When cleaning behind your appliances you can make sure your house stays nice and clean and doesn't harbor a place for bugs and bacteria. To clean behind appliances use a strong degreaser like water with Dawn dishwashing detergent mixed in it to get rid of that crud that has built up over the months.

Here's how and how often you should clean behind your appliances and why:

Refrigerator
You should definitely clean under and behind the refrigerator at least once a year. Some people do it twice a year during spring and fall cleaning. Make sure to use a soft brush or use a damp cloth to clean cords, coils and other metal parts. Also once per year, slide the refrigerator out and vacuum around and beneath it to remove dust and dirt. You don't want dirt collecting on the coils. Twice each year, clean the coils with a vacuum or condenser coil brush. Be sure to avoid disturbing the insulation or bending the fan blades in the process. Twice a year check the door gasket for damage or excessive water. A leaky gasket wastes energy and shortens the life of the compressor. Replace the gasket as needed. On self-defrosting refrigerators, the drain pan collects water over time and should be cleaned annually.

Microwave
A microwave is much easier to clean behind. It is not a bad idea to clean behind it monthly to get rid of any food spills, dirt and grime. Keeping it clean behind will ensure that you keep your counter free of ants and other bugs. Plus cleaning the chord and plug from any dust can prevent potential fires. Don't forget to clean the inside while you are at it. Those stuck on food stains start smelling and can become a sticky mess. To get rid of the odors and stuck-on food, place a mug filled with water and a few slices of lemon in the middle of the microwave and turn it on high for 3 minutes. Let the water sit inside for a few more minutes. The steam will soften the food spills, and the lemon will eliminate odors. After you do this, you can easily wipe down the walls with a soapy cloth.

Dishwasher
At least twice per year, pull out the dishwasher to clean under it. This will keep food, dust and other spills picked up so mildew and bacteria doesn't form. Also, twice a year make sure to run the dishwasher while observing it to identify any minor leaks. Also remove the lower panel and check for leaks in the supply and drain hoses. Tighten clamps or replace hoses as needed. This will ensure the best optimal use and longevity of your dishwasher.

Toaster
Obviously cleaning behind a toaster is a lot easier than most other appliances. You should probably clean under your toaster daily to keep the counter clean of crumbs. It is really important to clean the inside of the toaster. To clean, unplug the appliance and empty the crumb tray and dislodge any burned-on food. Keeping crumbs clean from the toaster will prevent a fire hazard, not to mention the burning smell that can come from a fire.

Dryer
Most manufacturers recommend cleaning the dust and lint from behind the dryer once a year, but you can do it every six months. Pull the dryer away from the wall and disconnect the flexible exhaust pipe. On electric dryers, pull the plug from the outlet. On gas dryers, turn the supply valve off. Then simply vacuum inside the exhaust pipe and the exhaust vent on the dryer. A damp rag can also be used, too.

Cleaning behind your appliances is important to keep any bugs, bacteria or hazards from happening. Now that you have a better understanding on how often you should clean behind your appliances and why, you can get started cleaning today.