Maintaince tips for your kitchen and bath post remodel

Congratulations on your new kitchen and bath remodel! You’ve transformed your spaces into something beautiful and functional. Now, to keep them in pristine condition, regular maintenance is key. From cleaning routines to addressing minor issues before they become major problems, our guide will help you protect your investment and enjoy your upgraded spaces for years to come.

Maintaining a clean kitchen and bathroom on a daily basis is the first step toward long-term upkeep. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of dirt, grime, and mildew, keeping your spaces looking new.

Kitchen Cleaning Tips:

• Wipe Down Surfaces: Clean countertops, sinks, and stovetops daily to prevent stains and residue buildup.
• Sweep and Mop Floors: Regularly sweep and mop kitchen floors to remove crumbs and spills.
• Clean Appliances: Wipe down the exterior of appliances, including the refrigerator, oven, and microwave.

Bathroom Cleaning Tips:

• Wipe Down Fixtures: Clean sinks, faucets, and countertops daily to prevent water spots and soap scum.
• Clean Shower and Tub: Use a squeegee to remove water from shower walls and doors after each use to prevent mildew.
• Maintain Floors: Sweep and mop bathroom floors regularly to keep them spotless.

In addition to daily cleaning, performing a deep clean once a week will help maintain the luster of your remodeled spaces. This includes scrubbing surfaces and addressing areas that may not get daily attention.

Kitchen Cleaning Tips:

• Clean Inside Appliances: Wipe down the inside of your microwave, oven, and refrigerator.
• Disinfect High-touch Areas: Pay special attention to cabinet handles, light switches, and door knobs.
• Sanitize the Sink: Use a disinfectant to clean the kitchen sink and garbage disposal.

Bathroom Cleaning Tips:

• Scrub Tiles and Grout: Use a grout cleaner to remove any buildup and maintain the shine of your tiles.
• Disinfect the Toilet: Clean the inside and outside of the toilet thoroughly.
• Wash Bath Mats and Towels: Regularly wash bath mats and towels to keep them fresh and free of bacteria.

Monthly maintenance routines are essential for tackling tasks that don’t need weekly attention but are still crucial for long-term upkeep. These tasks help prevent minor issues from turning into major problems.

Kitchen Monthly Maintenance Tips:

• Check for Leaks: Inspect under sinks and around appliances for any signs of leaks or water damage.
• Clean Exhaust Fans: Remove and clean the filters in your kitchen exhaust fan to maintain proper ventilation.
• Organize Pantry: Check expiration dates and organize your pantry to keep it neat and functional.

Bathroom Monthly Maintenance Tips:

• Inspect Caulking: Check the caulking around your bathtub, shower, and sinks for any cracks or gaps and reseal if necessary.
• Clean Drains: Use a drain cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to keep drains clear and prevent clogs.
• Ventilation Check: Ensure your bathroom fan is working correctly to prevent mold and mildew buildup.

Seasonal maintenance is crucial for addressing tasks that vary throughout the year, ensuring your kitchen and bath remain in excellent condition regardless of the season.

Spring and Summer Tips:

• Inspect Plumbing: Check all plumbing fixtures for leaks or drips and repair as needed.
• Window Cleaning: Clean the inside and outside of windows to let in more natural light and improve the look of your spaces.
• Deep Clean Cabinets: Empty cabinets and drawers, wipe them down, and reorganize as necessary.

Fall and Winter Tips:

• Prepare for Cold Weather: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and potential bursts.
• Check Water Heater: Ensure your water heater is functioning correctly and adjust the temperature if needed.
• Seal Drafts: Check for drafts around windows and doors and seal any gaps to maintain energy efficiency.

Different countertop materials require specific maintenance to keep them looking their best. Here are tips for caring for various types of countertops:

Granite Countertops:

• Daily Cleaning: Wipe with a soft cloth and mild soap.
• Sealing: Reseal granite countertops annually to maintain their resistance to stains and scratches.

Quartz Countertops:

• Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Use non-abrasive cleaners to prevent surface damage.
• Prevent Heat Damage: Use trivets or hot pads under hot pots and pans to avoid damaging the surface.

Marble Countertops:

• Immediate Spill Cleanup: Clean spills immediately to prevent staining.
• Polishing: Periodically polish marble countertops to maintain their shine.

Proper appliance maintenance ensures they continue to function efficiently and last longer.

Refrigerator:

• Clean Coils: Vacuum the coils at least twice a year to maintain energy efficiency.
• Check Seals: Ensure the door seals are tight to prevent cold air from escaping.

Oven and Stovetop:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean spills and food debris immediately to prevent buildup.
• Inspect Burners: Check that burners are functioning correctly and clean them regularly.

Dishwasher:

• Clean Filter: Remove and clean the filter monthly to ensure efficient operation.
• Run Cleaning Cycle: Use a dishwasher cleaner once a month to remove mineral deposits and buildup.

Regular maintenance of your bathroom fixtures and hardware keeps them looking new and functioning correctly.

Faucets and Showerheads:

• Descale: Remove mineral deposits by soaking faucets and showerheads in vinegar.
• Lubricate: Periodically lubricate moving parts to prevent stiffness and leaks.

Toilets:

• Inspect for Leaks: Check the base and tank for any signs of leaks.
• Adjust Flapper: Ensure the flapper is sealing properly to prevent continuous running.

Cabinet Hardware:

• Tighten Screws: Check and tighten any loose screws on cabinet doors and drawers.
• Clean Handles: Regularly clean handles and knobs to maintain their finish.

Different types of flooring require specific care to keep them in excellent condition.

Hardwood Floors:

• Sweep Regularly: Remove dirt and debris with a soft broom or vacuum.
• Refinish as Needed: Refinish hardwood floors periodically to maintain their luster.

Tile Floors:

• Clean Grout: Use a grout cleaner to keep grout lines looking fresh.
• Replace Cracked Tiles: Replace any cracked or damaged tiles to prevent further issues.

Vinyl and Laminate Floors:

• Avoid Excess Water: Use a damp mop for cleaning and avoid excessive water to prevent damage.
• Use Protective Pads: Place protective pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.

Taking preventative measures can save you time and money in the long run by avoiding potential issues.

Waterproofing:

• Seal Surfaces: Seal grout lines, countertops, and other surfaces to protect against water damage.
• Install Water Alarms: Place water alarms near potential leak sources to catch issues early.

Pest Control:

• Regular Inspections: Check for signs of pests and address any issues promptly.
• Seal Entry Points: Ensure there are no gaps or cracks where pests can enter your home.

Sometimes, professional maintenance is necessary to keep your remodeled spaces in top shape.

Regular Inspections:

• Hire Experts: Have professionals inspect your kitchen and bath annually to catch and fix issues early.
• Specialized Cleaning: Use professional cleaning services for deep cleaning tasks that require specialized equipment or expertise.

Service Agreements:

• Consider Agreements: Look into service agreements with contractors like Eastside Kitchen & Bath for ongoing maintenance and support.

Maintaining your remodeled kitchen and bath is essential to preserve their beauty and functionality. By following these maintenance tips, you can enjoy your upgraded spaces for many years. Regular cleaning, preventative measures, and professional help when needed will ensure your kitchen and bath remain in pristine condition. At Eastside Kitchen & Bath in Kirkland, WA, we’re here to support you with expert advice and services for all your remodeling and maintenance needs.