Dust Magnet

Refrigerators tend to collect massive amounts of dust behind and underneath—especially on the coils, which can make your appliance work harder and use more energy.

Steps:

1. Unplug the fridge and move it gently forward. Most units have wheels but may need a slight tilt to get moving.
2. Use a slim vacuum nozzle to remove dust from the floor and coils.
3. Wipe the wall and baseboards with a damp microfiber cloth.
4. If coils are accessible (usually at the back or bottom), gently clean them with a coil brush or soft vacuum attachment.

Pro Tip: Clean behind your fridge every 6 months to keep it running efficiently.

Oven: Grease and Crumbs Central

Ovens not only attract crumbs—they’re also grease-prone, which can lead to sticky buildup behind and beneath them.

Steps:

1. Disconnect the oven (gas or electric) and carefully slide it forward.
2. Vacuum up loose crumbs or debris.
3. Use an appliance-safe degreaser to wipe down the wall, floor, and back of the oven. Avoid getting moisture into vents or control panels.
4. Rinse any residue with a damp cloth, then dry thoroughly before plugging it back in.

Pro Tip: Place a drop cloth or towel under the oven while cleaning to catch any falling grime.

Washer and Dryer: Lint and Moisture Risks

Lint, detergent spills, and even mold can accumulate behind these appliances.

Steps:

1. Unplug both appliances and turn off the water valves (for washers).
2. Carefully move each unit forward. Dryers often have flexible vents—detach them gently if needed.
3. Vacuum lint and debris from the floor, wall, and appliance backs. Clean any vents or hoses you can safely access.
4. Wipe down surfaces with a microfiber cloth and mild cleaner. Make sure everything is dry before reassembly.

Pro Tip: Lint is a fire hazard. Clean behind your washer and dryer every 3–4 months.

Deep Cleaning Without Deep Trouble

It’s important not to let dirt build up in hard-to-reach areas. Regular maintenance helps prevent long-term damage and keeps your home hygienic. For many households, Deep Cleaning behind appliances only needs to be done two or three times a year—but if you have pets or allergies, bump it up a notch.

Need a hand? Extreme Cleaning Services has helped homeowners across Ogden and West Haven take care of the tricky spots most people forget. Their professional team uses floor-safe moving techniques, appliance-friendly cleaners, and top-tier tools like slim-profile vacuums to make sure your machines (and your floors) stay in great shape.

Final Thoughts: Make It a Habit

Getting into the routine of deep cleaning behind appliances is easier when you remember the payoff: better air quality, safer appliances, and fewer mystery smells in the kitchen. Whether you’re tackling it yourself or calling in the pros at Extreme Cleaning Services, taking time for this task a few times a year is well worth the effort.

And don’t forget—what’s out of sight shouldn’t be out of mind. Your appliances—and your lungs—will thank you.