Do you think that your less-than-immaculate oven won't affect your move-out inspection? You'd better give it a second thought—unclean appliances are why UK tenants receive deposit deductions at the end of their tenancy. Daily cleaning is rarely sufficient for your landlord, and professional appliance cleaning is vital to pass your final inspection. Whether you're a tenant determined to get your entire deposit back, a landlord or letting agent eager to re-rent the property, our guide will give you a detailed look at how expert cleaners achieve pristine ovens, fridges, dishwashers and other appliances. Are you ready?
Key takeaways
- Unclean appliances are a leading cause of deposit deductions - Cleaning problems represent around 50% of all deposit disputes in the UK, and appliances are scrutinised during final inspections.
- Ovens require specialised cleaning techniques - Professional oven cleaning involves dismantling components, using commercial-grade degreasers, and precise scrubbing methods.
- Fridge cleaning goes beyond surface wiping - Professionals thoroughly defrost, sanitise, clean hidden areas (coils, seals, vents), and apply food-safe solutions to ensure compliance with hygiene standards.
- Often-overlooked appliances need attention too - Dishwashers, washing machines, microwaves, and extractor fans require specialised cleaning approaches.
- Professional results come from specialised equipment - Commercial-grade degreasers, steam cleaners, specialised brushes, and professional techniques work better than standard household cleaning methods.
- DIY cleaning carries significant risks - Incorrect DIY cleaning can damage appliance finishes, void warranties, and miss critical areas.
- Professional cleaning is a cost-effective investment - While hiring professionals costs more upfront (£60-£120 vs. £20-£50 for DIY supplies), the results, time saved, expertise, and reduced risk of damage make it worthwhile.
Appliance cleaning matters at the end of tenancy—here’s why
In the UK, most tenancy agreements require tenants to leave appliances clean and in good condition, apart from fair wear and tear. Ovens, fridges, and washing machines must not present grease, grime, and odours. Even if the appliances are functional, they should be cleaned professionally.
Ovens, fridges, and washing machines will most likely cause end-of-tenancy disputes. Ovens may have baked-on grease, carbon buildup, neglected trays or glass doors, whereas fridges can have leftover food spills, mould, and odours, especially in unseen areas like drawers and seals. Washing machines are also a culprit, as many tenants skip cleaning the filter, detergent drawer, and drum, all collecting mould and limescale.
According to the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS), cleaning is the top reason for disputes in the UK and represents around 50% of all claims. If hygiene standards aren’t met, deposit deductions range from £40 to over £150 per appliance for professional cleaning or replacement. For instance, a London tenant faced a £100 deposit deduction for insufficient oven cleaning at the end of their tenancy. The landlord claimed the oven was covered in burnt grease and carbon, which violated the tenancy agreement’s condition clause stating that appliances should be cleaned to a “reasonable standard.” Another tenant in Manchester had to pay £80 for a cleaning service to manage mould and unpleasant odours found in the fridge after move-out. The landlord provided evidence that the fridge was unclean and smelled, which breached the agreement’s cleanliness clause.
The most inspected and most challenging—the oven
Baked-on grease and carbon, hidden grime (behind glass panels, in racks, and around door seals), strong odours from burnt food residue, and visible buildup signalling poor hygiene and lack of care are the main reasons why ovens can make tenants face deposit deductions.
Professional oven cleaning
- Dismantle racks and glass
To do it like the pros, you must carefully remove the oven racks, trays, and door. Please place them in a specialised cleaning solution to soak and loosen grease and carbon buildup. Take apart the door and thoroughly clean he interior glass.
- Remove carbon, degrease, and deep scrub
Scrub the oven interior using professional-grade degreasers that break down baked-on grease and difficult carbon deposits. Use scrapers and brushes to clean everything, including the fan, oven walls, and heating elements for tough areas. Focus on cleaning corners and vents.
- Final polish and a safety check
Polish all surfaces to restore the shine. Place the door back in place and wipe away lingering residues. Ensure all components are functional and the oven is safe to use.
What tools and products do professionals use?
Heavy-duty degreasers
Professional cleaners use powerful, commercial-grade degreasers that break down difficult grease and carbon buildup. Many are oven-specific cleaners with potent formulas.
Steam cleaners
Steam cleaning breaks down grease and grime without harsh chemicals, especially in the oven’s interior and glass door.
Specialised scrapers and brushes
Professional cleaners use high-quality scrapers and brushes for oven cleaning, such as metal scrapers or non-scratching nylon brushes, to remove carbon deposits.
Rotary brushes
Rotary brushes spin rapidly, dislodge built-up grease and carbon, and are used for deep scrubbing (especially on walls and fans).
Protective chemicals
Professionals often use non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning products made for use in ovens.
Microfiber cloths
Lint-free microfiber cloths wipe down surfaces and ensure a streak-free finish on glass and stainless steel.
Fume-free oven cleaners
For stubborn grease or carbon, professionals use fume-free, gel-based oven cleaners that are safe and efficient. They have to sit for a while to break down residue.
These tools and products ensure a thorough, safe, and efficient clean that meets professional standards, going far beyond what standard household cleaners can achieve.
Professional-level results
Professional cleaners turn ovens with caked-on grease, burnt food residue, and carbon deposits into sparkling clean ones by following specific steps. They scrape away caked-on grease and carbon deposits using professional-grade degreasers, steam cleaners, and non-scratching tools. They will leave the glass door immaculate by removing all streaks, smudges, and baked-on stains. The pros also clean to perfection hard-to-reach areas (heating elements, around the fan, vent areas) and end by polishing the oven, leaving it like new.
Fridge & freezer cleaning
Correctly defrost fridge/freezer.
Correctly defrosting a fridge or freezer is vital to maintain their lifespan and avoid damage. Do it like a pro:
- Turn off the appliance before starting the defrosting process
- Empty the fridge/freezer to avoid food thawing or becoming spoiled. Remove shelves, drawers, and trays to avoid damage and speed up defrosting.
- Place towels or trays at the bottom of the appliance to catch the water from melting ice.
- Use lukewarm water or a hair dryer on a low setting if the ice is thick and you want to speed up defrosting. Don’t use too much heat—you don’t want to crack plastic or damage internal components.
- Don’t use sharp objects (knives, screwdrivers) to scrape off ice as you risk damaging the cooling coils, lining or interior surfaces.
- Remove any remaining water and wipe down surfaces after ice has melted to prevent mould and bacteria growth.
- Leave the fridge/freezer door open so they dry completely before you turn them back on.
Remove mould, spills, and built-up odours.
Professionals use a mould-killing cleaner or vinegar solution to remove mould and disinfect affected areas. They scrub hard-to-reach spots with cloths and soft brushes to avoid damaging seals and other components. Specialised cleaning agents will break down and eliminate spores if mould is persistent.
Professional cleaners use safe tools to scrape off spills (milk, juice, seeping into crevices and causing sticky residue) and clean afterwards with non-abrasive cleaners. If the spills are difficult, steam cleaning will lift residue, and to prevent further problems, drawers and shelves will be removed.
Professional cleaners use baking soda or activated charcoal to absorb and neutralise lingering odours. UV light or ozone treatments can eliminate odour-causing bacteria and microorganisms for deeper odour removal. The ventilation areas (condenser coils and fans) also require thorough cleaning.
A food-safe, antibacterial solution is used to sanitise the appliance thoroughly. It prevents cross-contamination of food and ensures a fresh, hygienic environment.
- 13% of renters reported never cleaning their oven, despite recommendations for a deep clean every three months.
- 31% of renters have never cleaned their dishwasher.
How professionals clean behind and underneath (coils, seals, vents)
Cleaning coils
Professional cleaners use a coil cleaning brush to remove dust, dirt, and grease from the condenser coils (at the back or bottom of the fridge/freezer). A vacuum with a brush attachment will suck up particles from hard-to-reach spots. After cleaning, the technicians wipe down the area to remove residual dirt.
Seals
A mild detergent solution and a soft brush are used to scrub seals and remove food particles, grime, and moisture. A vinegar solution or disinfectant will sanitise and restore the seals if there's heavy mould.
Vents
Professionals remove covers or panels protecting the vents and use a vacuum with a hose attachment to clear out dust and debris. They use compressed air to blow out trapped dirt, and to dislodge dirt, they use a brush.
Underneath the appliance
Slim cleaning tools (long dusters or vacuums with narrow attachments) help cleaners reach underneath the fridge and freezer. Sometimes, they wipe down the floor with a soft cloth or mop.
Sanitising for hygiene and compliance with food standards
- Professionals start with cleaning all appliance surfaces, including drawers, shelves, and door seals, to remove dirt, food residues, and spills.
- Food-safe sanitising solutions eliminate mould, bacteria, and other pathogens. They comply with UK food safety regulations, so no toxic chemicals remain on surfaces touching food. Seals, shelves, and handles will be cleaned with antibacterial wipes or sprays.
- Specialised cleaners that kill bacteria (E. coli or Salmonella) will disinfect shelves, trays, walls, and all internal surfaces. The door seals are also disinfected to prevent mould and bacterial growth.
- Professionals use odour-neutralising agents and techniques (baking soda or activated charcoal) to remove lingering odours.
- Airflow components (coils, vents) are cleaned as correct airflow is crucial to maintain safe temperatures.
- After sanitising, professional cleaners run a final inspection to ensure all surfaces are spotless and contaminant-free. They also verify the appliance’s temperature settings, which must meet food safety requirements.
Tips to keep it fresh after cleaning
- Check and clean door seals weekly with a damp cloth.
- Keep fridge/freezer temperature consistent--Fridges should be set at 5°C and freezers should be at -18°C.
- Place an open box of baking soda/ small activated charcoal bag in the fridge/freezer to neutralise odours. For maximum efficiency, replace it every 3 months.
- Always immediately clean up spills or crumbs, which can attract bacteria and cause unpleasant smells.
- Make sure food is sealed tightly in containers and covered to avoid spills and cross-contamination.
- Leave space for air to circulate and don’t overcrowd the fridge or freezer.
- Regularly empty expired food and check out the fridge/freezer for items that might be spoiled. Do it every two weeks to avoid rotten food causing a bad smell.
- Avoid grease buildup, wipe down oven surfaces after use, or use oven liners to catch spills and crumbs.
- Make sure vents and coils are not blocked and ventilate the appliances.
Key appliances also require deep cleaning.
Dishwasher
Regarding the dishwasher, limescale removal, cleaning the spray arms and filters, and freshening are key tasks before the move-out inspection.
Limescale removal
Due to hard water, limescale builds up around the heating element, spray arms and interior walls. You may place a cup of white vinegar in the top rack of the empty dishwasher and run a hot wash cycle. For difficult build-up, use a commercial dishwasher descaler that will dissolve limescale and mineral deposits.
Cleaning the spray arms and the filters
Remove the spray arms and use a toothpick or small brush to clear blocked holes in the spray arms. Soak the spray arms in warm water with dish soap/vinegar to loosen stubborn grime. Put the spray arms back in place after thorough rinsing.
Most dishwashers have the filter at the bottom; you can remove it by twisting or pulling it. Scrub off trapped food particles with some warm water and a soft brush. Soak the filter in warm water with white vinegar for 10-15 minutes for difficult dirt. Put the filter back in place after it’s scorched.
Freshening the dishwasher
To neutralise bad smells, sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of the empty dishwasher and run a short cycle with hot water. Alternatively, you can place some lemon slices or citrus peels in the top rack and run a hot cycle. Use a commercial dishwasher cleaner to remove grease, odours, and grime.
Regular maintenance
Regularly clean your dishwasher filters, spray arms, and interior to avoid future buildups. Deeply clean the dishwasher once a month—run a vinegar cycle or baking soda wash.
Washing machine
Clean the drawer
Remove the detergent drawer and soak it in warm water with white vinegar or baking soda for half an hour. Use a soft brush to scrub away residue, mould, or mildew. Rinse the drawer with warm water and completely dry it before placing it back.
Clean the drum
Empty the drum and run a hot wash (90°C or 95°C) with white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner. The vinegar breaks down soap scum, dirt, and kill mould spores. Alternatively, add half a cup of baking soda to the drum before running the hot cycle to neutralise odours and break down built-up residue. After the cycle, use a clean cloth to wipe down the drum and remove loose dirt.
Clean the rubber seal.
Carefully remove the rubber seal and use a microfiber cloth (soaked in water and vinegar) to remove dirt, debris, and mould. Use a mould remover or a paste (water and baking soda) if the mould is difficult. Thoroughly dry the rubber seal before placing it back.
Clean the drain filter.
Open the filter compartment, remove the filter and clear away lint, hair or debris. Rinse the filter under water and scrub it with a brush, if necessary. Check the drain for hidden clogs and remove lingering residue from the drain pipe with a brush.
Regular maintenance tips
After every use, leave the door ajar so the drum airs and moisture doesn’t build up. Run a monthly hot wash with vinegar or washing machine cleaner to keep the interior fresh and wipe the exterior (including top and buttons) to prevent detergent residue and dust from building up.
- Professionals thoroughly clean often-neglected components (condenser coils, door seals, vents, and underneath the appliance) using specialised tools.
- Regular maintenance routines (like weekly seal cleaning, proper temperatures, prompt spill cleanup, and monthly deep cleaning of dishwashers and washing machines) help prevent major issues, eliminate odours, and keep appliances functional.
Microwave
Clean grease splatter
Steam method
Place a microwave-safe bowl filled with water and a few tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice inside the microwave. Heat on high for 5 minutes—the steam will loosen grease and food particles, easing wiping.
Remove the bowl and wipe the interior with a soft cloth or sponge. For difficult grease, use a mixture of dish soap and baking soda. Soak a cloth in soapy water to clean the door, around the edges, and vents.
Remove burnt smells
Baking soda solution
Mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with warm water. Place the solution in a bowl inside the microwave and heat it for 2-3 minutes.
Lemon or vinegar
Alternatively, microwave a water bowl with sliced lemon or a few tablespoons of vinegar for 5 minutes. After cleaning, leave the microwave door open for a while.
Clean the rotating plate.
Please take out the rotating plate and wash it by hand with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Let it soak for a few minutes if it has difficult food stains. If the rotating plate is dishwasher-safe, put it in the dishwasher for a deep clean.
Regular maintenance
Wipe down the interior of the microwave after each use and clean its exterior (especially the keypad and handle) with a gentle cleaner or all-purpose spray. To avoid future splatters, use a microwave-safe cover or paper towel to catch grease and food splatters.
Extractor fan & range hood
Deep degreasing the range hood
Turn off the power and remove the grease filter (if applicable).
Clean the exterior
- For metal surfaces, use a degreaser or dish soap and warm water. Use a sponge/soft cloth to apply the solution and scrub gently. A specialised degreasing cleaner will be needed if the grease is stubborn.
- Stainless steel—Use a cleaner formulated for stainless steel and clean it toward the grain to avoid scratches.
Clean the interior
Use a grease-cutting solution (vinegar, baking soda, commercial degreaser) to scrub the internal surfaces and a soft brush or cloth for the corners. Wipe all surfaces with a dry cloth.
Cleaning or replacing the filters
Metal mesh filters
Soak the filter in a mixture of hot water and degreaser or baking soda solution (1/4 cup of baking soda in hot water). Allow it to loosen grease in 10-15 minutes and remove remaining grease with a brush. Rinse and dry before putting it back.
Charcoal filters
These are not washable; you must replace them when they become clogged or inefficient (every 6-12 months). Check out the manufacturer’s instructions for correct replacement. Once a month, examine the filters and look for grease or debris buildup.
Cleaning the fan blades
Turn off the power, access the fan blade, and wipe the blades with a cloth or soft sponge soaked in degreaser solution. Don’t scrub aggressively and reassemble the range hood after cleaning and drying the blades with a clean cloth.
Regular maintenance tips
After intense cooking sessions, wipe down the interior and exterior of the hood and always turn on the extractor fan before cooking—it will capture grease and smoke early on. Use the adequate fan speed for your cooking to maximise grease capture and air ventilation.
Small appliances
Kettle descaling
Pour a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar into the kettle (halfway). Bring it to a boil, sit for 15-30 minutes, and scrub the inside gently after soaking. Remove the remaining buildup with a soft brush or sponge and thoroughly rinse with clean water to eliminate the smell of vinegar.
Alternatively, you can use commercial descaling tablets and follow the instructions on the label before use.
Toaster crumb removal
Unplug the toaster and slide the crumb tray to empty the crumbs. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the tray and hold the toaster upside down over the sink/trash. Shake it to remove loose crumbs from the inside. Carefully remove remaining crumbs stuck inside the toaster with a clean paintbrush or soft brush. Make sure the toaster is completely dry before plugging it back in.
Regular maintenance
To avoid limescale buildup in the kettle, use filtered water and run a descaling procedure every 1-2 months. As for the toaster, empty the crumb tray after every use and wipe it regularly to remove grease and food debris. Never immerse it in water.
Why do professional results stand out
Professional cleaners use commercial-grade cleaning equipment that is stronger and more efficient than domestic alternatives. They also use high-quality degreasers, descalers, and cleaning chemicals for kitchen appliances. More often than not, professional cleaners use high-temperature steam cleaning, which breaks down grease without needing harsh chemicals.
Many professional cleaners turn to eco-safe chemicals that clean thoroughly without affecting the environment, people’s health and appliances. Specialised brushes and tools, vacuum cleaners with attachments to remove dirt and debris from hard-to-reach areas, and precision tools (microfiber cloths, nozzle extensions, and steel wool pads) are found in a professional cleaning toolkit.
Certified cleaning professionals use the safest methods and tools and follow safe and efficient work protocols. They wear PPE (personal protective equipment) when necessary, work in well-ventilated areas, and employ safe lifting techniques. They also ensure no damage to appliances during cleaning and ensure not to void warranties or harm delicate surfaces or internal parts.
Common appliance cleaning challenges
Long-term grease and carbon deposits
Professional cleaners use industrial-grade degreasers that dissolve and lift difficult grease and carbon build-up without damaging the appliances. They may employ steam cleaning and specialised tools (scrapers and stiff brushes) to loosen stubborn grease and carbon.
Smells, hidden mould, and food build-up
Professionals use cleaning agents and even high-temperature steam cleaning to break down organic matter, remove food build-up, and sanitise areas prone to mould. Mould-specific cleaners remove visible mould growth and spores in hard-to-reach areas (vents, seals, and underneath appliance components). Technicians often use odour neutralisers (baking soda, specialised sprays) to eliminate lingering smells.
Rust, limescale, and hard water marks
For limescale build-up, professionals use descaling agents that dissolve mineral deposits on appliances (dishwashers, kettles, and coffee machines). Rust removers or mild abrasives (steel wool) scrub away rust without damaging the appliance’s surface. Protective coatings will also be applied to avoid future limescale and rust buildup.
Restoring the appearance and extending the lifespan of appliances
After cleaning, professional cleaners apply a polish to restore the appliances’ shine, especially stainless steel, glass, or ceramic. Ovens and dishwashers may also get anti-smudge coatings or protective layers that preserve their finish and prevent buildup. Many professionals guide customers on regular maintenance: how to descale a kettle, prevent rust, etc.
- Approximately 60% of UK households are in hard water areas, leading to increased limescale buildup in appliances such as kettles, washing machines, and dishwashers.
- Limescale accumulation can significantly shorten the lifespan of appliances by causing components to work harder and leading to premature wear and tear.
DIY vs. professional cleaning: what you need to know
Time, effort, and effectiveness: side-by-side comparison
| Aspect | DIY Cleaning | Professional Cleaning |
| Time | It can take several hours per appliance, especially when gathering supplies and scrubbing by hand. | Completed in a fraction of the time using efficient tools and expert techniques. |
| Effort | Physically demanding — involves lifting, scrubbing, and dealing with hard-to-reach grime. | Minimal effort on your part — pros handle everything with specialised tools and skill. |
| Effectiveness | Often misses deep grime, grease, or hidden dirt without commercial-grade products. | Delivers a deep, sanitised clean with pro-level tools and products for better results. |
Cost: Buying cleaning products vs. hiring a pro
| Aspect | DIY Cleaning | Professional Cleaning |
| Typical Cost | £20–£50+ for quality degreasers, descalers, brushes, cloths, gloves, etc. | £60–£120 for a professional clean (varies by number/type of appliances) |
| What’s Included | The products/tools, labour, and time are all on you. | All tools, products, labour, and expertise are included in the price. |
| Hidden Costs | Time-consuming, physically demanding; risk of damage = extra expense (repairs or replacements). | No hidden fees — reputable pros offer upfront pricing with insurance and guarantees. |
| Cost-Effectiveness | It may be cheaper in the short term, but less efficient and riskier. | More expensive upfront, but longer-term value through deeper cleaning and appliance care. |
Risk factor: common DIY mistakes (scratching, damaging components)
With DIY cleaning, there’s the risk of using the wrong tools, or excessive scrubbing can damage appliance finishes, whereas using the wrong cleaning products can cause permanent damage to components. Hard-to-reach areas are often skipped in DIY cleaning, which can void warranties if the cleaning causes damage.
When DIY is enough
- Your appliance isn’t heavily soiled
- It only needs minor maintenance
- You have the right tools and products.
Call in the pros if:
- There are difficult build-ups
- You need deep sanitisation for hygiene and health reasons
- You deal with heavily soiled appliances
- You lack the tools, products, and expertise
Get a quote for our complete end of tenancy cleaning.
How to choose a reliable cleaning service
- Check out the online reviews and testimonials
- Select a company with certified technicians
- Make sure the company is fully insured and offers a satisfaction guarantee
- Look for a company with transparent pricing, no hidden fees
- Ensure the company has experience in cleaning appliances.
Why UK Customers Trust Buzz Maids
- We have a professional process for cleaning each appliance
- Our cleaners are professionally trained, vetted, and insured
- We use eco-friendly, pet- and child-safe formulas
- Tenants, landlords, and letting agents across the UK trust us
Final checklist
If you want your deposit back in full, hire the pros—they will make everything from your big fridge and oven to the small kettle or microwave spotless and hygienic. Your appliances will be scrutinised during the final inspection, and you shouldn’t lose your deposit over a greasy hood or a musty dishwasher.
Also find out what's included in a complete end of tenancy deep clean.
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