home improvement

The COS-DIS6502 Built-In Dishwasher: Hidden Controls for a Sleek Kitchen Design

Posted on June 12, 2025June 16, 2025Posted in ProductsTagged 24 inch dishwasher, appliance installation, appliance upgrade, built-in dishwasher, contemporary kitchen, COS-DIS6502, dish cleaning, dishwasher buying guide, dishwasher features, dishwasher installation, energy efficient dishwasher, Featured, hidden control dishwasher, home improvement, kitchen appliances, kitchen design, kitchen efficiency, kitchen renovation, modern dishwasher, Quiet Dishwasher, stainless steel dishwasherNo Comments

Modern kitchens demand appliances that combine powerful performance with clean, streamlined aesthetics. The COS-DIS6502 built-in dishwasher delivers exactly that with its hidden top control panel design that creates a seamless look while providing the cleaning power busy families need. This 24-inch dishwasher proves that you don’t have to sacrifice functionality for style when choosing kitchen appliances. Hidden control dishwashers have become increasingly popular because they offer a sophisticated appearance that works with any kitchen design. When the dishwasher door is closed, you see only clean stainless steel without visible buttons or displays interrupting the smooth lines. This design approach creates a more integrated, custom look that many homeowners prefer over traditional front-control models. Why Hidden Controls Make a Difference The hidden top control design of the COS-DIS6502 creates a clean, uninterrupted appearance that works beautifully in modern kitchens. When the dishwasher is closed, nothing identifies it as anything other than a sleek cabinet panel. This seamless integration helps create the custom, built-in look that makes kitchens feel more expensive and professionally designed. Hidden controls also prevent accidental activation by children or pets. Since the control panel is only accessible when the door is open, there’s no risk of curious hands changing settings or accidentally starting a wash cycle. This safety feature gives parents peace of mind while maintaining the dishwasher’s sophisticated appearance. The controls themselves are positioned at the top of the door where they’re easy to reach when loading dishes but completely out of sight during normal use. This placement keeps the interface convenient while maintaining the clean aesthetic that makes hidden control models so appealing. Professional kitchens and high-end homes have used hidden control appliances for years because they create a more streamlined, intentional appearance. Now this same design approach is available at accessible price points, bringing professional aesthetics to everyday kitchens. Four Wash Cycles for Different Cleaning Needs The COS-DIS6502 offers four distinct wash cycles designed to handle various soil levels and dish types effectively. Having multiple cycle options means you can customize cleaning based on what you’re washing, which improves results while potentially saving water and energy. The normal cycle handles everyday loads with moderate soil levels. This cycle works well for dishes used for typical family meals, providing thorough cleaning without excessive water or energy use. Most households find the normal cycle meets their needs for daily dishwashing tasks. Heavy or pots and pans cycles tackle stubborn, baked-on food and heavily soiled items. These cycles use higher water temperatures and extended wash times to break down tough soil that normal cycles might not fully remove. Use these cycles for roasting pans, casserole dishes, and cookware with stuck-on food. Quick or express cycles clean lightly soiled dishes in less time, perfect for dishes that just need freshening up or when you need clean dishes quickly. These cycles work well for plates and glasses from light meals or when you’re entertaining and need to turn dishes around quickly. Eco or energy-saving cycles use lower temperatures and less water while extending wash times to achieve good cleaning results with reduced environmental impact. These cycles take longer but can significantly reduce utility costs over time, making them ideal for households focused on efficiency. Capacity That Handles Real Family Loads With 12 place settings capacity, the COS-DIS6502 accommodates typical family dinner loads comfortably. This capacity means you can fit dinner dishes for a family of four to six people in one load, including plates, bowls, glasses, utensils, and serving pieces. The interior layout maximizes space efficiency through smart rack design and adjustable components. Upper and lower racks are configured to hold various dish sizes and shapes, from large dinner plates to delicate wine glasses. Fold-down tines in the top rack create flexibility for loading different items. You can fold tines down to accommodate larger items like mixing bowls or serving platters, then return them to upright positions for regular dish loads. The silverware basket provides organized storage for utensils while ensuring proper water circulation for thorough cleaning. The basket design prevents utensils from nesting together, which can prevent proper cleaning and sanitizing. Loading efficiency improves when you understand how to maximize the available space. Face soiled surfaces toward the center where spray arms can reach them effectively, and avoid overcrowding that prevents proper water circulation. Stainless Steel Construction for Durability The stainless steel interior and exterior construction provides both durability and attractive appearance. Stainless steel resists stains, odors, and corrosion better than plastic alternatives while maintaining its appearance over years of use. The stainless steel finish coordinates beautifully with other kitchen appliances, creating a cohesive look that enhances your kitchen’s overall design. This finish works with both contemporary and traditional kitchen styles while providing long-term durability. Interior stainless steel surfaces are easier to clean and maintain than plastic tubs. Food particles and grease don’t adhere as strongly to stainless steel, and the smooth surface rinses clean more easily during wash cycles. The material choice also contributes to better drying performance. Stainless steel retains and releases heat more effectively than plastic, which helps dishes dry more thoroughly at the end of wash cycles. Stainless steel construction typically lasts longer than plastic alternatives, making it a smart long-term investment. The material resists wear, maintains its appearance, and continues performing effectively even with daily use over many years. User-Friendly Features for Daily Convenience The control lock feature prevents accidental changes to wash settings once you’ve started a cycle. This safety feature is particularly valuable in households with children who might be tempted to press buttons on appliances. Activating the control lock is typically a simple process involving pressing and holding specific buttons for a few seconds. Once locked, the controls won’t respond to button presses until you unlock them using the same process. The lock feature also prevents accidental interruption of wash cycles. Family members can’t accidentally cancel a running cycle or change settings mid-wash, ensuring your dishes get properly cleaned. Clear indicators show when the control lock is active, so you

Open Concept Kitchen Layouts: Pros, Cons, and Design Tips for Modern Homes

Posted on June 11, 2025June 11, 2025Posted in KitchenTagged architectural design, contemporary kitchen, entertaining kitchen, family kitchen, home design, home improvement, home renovation, interior Design, kitchen design trends, kitchen island design, kitchen layout design, kitchen lighting, kitchen planning, kitchen remodeling, kitchen renovation, kitchen storage, kitchen ventilation, modern kitchen layouts, open concept kitchen, open floor planNo Comments

Open concept kitchen layouts have dominated home design for the past two decades, and for good reason. By removing walls between the kitchen, dining room, and living areas, these layouts create flowing spaces that feel larger and more connected. However, open concept designs aren’t perfect for every family or home. Understanding the advantages and challenges helps you decide whether this popular layout works for your lifestyle and how to make it successful if you choose to go this route. The appeal of open concept living is easy to understand. These layouts promote family interaction, make entertaining easier, and can make smaller homes feel more spacious. But they also come with trade-offs that many homeowners don’t consider until after renovation. Smart planning and thoughtful design choices can maximize the benefits while minimizing the drawbacks. The Major Advantages of Open Concept Kitchens Open concept layouts excel at bringing families together and creating a sense of spaciousness that traditional closed kitchens can’t match. When you remove walls between the kitchen and adjacent rooms, you immediately create visual connections that make the entire space feel larger and more welcoming. Family interaction improves dramatically with open layouts. Parents can cook dinner while helping children with homework at the dining table or keeping an eye on kids playing in the living room. The cook becomes part of family activities rather than isolated in a separate room, which many families find makes daily life more enjoyable. Entertaining becomes much easier when your kitchen opens into living and dining areas. You can prepare food while talking with guests, and the kitchen becomes part of the party rather than a place where the host disappears for long periods. Large gatherings flow naturally between spaces without feeling cramped or divided. Natural light spreads throughout the connected spaces, making everything feel brighter and more cheerful. Windows in one area help illuminate adjacent spaces, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day and creating a more pleasant environment overall. The sight lines created by open layouts let you keep track of children, pets, and activities throughout the main living areas. This supervision ability gives parents peace of mind while allowing kids more freedom to move between spaces. Open layouts also offer more flexibility for furniture arrangement and traffic flow. You can create distinct zones within the larger space while maintaining the open feeling that makes these layouts so appealing. The Challenges You Need to Consider While open concept kitchens offer many benefits, they also create challenges that can significantly impact daily life. Understanding these potential problems helps you plan solutions or decide whether a different layout might work better for your family. Cooking smells and sounds travel throughout the entire open space. When you’re frying fish or cooking with garlic, those aromas will reach the living and dining areas. Kitchen noises from blenders, dishwashers, and food processors can interfere with television watching or conversations in adjacent areas. Kitchen messes become visible from throughout the main living areas. Dirty dishes, food preparation chaos, and general kitchen clutter can’t be hidden behind a closed door. This visibility means you need to keep the kitchen clean more consistently or accept that messes are part of the overall living space appearance. Temperature control becomes more challenging in open layouts. Cooking heat spreads throughout the connected areas, potentially making living spaces uncomfortable during summer cooking sessions. Air conditioning and heating systems must work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures in the larger, connected space. Privacy and noise separation disappear with open layouts. Family members can’t escape to quiet spaces when someone is cooking, and different activities happening simultaneously can create noise conflicts. Phone calls, homework, and relaxation all compete with kitchen sounds. Decorating becomes more complex when you need to coordinate colors, styles, and materials across multiple functional areas. The kitchen design must work harmoniously with living and dining room furniture and décor, which can limit your choices and increase coordination challenges. Design Strategies That Make Open Layouts Work Better Successful open concept kitchens require thoughtful design strategies that address the inherent challenges while maximizing the benefits. Smart planning can help you enjoy the openness while maintaining functionality and comfort. Create visual separation without walls using different flooring materials, ceiling treatments, or furniture placement. You might use tile in the kitchen area and hardwood in the living space, or define the kitchen with a distinctive ceiling treatment like exposed beams or a coffered design. Kitchen islands serve multiple purposes in open layouts, providing workspace, storage, and visual separation between the kitchen and adjacent areas. A well-designed island can define the kitchen space while offering seating that connects to the living area. Strategic lighting helps define different zones within the open space. Pendant lights over the kitchen island, recessed lighting in the kitchen work areas, and different lighting in the living areas can create distinct atmospheres while maintaining the open feeling. Consistent color palettes tie the spaces together visually while allowing for subtle variations that define different areas. You might use the same neutral base colors throughout while adding different accent colors in each zone. Careful appliance selection becomes crucial in open layouts since everything is visible and audible. Quiet dishwashers, powerful but quiet range hoods, and appliances with attractive designs become more important when they’re part of the overall living space. Kitchen Islands: The Heart of Open Concept Design Kitchen islands have become essential elements in most open concept layouts, serving as the bridge between the kitchen and adjacent living areas. A well-designed island provides workspace, storage, and social connection while helping define the kitchen boundaries within the larger space. Size your island appropriately for the space and your needs. Too large and it overwhelms the area or interferes with traffic flow. Too small and it doesn’t provide enough function or visual weight to anchor the kitchen space. Most designers recommend at least 36 inches of clearance on all sides for comfortable movement. Multi-level islands can provide separation between messy kitchen work and clean social areas.

Essential Kitchen Appliances Every Home Chef Needs: Building Your Dream Cooking Space

Posted on June 5, 2025June 8, 2025Posted in Appliances 101Tagged appliance buying guide, appliance selection, cooking appliances, cooking enthusiast, cooking equipment, cooking tools, culinary equipment, essential appliances, home chef, home cooking, home improvement, kitchen appliances, kitchen design, kitchen essentials, kitchen planning, kitchen remodel, kitchen renovation, kitchen technology, kitchen upgrade, modern kitchenNo Comments

Creating the perfect kitchen starts with choosing the right appliances. Whether you’re moving into your first home, renovating an existing kitchen, or simply upgrading your cooking setup, knowing which appliances are truly essential can save you time, money, and frustration. Today’s home chefs have access to amazing technology that makes cooking easier, faster, and more enjoyable than ever before. Building a functional kitchen doesn’t mean you need every gadget on the market. Smart planning and careful selection of key appliances will give you everything you need to create delicious meals while staying within your budget. Let’s explore the must-have appliances that form the foundation of any serious home kitchen. The Range: Your Kitchen’s Powerhouse Every great kitchen starts with a reliable range. This single appliance handles most of your daily cooking needs, combining a cooktop and oven in one efficient unit. Modern ranges offer incredible versatility, whether you prefer the precise control of gas burners or the consistent heat of electric cooking. Gas ranges provide instant heat control that professional chefs love. You can adjust flame levels immediately, making them perfect for techniques like stir-frying or searing. Electric ranges, on the other hand, offer more even heating and are often easier to clean. Many home cooks find electric ovens provide more consistent baking results. Dual-fuel ranges combine the best of both worlds with gas cooktops and electric ovens. These units give you the responsive control of gas for stovetop cooking plus the even heating of electric for baking and roasting. While they cost more initially, many serious home cooks consider them worth the investment. Size matters when choosing a range. Standard 30-inch models work well for most families, while larger 36-inch or 48-inch ranges provide extra burners and oven space for those who cook frequently or entertain often. Consider your cooking habits and kitchen layout when making this decision. Range Hoods: The Unsung Heroes of Kitchen Ventilation Many people overlook range hoods when planning their kitchen, but proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining air quality and preventing grease buildup. Good ventilation removes smoke, odors, and moisture that cooking produces, keeping your kitchen comfortable and your home’s air clean. Under-cabinet range hoods work well in most kitchens, mounting beneath existing cabinets to save space. Wall-mount hoods create a striking focal point while providing powerful ventilation. For kitchen islands, dedicated island range hoods suspend from the ceiling to capture cooking byproducts effectively. Look for range hoods with multiple fan speeds so you can adjust suction based on what you’re cooking. LED lighting helps illuminate your cooking surface, while dishwasher-safe filters make maintenance simple. Noise levels matter too – nobody wants to shout over a loud range hood during dinner preparation. The key is matching your range hood size to your cooktop. A 30-inch cooktop needs at least a 30-inch hood, though going slightly larger often provides better coverage. For high-output gas ranges, consider hoods with higher CFM ratings to handle the extra heat and moisture. Refrigerators: Keeping Your Ingredients Fresh Your refrigerator works harder than any other kitchen appliance, running 24/7 to keep your food fresh and safe. Modern refrigerators offer features that make meal planning and food storage much easier than older models. French door refrigerators have become incredibly popular because they provide easy access to fresh foods at eye level while keeping frozen items in convenient bottom drawers. Side-by-side models work well in narrower kitchens where you can’t open wide doors fully. Size your refrigerator based on your household needs and kitchen space. A family of four typically needs 20-25 cubic feet of storage, though cooking enthusiasts often want more space for ingredients and leftovers. Counter-depth models provide a built-in look that many homeowners prefer, even though they offer slightly less storage space. Energy efficiency has improved dramatically in recent years. Look for ENERGY STAR certified models that will save money on utility bills over time. Features like adjustable shelves, humidity-controlled crisper drawers, and door alarms add convenience to daily use. Built-in ice makers and water dispensers are convenient but take up interior space. Consider whether these features are worth the trade-off in storage capacity for your family’s needs. Dishwashers: Making Cleanup Effortless A quality dishwasher transforms kitchen cleanup from a chore into a simple task. Modern dishwashers clean dishes more effectively while using less water than hand washing, making them both convenient and environmentally friendly. Standard 24-inch dishwashers fit most kitchen layouts and handle typical family loads well. Compact 18-inch models work in smaller kitchens or as secondary units in large homes. Some manufacturers offer dishwasher drawers that can run independently, perfect for small loads or homes with varying dishwashing needs. Noise levels have improved significantly in recent dishwashers. Look for models rated at 44 decibels or lower for quiet operation that won’t interfere with conversations or television watching. Stainless steel interiors resist stains and odors better than plastic tubs. Multiple wash cycles let you customize cleaning based on soil levels and dish types. Quick wash cycles handle lightly soiled items in 30 minutes or less, while heavy-duty cycles tackle baked-on food. Some models include specialized cycles for wine glasses or sanitizing baby bottles. Flexible loading features like adjustable racks and fold-down tines help you fit dishes of various sizes. Third racks provide extra space for utensils and small items, maximizing capacity in each load. Microwaves: Quick Cooking and Reheating Microwaves handle quick cooking tasks and reheating leftovers efficiently. While not essential for cooking from scratch, they’re incredibly convenient for busy households and specific cooking techniques. Countertop microwaves offer the most flexibility and are usually the most affordable option. Over-the-range microwaves save counter space while providing built-in ventilation for your cooktop. Built-in models create a seamless look but require dedicated cabinet space. Microwave drawers represent the latest innovation, sliding out from beneath counters for easy access. They’re particularly useful for universal design kitchens or homes where counter space is limited. Power levels matter more than you might think. Higher wattage models (1000+ watts) cook more evenly and quickly

Transform Your Kitchen Island Into a Culinary Masterpiece with the COS-668ICS900 Island Range Hood

Posted on June 4, 2025June 8, 2025Posted in ProductsTagged ARC-FLOW filtration, ceiling mount hood, cooking ventilation, COS-668ICS900, culinary equipment, glass canopy hood, home improvement, island range hood, kitchen appliances, kitchen design, kitchen island exhaust, kitchen remodel, kitchen upgrade, kitchen ventilation, LED range hood lighting, modern range hood, permanent filters, premium range hood, soft touch controls, stainless steel range hoodNo Comments

Your kitchen island needs more than just basic ventilation. When you’re cooking big meals or having friends over, you need a range hood that combines powerful performance with great looks. The COS-668ICS900 Island Range Hood gives you exactly that, function and style that makes your whole cooking space better. Why Island Range Hoods Are Essential for Modern Kitchens Kitchen islands have become the center of home design, working as prep areas, dining spaces, and gathering spots all at once. But cooking on an island creates ventilation problems. Without proper exhaust, smoke, grease, and cooking smells spread through your entire home. Wall-mounted hoods won’t work for island setups, making dedicated island range hoods absolutely necessary. The COS-668ICS900 handles these problems with ceiling-mounted design that catches cooking byproducts right where they start. This 36-inch unit keeps your kitchen air clean and fresh, no matter what you’re cooking. Glass Design That Looks Amazing The COS-668ICS900 stands out because of its glass canopy design. The sleek glass visor adds modern style that turns your range hood from just a functional appliance into an eye-catching centerpiece. The glass design also makes cleaning easier while spreading light evenly across your cooking surface. The contemporary look works with both traditional and modern kitchen designs. Whether your kitchen has marble countertops and subway tiles or bold colors and geometric patterns, this range hood fits your existing style while adding its own personality. Premium Construction for Long-Lasting Performance Quality construction forms the foundation of every Cosmo appliance, and the COS-668ICS900 shows this commitment. Built with premium 430-grade stainless steel at 20-gauge thickness, this range hood handles daily use while keeping its great appearance. The strong construction means years of reliable performance, making it a smart buy for any serious home cook. The included backdraft damper stops outside air from entering your kitchen when the hood’s not running. This feature helps your home’s climate control work better while protecting your kitchen from outside odors and contaminants. ARC-FLOW Permanent Filtration System One of the best features of the COS-668ICS900 is its ARC-FLOW permanent filtration system. These high-quality stainless steel filters catch grease and cooking odors effectively, keeping your kitchen air clean and fresh. Unlike disposable filters that need constant replacement, these permanent filters work unlimited times and are completely dishwasher-safe. This filtration system saves you money over time while reducing waste. Simply remove the filters when they need cleaning, run them through your dishwasher, and put them back for continued peak performance. The convenience alone makes this range hood worth considering for busy households. Powerful Yet Quiet Operation The COS-668ICS900 has three fan speeds that adjust to match your cooking needs. Whether you’re simmering delicate sauces or searing steaks at high heat, you can pick the right suction level to handle cooking byproducts effectively. The variable speed control means you’re not wasting energy on maximum power when gentle ventilation works fine. Despite its powerful performance, this range hood runs quietly enough to keep conversations going during cooking. You won’t need to shout over excessive noise, making it perfect for open-concept homes where the kitchen connects to living and dining areas. Brilliant LED Lighting System Proper task lighting is crucial for safe and efficient cooking, and the COS-668ICS900 delivers with four strategically positioned LED lights. These energy-efficient bulbs provide excellent lighting across your entire cooking surface, removing shadows and dark spots that can interfere with food preparation. LED technology offers several advantages over traditional incandescent bulbs. They last much longer, use less energy, and generate minimal heat. This means lower utility bills and fewer bulb replacements, plus your kitchen stays cooler during extended cooking sessions. Soft Touch Controls for Modern Convenience The intuitive soft touch control panel makes operating the COS-668ICS900 simple. Clean, responsive controls let you adjust fan speeds and lighting with simple touches. The smooth control surface is easy to clean and won’t collect grease or grime like traditional mechanical switches. This modern control system improves the overall user experience while maintaining the hood’s sleek look. No protruding knobs or buttons interrupt the clean lines of the design. Installation Flexibility for Various Kitchen Layouts The COS-668ICS900 is designed for island mount installation, hanging from your ceiling to cover cooking surfaces positioned away from walls. The included 3-prong power cord simplifies electrical connections, and the unit works with various ceiling heights with appropriate mounting hardware. Professional installation ensures optimal performance and safety, though the straightforward design makes installation relatively simple for qualified technicians. Proper installation also ensures your warranty remains valid and your range hood operates at peak efficiency. Energy Efficiency Meets Performance Modern homeowners increasingly want energy efficiency, and the COS-668ICS900 delivers. The LED lighting system uses minimal electricity while providing superior lighting. The efficient motor design provides powerful ventilation without excessive energy consumption. This efficiency translates to lower operating costs over the hood’s lifetime. When you combine energy savings with the durability of permanent filters, the COS-668ICS900 offers excellent long-term value. Perfect Sizing for Standard Kitchen Islands At 36 inches wide, the COS-668ICS900 provides ideal coverage for most kitchen islands without overwhelming smaller spaces. This size strikes the perfect balance between effective ventilation coverage and proportional looks. The hood captures cooking byproducts from standard cooktop configurations while maintaining visual harmony with your island’s dimensions. Maintenance Made Simple Keeping the COS-668ICS900 in peak condition requires minimal effort. The stainless steel construction resists fingerprints and cleans easily with standard stainless steel cleaners. The glass canopy wipes clean with standard glass cleaners, maintaining its crystal-clear appearance. Regular filter cleaning in your dishwasher keeps the ventilation system operating efficiently. The simple maintenance requirements mean you can focus on cooking rather than appliance upkeep. Why Choose Cosmo for Your Kitchen Ventilation Needs Cosmo Appliances has built a reputation for delivering professional-quality kitchen appliances at accessible prices. Our commitment to looks, innovation, and functionality ensures every product improves your cooking experience while complementing your kitchen’s design. The COS-668ICS900 represents everything we stand for – premium construction, thoughtful design, and reliable performance. When you choose

Spring Cleaning 101: 6 Easy Steps to Clean Your Refrigerator

Posted on March 19, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in Home, How-To, KitchenTagged home improvement, kitchen, kitchen decor, refrigerator, springNo Comments

Spring cleaning your refrigerator is about more than tossing old stuff and restocking it with fresh food. There’s more involved than just that, you’ll need to deodorize and disinfect, then take steps to ensure your refrigerator runs well and use less energy. Follow these 6 simple steps to clear it out, clean it up and restock the fridge. Gather your Supplies: Here’s what you’ll need Old towel for floor Bucket Baking soda Paper towels or rags Sponges, dishcloths or rags Toothbrush Multi-purpose surface spray Cooler Trash bags Vacuum Turn Off the Refrigerator To conserve energy it’s a good idea to turn your refrigerator off unless you have removable shelves and you’re good about keeping the door shut, then it’s okay to keep it plugged in. It’s safer to have the fridge unplugged when dusting the coils and cleaning the drip pan. If you can’t easily move the fridge or access the plug, turn off the circuit breaker that serves the refrigerator. Empty the Refrigerator The refrigerator completely of all items. Put any perishables like milk and meat in a cooler and leave other items on the counter. Do not leave food out for more than an hour. Go through the contents of your refrigerator and remove all expired or spoiled food. Compost old produce and recycle containers when possible. Clean the Removable Refrigerator Parts Take out all the removable shelves, drawers and door inserts; you can clean them more thoroughly when they’re outside the fridge, and this gives you better access to clean the inside of the refrigerator. Mix fragrance-free dish soap with warm water in the sink. Wash the items with a dish soap sponge, as you would hand-wash dishes. Once the removable parts are washed make sure they are completely dry before putting them back in place. Clean the Inside The good news is there’s a variety of cleaning solutions you can use to clean the interior of the fridge. While the choices for what you can clean with are flexible, we recommend making your solution instead of a harsh cleaning spray. You can use baking soda and water mix (1 tablespoon of baking powder per cup of water) or a mild soap and water mix to wash the counters and bins. Thoroughly wash the built-in fixtures, the bottom of the fridge, and be sure you get in the cracks. An old toothbrush is handy for the nooks and crannies. Wipe the inside of the freezer just as you did in the fridge. Wash ice cube trays and replace the ice with fresh water. Thin rags are great for cleaning the rubber seal around the door- one of the grimiest areas of the fridge where crumbs and debris end up. Clean the Outside The exterior of your fridge use microfiber cloths to clean, they’re great at eliminating the streaks and fingerprints on stainless steel. Carefully pull the fridge out from the wall, then vacuum the coils to remove dust that’s collected. Keeping your coils dirt-free can help your fridge run better. If your fridge has a drip tray, remove it and clean it like you did the shelves and place it back. Refrigerator Cleaning Hacks To absorb odors, keep a box of open baking soda in the fridge — don’t forget to replace it every one to three months. Wipe stainless steel in the direction of the grain. Clean your fridge right before a big grocery shop.Clean shelves and drawers in the dishwasher. Tell us: Do you do spring cleaning?

The Ultimate Kitchen Spring Cleaning To-Do List

Posted on March 12, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in Home, How-To, KitchenTagged home improvement, kitchen, kitchen decor, springNo Comments

Spring is here! Warmer weather, longer days, and thanks to that extra dose of Vitamin-D we’re feeling more energetic. It’s the perfect time for some spring cleaning and we’re ready to make our homes sparkle and shine! The kitchen is one room in the house that gets messy fast, and since it’s our favorite room, that’s where we’ll start our spring refresh. Here’s a simple deep cleaning step-by-step routine for the kitchen. Having an order in which to clean your kitchen makes getting the job done much simpler and faster. Everything seems easier when you have a plan. PRE-CLEAN: Wash, dry and put dirty dishes away any. Quickly clear counter tops and wipe clean. Clear any clutter that does not belong in the kitchen. Determine if you need new kitchen supplies. Clean under the sink and eliminate the unnecessary. Clean and organize plastic ware and storage containers. GATHER KITCHEN CLEANING MATERIALS Get all of your kitchen cleaning materials so you have everything on hand. Running around looking for cleaning supplies e.g. cloths, sponges etc. wastes time. Here’s a list of suggested items you might need: Sponges. Cleaning cloths. Gloves. Toothbrush. All-purpose, non-abrasive cleaner. Stainless steel cleaner, if you have stainless steel appliances. Glass cleaner. Lysol wipes. Caddy or basket for cleaning supplies. Telescoping duster. Steam mop or conventional mop and bucket. Vacuum or broom and dustpan Empty basket or box. PANTRY When you’re getting things organized in the kitchen the pantry is one area that needs some special attention. To begin, check labels and toss expired, stale and empty items also, go through and top up old herbs and spices. Consider donating unopened items that you won’t use before they expire. Wipe down all shelves with soapy water or kitchen cleaner. After wiping down the shelves, create a separate area for open items, arrange like items together with the oldest items in front; newest in back. MICROWAVE Simply, place a bowl filled with water and slices of lemon into the microwave and heat for 5 minutes. The lemon water boils like a sauna, loosening up all the caked on bits. The inside of your microwave gets dirty with splatters and splashes but cleaning it is “easy peasy lemon squeezy” with this cleaning hack. THE FRIDGE Like the Pantry, the refrigerator gets filled up quickly so first thing to do is go through the contents of your refrigerator and remove all expired or spoiled food. Wipe down the shelves with a soft rag and a non-abrasive all-purpose cleaning agent. Work from top to bottom. Place the crisper drawer in the sink to soak, if you need to. If not, just wipe it out and replace it. For a deep clean, unplug the fridge, pull it out, sweep and mop. Finish with a new box of baking soda stuffed in the back. STOVETOP No kitchen spring clean is complete if you don’t tackle the stovetop. Using a dry cloth, brush loose crumbs to the ground. Remove the grates, if your stove has them, and wipe the stovetop with a non-abrasive cleaning agent. OTHER APPLIANCES Clean and/or polish exterior of dishwasher. For the interior of your oven follow the manufacturer’s instructions to run self-cleaning cycle, if you don’t have this feature Baking soda and vinegar will do the trick. Then clean and polish the exterior of oven. Don’t forget to clean your small countertop appliances, e.g. coffee maker, toaster and toaster oven. CLEAN SINK, COUNTERTOP & CABINETS Free counter space is hard real estate to come by, especially in a smaller kitchen, so get rid of all the clutter from countertops first; try to get them as clear as possible, including countertop appliances. Only keep items out that you use regularly. Spray countertops with kitchen cleaner and wipe them clean. Tip! to make granite shine you can use glass cleaner. Wipe down cabinet exteriors and polish wood cabinet doors with furniture polish. Remember to clean inside cabinets and drawers, they tend to gather dust and crumbs. FLOORS Start by removing any movable furniture, then sweep the entire floor. Spot clean sticky or dirty areas with stains. Mop the floor with a heavy duty floor cleaner or use a solution of equal parts vinegar and hot water. The vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant and odor remover. THE WALLS Wipe down the walls, determine if the walls need spot washing in dirty spots don’t forget to clean air vents, doorknobs, doors, and switch plates. DUST Use a telescoping duster and dust the entire kitchen, starting up high and working your way down. Don’t forget light fixtures, the top of cabinets and the fridge. LINENS You may regularly launder your dish towels, but things like runners, oven mitts, and aprons get overlooked, so this is a good opportunity to throw them in the washing machine. GARBAGE DISPOSAL This spot is generally full of germs and can emit all sorts of odors! Give it a thorough flush with hot water, ice cubes, and lemon peels. THE SINK Fill your sink with hot soapy water and pour in 1 cup bleach. Let stand for about an hour, then empty and scrub clean using a paste made from water and baking soda. Rinse well. EMPTY TRASH Finally, wipe down the outside of the bin and lid. Lysol wipes are excellent for this purpose. Place a fresh garbage bag in the bin. FINAL TOUCHES You’re all done! Your kitchen is spotless and boy, does it sparkle! Now add pretty touches with these quick and easy fresh Spring decor ideas. Because kitchen countertops are already at a premium to make the most of your décor, use a tray or cake stand to display smaller decorative items. Remember to include soft spring colors and fruit & flowers of the season are perfect counter pieces. We like fresh flowers and greenery because they look amazing on a kitchen counter. Other decorative pieces we like are wooden cutting boards, you can lean them against your backsplash or stack them under decorative pieces.

Trending Upgrades for Functional Kitchen Style

Posted on July 12, 2019October 14, 2020Posted in Home, How-To, KitchenTagged home improvement, kitchen, kitchen deco, remodelNo Comments

The kitchen, or as we see it –the heart of the home is likely the center of daily life and a place where both form and function are of the utmost importance for passionate cooks, seasoned hosts and busy families alike. Colorful allure The kitchen has a significant influence on the rest of the house, especially if the home has more of an open-concept layout. If you are redesigning your home the kitchen is a good place to start. The colors and materials used in the kitchen can really set the tone for the rest of the home. The kitchen, or as we see it –the heart of the home is likely the center of daily life and a place where both form and function are of the utmost importance for passionate cooks, seasoned hosts and busy families alike. When it comes to considerations like finish and materials, kitchen cabinet trends are seeing a swing towards refreshing bold colors. Matte Everything Speaking of finishes … matte black entered the scene as a force to be reckoned. Whether you have a traditional, contemporary or modern design aesthetic, black cabinets, kitchen islands and back splashes are all pretty versatile. Leave the glossy finish behind in 2018 and opt instead for this cooler, more modern look. It’s chic and fashionable and it’s broken through the ultra “glam” vibe and added some much-needed modernity, even in more traditional spaces. Matte black is a trend we love to see stick around. Focus on Function A beautiful kitchen may please the eye, but when it comes down to it, a kitchen’s function is its greatest value. For 2019, kitchens will blend form and function. Technology will become increasingly present, helping to make day to day life a little easier. Integrate these ideas for a kitchen that offers a maximum function for one of your home’s most-used spaces. Declutter the counter tops. Consider incorporating pull-out and roll-out trays into your cabinetry to maximize your storage space, as well as dressing your cabinets with appropriate inserts and organizational kits. Eliminate wasted space by adding corner cabinets to utilize all your available space. Determine the island’s function. The island is often the visual centerpiece of the kitchen, but determining its function can maximize its benefit. Fully functional cabinetry around the island can provide added storage space. For example, custom cabinetry appliance panels let you not only conceal bulky appliances, but they also give your wall cabinets more space and functionality. Make recycling easy. Place the recycle and garbage bins in a drawer near the sink to allow for easier accessibility and keep them out of sight. A final note, before you take the leap into upgrading your kitchen ask yourself what your goals are, what’s missing from your current kitchen design, and what you’d like to see go? A well-thought-out project is a well-executed project, so take your time to properly plan.