Homes & Gardens' kitchen checklist starts with cabinets and recommends moving from higher areas downward. Removing contents and liners provides access to interior debris, while cabinet tops also need attention where they do not meet the ceiling.

Work Downward Through a Kitchen Cleaning Session

Choose a cleaner suited to the finish and allow surfaces to dry before replacing items. Continue with lower work areas and leave the floor until falling debris has been collected. The sequence reduces repeated work, while food-contact surfaces still need the specific rinsing or sanitizing required for their use.

Cleaning higher storage first can avoid dropping dust onto finished lower surfaces.