Maintaining the cleanliness of your home appliances not only ensures their longevity but also keeps them running efficiently and helps in maintaining a healthy living environment. Here are hygiene tips for various home appliances:

1. Refrigerator:
   • Exterior: Wipe down with a mixture of water and mild detergent. For stainless steel exteriors, use a specific cleaner to avoid streaks.
   • Interior: Remove all items. Clean shelves, bins, and walls with a solution of water and baking soda (2 tablespoons of baking soda to 1 quart of water). This neutralises odors. Wipe down bottles and containers before returning them.
   • Coils: Vacuum the coils at the back or underneath the fridge annually to maintain efficiency.
2. Oven and stovetop:
   • Oven: Use the self-cleaning function if available. Otherwise, use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the interior. For tougher stains, commercial oven cleaners can be used, but ensure proper ventilation.
   • Stovetop: For electric stoves, remove and clean the coils and drip pans. For gas stoves, remove the grates and burners and soak them in soapy water.
3. Microwave:
   • Place a microwave-safe bowl with a mixture of water and lemon slices inside and microwave on high for 5 minutes. The steam will help loosen the grime. Wipe down the interior afterward.
   • Clean the exterior with a damp cloth.
4. Dishwasher:
   • Remove any debris from the bottom.
   • Place a cup of white vinegar in the upper rack and run a hot water cycle. This will remove grease and limescale.
   • Sprinkle baking soda at the bottom and run a short cycle for added freshness.
5. Washing Machine:
   • Run an empty cycle with hot water and 2 cups of white vinegar to clean and deodorise the drum.
   • Wipe down the door seal and leave the door open after each use to prevent mould and mildew.
   • Clean the detergent and fabric softener dispensers regularly.
6. Dryer:
   • Clean the lint filter after every use.
   • Check the exterior vent for any blockages and clean it out periodically.
   • Run an empty cycle with a damp cloth containing a few drops of lemon oil or white vinegar to freshen the drum.
7. Coffee Maker:
   • Brew a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar to decalcify the machine. Follow with a few cycles of plain water to rinse.
   • Wash the carafe and other removable parts in warm, soapy water.
8. Toaster/Toaster Oven:
   • Empty the crumb tray regularly.
   • Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. For the interior of a toaster oven, follow similar cleaning methods as a regular oven.
9. Blender/Food Processor:
   • Immediately after use, fill with warm water and a drop of dish soap, then blend for a few seconds. Rinse thoroughly.
   • For deeper cleaning, disassemble and wash each part separately.
10. Air Conditioner:

• Clean or replace filters regularly.
• Vacuum and wipe the exterior. For window units, ensure the drainage system isn’t clogged.
• For central AC, ensure the outdoor unit is free of debris and foliage.

11. Vacuum Cleaner:

• Empty the trash can or replace bags regularly.
• Clean or replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Check hoses and attachments for blockages.

Remember to always unplug appliances before cleaning and refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning guidelines. Regular maintenance and cleaning can extend the life of your appliances and improve their efficiency.