The Ideal Temperatures for Your Refrigerator and Freezer

The Ideal Temperatures for Your Refrigerator and Freezer

In order to keep your food fresh, it is vital to store it at the perfect temperature. Both your refrigerator and freezer compartments have ideal conditions that slow the development of bacteria and ensures your food is preserved properly. Not to mention that it also lets you save on your electricity bill!

If you want to get the most out of your food storage, then keep reading. I’ve got a few helpful tips on how to best manage your refrigerator temperature.

Starting With Your Freezer

Setting your freezer temperature is the easiest thing to do. As per Health Canada, your freezer needs to be set at -18 degrees Celsius to slow the metabolic rate of spoilage and preserve your foods’ nutrient level.

To reduce food loss in your freezer, simply make sure everything is stored in an airtight container and be sure to date everything so you can eat it before you get freezer burn.

If you’re not sure how to freeze your food properly, this great guide from Food Network could help: Your Ultimate Guide to Freezing Food.

Now, this is where it gets complicated…the fridge.

The Right Fridge Temperature

Ideal Refrigerator Temperature

As a rule, the interior temperature of a refrigerator varies between 3 and 5 degrees Celsius, with Health Canada recommending that the ideal temperature be set below 4 degrees Celsius. But perfect preservation is about more than just temperature and there are a number of subtleties that are good for you to know.

First off, the temperature is not the same at different levels of your refrigerator. As a general rule, the bottom of the fridge is the coldest and the temperature rises as you climb. For example, on the middle shelf, the average temperature is approximately 5 degrees Celsius, while the lowest shelves are colder, at about 2 degrees Celsius.

This is why you should place different foods on different levels, depending on their needs in terms of temperature:

  • Store your vegetables and produce in the bottom drawers.
  • Place your meat and fresh fish on the bottom shelf.
  • Put your dairy products and deli products on the middle shelf.
  • Store precooked and ready to eat items on the top shelf.

Misplacing your food can lead to more loss through overcooling and/or undercooling. And as a general rule avoid storing sensitive items on the refrigerator door where temperatures are more likely to fluctuate.

If you want to get even more control, there are refrigerators on the market that have specialized drawers and compartments with narrower temperature bands and better humidity control.

Grabbing a small appliance thermometer is a good way to monitor fridge temperature. This enables you to get regular accurate temperature readings and thus be reassured that your food is being well-preserved.

Full, But Not Too Full

Ideal Refrigerator Temperature

Although there is no specific rule on the matter, you should avoid overloading your refrigerator. An overstocked fridge can impede the free circulation of air, which can lead to both warm and cold pockets in the refrigerator that can speed up spoilage.

Even though some refrigerator models cool your food faster than others, it is wise to not push the limits by keeping too great a quantity of provisions. However, at the other extreme, you should also keep in mind that a refrigerator left virtually empty will consume more energy than a well-stocked one.

Saving Food, Saving Energy, Saving Money

In some cases, your refrigerator can represent up to 25 percent of your monthly electricity bill. This is why it’s important to find the correct food-safe temperature to avoid wasting food and electricity.

Each refrigerator has its own specifications, particularly as regards energy consumption. It’s important to consult the specifications label to avoid unpleasant surprises. If you can’t find the label, you can always find the information on the Internet or by consulting your retailer.

Remember, whether your refrigerator has a capacity of 10 cubic feet or 30 cubic feet (cubic feet is the most popular measure of refrigerator storage), the general rules of food storage are the same.

Going, Going, Gone…

If you still can’t keep your food from spoiling then it’s probably time for a service call. Contact a reputable appliance repair person to inspect your appliance and ensure it’s operating correctly. Sometimes a simple fix can solve the issue.

If you need a new fridge, our Appliance Experts will be happy to help you find one that suits your needs.

Start browsing our refrigerator selection online now.

Isabelle, Your Appliance Expert

4 Reasons to Make the Switch to Convection Cooking

4 Reasons to Make the Switch to Convection Cooking

Convection ovens continue to be one of the hottest trends in home cooking. But what makes it so special? Traditional radiant ovens use elements or gas to generate heat inside the oven cavity to cook your food, and it’s imperfect at best. Depending on the location of the elements and the size of your oven, your food may cook unevenly, and you may have to contend with cold spots that just don’t heat up the way you want them to.

Convection ovens take home cooking to the next level. Using a fan and exhaust system, convection ovens circulate hot air inside the oven cavity and remove moisture at the same time.

So why is that such a big deal?

1. It Cooks Faster

Convection ovens typically cook 20% – 30% faster than traditional radiant ovens. The circulating air moves through the oven cavity quickly, preheating in less time and cooking more efficiently. It’s recommended that you check your dishes often, especially towards the end. Because convection cooks much faster, you’ll need to assess the look and smell of your food for readiness rather than depending on your timer.

2. It Cooks Evenly

One of the best things about convection is the ability to cook multiple items at the same temperature and consistency anywhere in the oven. You’d never be able to bake 3 trays of cookies at the same time in a traditional oven, but in your convection oven you’ll have 3 trays of perfectly browned cookies every time.

And because a fan is circulating the air throughout the oven cavity, you don’t have those cold spots, that inconsistency that can ruin your meal. In higher-end models, a True convection system is used. In True Convection (also called European Convection), a third element placed by the fan heats the air evenly before it is blown into the oven, guaranteeing consistent cooking temperatures every time.

Remember, convection cooking is all about cooking with moving air, so use baking sheets and roasting pans with lower sides to allow for air circulation and don’t overcrowd your oven or you’ll reduce the effectiveness of the fan.

3. It Browns Better

Nothing browns food quite like a convection oven. The hot air blowing over the food surface will cook the inside of the dish faster and at a higher temperature than the radiant heat. As the exhaust system pulls the moisture from the air; the sugars in your vegetables will caramelize and brown, the fats in your meat will render and create moist, succulent meals with a crispy brown skin, your pastries will be flakier than you’ve ever seen and your roasted potatoes will be perfectly brown and crisp on the outside and fluffy soft on the inside.

4. It Saves Energy

Convection ovens cook faster and more efficiently. Simply put, you won’t run your oven as long and you won’t have to turn it up as high as a traditional oven. In fact, a good rule of thumb is to reduce the suggested cooking temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sounds too good to be true, right? There’s more. Because convection is a feature on your oven, you don’t have to use it. If you’re new to convection cooking and you want to experiment, you’ll have the choice to use it or not. Take your time, and before you know it, you’ll be perfecting browning Holiday meals like a pro.

So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to our store where one of our experts will walk you through our selection of convection ranges and wall ovens.

Isabelle, Your Appliance Expert

6 Cutting Edge Appliances to Take Your New Kitchen Over the Top

6 Cutting Edge Appliances to Take Your New Kitchen Over the Top

Designing a new kitchen or renovating is always exciting. There’s so much to consider from finishes to flooring and, of course, new appliances. It’s the one opportunity you’ll have to make your kitchen entirely your own. So why would you settle for just an average kitchen?

People are taking kitchen design to the next level by expanding their appliance choices and seeking out complementary appliances that fit their individual lifestyle. These state-of-the-art appliances expand the functionality of your space, add personal touches to your design, and are also really fun to use. That’s a win-win baby!

Without further ado, let’s take a look at 6 of the hottest complementary appliances that are a must-have for anyone looking to make the most of their kitchen.

1. Wine and Beverage Solutions

Wine cooler

Wine coolers and beverage centres are what I like to call the standard in Social Refrigeration. If you’re looking to expand your cold drink storage, love to entertain, or even if you just enjoy a glass of wine in the evening, a dedicated beverage solution is a perfect addition to any kitchen.

Wine coolers come in single, dual and even triple cooling zones in undercounter and full-sized options capable of holding nearly 200 bottles. Available in multiple finishes, there’s a wine cooler for everyone from the occasional glass lover to the most discriminating sommelier.

Beverage Centres are strictly a compact design, with freestanding and built-in undercounter options available. If you want cold drinks at the ready, save space in your fridge, or make it easy for little hands to help themselves, then these are a fantastic upgrade to any kitchen or dedicated recreational space. Look for options that offer wine and beverage storage if you really want the best of both worlds.

2. Built-In Coffee System

Bosch Built-in Coffee maker

Who wants barista-style coffee brewed right in their kitchen? Everyone, right? Built-in coffee systems are the must-have appliances in any upscale kitchen. From lattes to espressos to the perfect drip, built-in units do it all. At the high end, you’ll be able to find plumbed units that are easier to operate and less hassle to maintain, but no matter what you choose, it’s hard to beat the high performance, personalized taste, and convenience that comes with making your own perfect cup of coffee.

3. Trash Compactor

Trash Compactor

Alright, this next one isn’t for everyone. But, if you’re living in a home with limited garbage collection then you should definitely consider a trash compactor. Available in both freestanding or built-in configurations, garbage compactors come in a range of sizes and compression strengths. Look for models that have odour reduction and anti-obstruction features to avoid the most common problems. And it goes without saying that if you’ve ever wanted to crush your garbage into giant cubes, then this is a no brainer.

4. Home Cultivator

Danby Herb Grower - Cultivator

There’s almost nothing better for your health than eating right. A home cultivator is the perfect way to add fresh, organic, home grown herbs, micro greens and vegetables to your family’s diet year-round. It’s good food you can trust, right at your fingertips. Their compact size makes them an easy fit, and plumbed units will automatically water your plants too.

5. Ice Maker

Ice Machine

Many refrigerators come with ice makers now, but if you love to entertain then a stand-alone ice maker could be a perfect addition to your kitchen. Available in built-in, freestanding, and smaller portable models, an ice maker can create anywhere up to 55 pounds of ice a day. A dedicated unit will give you clearer ice cubes without mineral impurities, and you’ll have your choice of cubes, nuggets, flakes, tubes, and crushed ice to perfectly cool any drink.

6. Warming Drawers

Warming Drawer

Designers love warming drawers. The drawer’s thin, sleek appearance is the perfect complement to other built-in appliances and can help create that showpiece installation in your kitchen. Practically, having a warming drawer means everything you cook will always be served at the perfect temperature. If you’ve ever prepared a big holiday meal, you’ll know that it can be challenging to prepare all the food at the same time. With a warming drawer, no matter how long it takes for each dish to cook, you’ll always be able to serve your food at the perfect temperature.

Now that you’ve had a taste of some of the hottest (and coolest) appliances to complete any kitchen renovation, head on over to our store for more in-depth info and advice.

Isabelle, Your Appliance Expert

How to Clean Your Mattress After You’ve Been Sick

Concept Zzz mattress

Nothing is worse than being sick in bed for days or weeks at a time. When you’re finally feeling well enough to get up, it feels like a million chores have piled up! Grocery shopping, bills, catching up on emails, changing your toothbrush head … but do you think to clean your mattress after an illness?

No, we don’t just mean swapping out the sheets — when you’re sick, germs can get all over your mattress, especially if you’ve been spending all day every day in it. Just washing out the sheets won’t get all the gross stuff that’s built up on your bed while you’ve been sick, so it’s important to take time to clean your mattress once you recover. Here’s how to do it the right way.

Change Your Sheets

Okay, yes, we did just tell you that this goes beyond cleaning your sheets, but this should still be the first step of the cleaning process. Remove sheets, blankets, comforters, and pillowcases and toss them all in the washing machine. If your laundry machine has a sanitize cycle, be sure to use it! Not only will you feel like a whole new person with fresh sheets, but you’ll also stop the spread of germs if you wash your blankets right after recovering from your illness.

Open the Windows

Pull back the drapes and open those windows wide, especially if it’s a sunny day! Airflow helps keep bacteria from settling into your mattress and sunlight is a natural disinfectant, so before you get started, make sure your bed has access to both. If you can, you might even want to take the mattress outside to maximize access to warmth, sun, and fresh air.

Vacuum Everything

Though you can’t exactly vacuum up germs, the buildup of dust and allergens on your mattress might even be what got you sick in the first place! Plus, it’s a good idea to get rid of any loose hair or debris on your mattress before you get into the serious cleaning. Break out your vacuum’s upholstery attachment and get in all those crevices — cleaning out any dust mites or pet dander that might be hiding in your mattress will keep you breathing easier in sickness and in health.

Sanitize the Surface

Sanitizing a mattress

There are a couple of options to make sure any lingering viruses are good and dead. A garment steamer or other small steam cleaner is the perfect first step for getting rid of germs and dust mites. Do a few passes over the surface, and make sure to get in all the corners. If there are any spots from bodily fluids left behind while you were sick, spot clean them with a damp cloth and a mixture of water and some gentle dish soap. Finally, sprinkle some baking soda onto the mattress and leave it to sit for a few hours (again, preferably in the sunshine) before vacuuming it off.

These methods work for any mattress type, but if you’re cleaning a memory foam mattress, you’ll have to be extra careful about drying the mattress thoroughly. A fan or a hairdryer set to cool can help soak up excess water and get your mattress ready to go as quick as possible.

Preventative Action

The best offense against germs is a good defense! Before making your bed back up, protect your mattress with a mattress cover. This will help minimize the microbes and allergens that can actually reach the surface of your bed, and make cleanup easier next time you get sick – which hopefully won’t be for a long time!

Not only will cleaning up your bed keep sickness at bay, removing hidden allergens and dust mites can help with nightly allergies and snoring, giving you a better sleep all around. So say hello to a new, germ-free you, and a better night’s sleep! For more mattress care tips or advice on the best mattress for your sleep needs, come by our store and talk to our associates. Our sleep expertise will have you snoozing better than ever every night.

Shop Concept Zzz mattresses

Angela, Your Sleep Expert

How to Properly Make a Bed in 6 Steps

How to Properly Make a Bed in 6 Steps

At some point in your life, you probably learned to make a bed. Maybe a parent taught you, or maybe you just figured it out yourself. It could be that you don’t even know how to make a bed. Assembling some bed sheets and covers over a mattress seems easy, but you’d be surprised how many people just don’t do it right.

Follow these steps when making your bed so that you get it right every time:

1. Make Sure Everything Is Off

Start with a blank canvas – a.k.a a naked mattress. You want nothing on the bed that will get in your way. That means removing all the blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals sitting on your mattress, so you have a clean slate to work with.

2. Start with a Mattress Protector

A mattress protector is one of the most important components of your bed as it forms a barrier around your Tempur-Pedic mattress, shielding it from allergens, dust mites, accidental spills and most importantly pet urine. Believe us when we say that you will never regret this investment.

TempurPedic Mattress Protector
Tempur-Pedic Mattress Protector

3. Put Your Fitted Sheet On

First, identify your fitted sheet from your top sheet. The difference between the two lies in the corners. The fitted sheet has the elastic ends that make holding onto the mattress corners easy. Put the fitted sheet on by covering the mattress, one corner at a time. You may need to tug hard on the final corner to wrap it around, but otherwise, it should be easy. Make sure the sheet is without any wrinkles on top, so that the next steps go smoothly.

4. Lay Out the Top Sheet

Lay the top sheet gently on top of the fitted sheet with the large hem at the top of the bed. Make sure the sheet is laid out evenly so there isn’t an awkward amount of the sheet hanging to one side of the bed. You could start by stuffing the sheet under the mattress – which is a slightly messy way to get it done. In order to make your bed perfectly, we highly recommend putting your sheets on with the hospital corners method. This will keep the sheet tight under your mattress while making it look very neat at the same time.

5. Put Your Bedspread, Duvet, or Comforter on Last

This part is easy. Throw your blanket over the top sheet and spread it out so that it’s even on both sides. Make sure there aren’t any wrinkles by smoothing it out with your hands.

6. Add the Pillows

Put the pillow sheets on your pillows and fluff them. The way you fluff a pillow is by placing your hands on separate ends of the pillow and squeezing the pillow together and pulling it apart. Do this a couple of times until the pillow looks fuller. Finally, place them next to each other at the top of the bed and you’re done!

Making your bed is an easy and quick daily task. Take a few minutes every day to make your bed and start your morning off feeling organized and productive!

Angela, Your Sleep Expert

How to Test a Beautyrest Mattress Before Buying

How to Test a Beautyrest Mattress Before Buying

Try before you buy! It’s true of everything from sports cars to ice cream scoops, so why shouldn’t it be true of your mattress?

The quality of your mattress can affect your physical and mental health in lots of ways, so make sure you’re getting the right one for all your needs. Beds in boxes shipped straight to your door may be trendy at the moment, but nothing beats taking your mattress for a test drive before bringing it home. When you go bed shopping, be sure to follow these mattress-testing tips to make sure you’re getting one that’s perfect for you.

Study Up on Mattress Types

Starting your mattress shopping journey without the right knowledge is a one-way ticket to disappointment. Before you start shopping, read up on the different options and their pros and cons. Be sure to measure your space too, so you don’t find yourself trying to cram a King into a spot that couldn’t even fit a full-size bed! Though our mattress experts are always happy to help answer questions and help you find your perfect fit, you’re more likely to go home with a bed you love if you’ve done your research on mattress sizes, price points, and types.

Ask an Expert

Don’t try to go it alone! One of the best parts about testing a bed in store is having access to knowledgeable sleep experts who can guide you through all your questions and concerns. One-on-one advice from our associates can help you find a Beautyrest mattress that fits your body and your budget without the headaches of online-only shopping.

Test for Your Sleep Style

The right way to test a mattress

Back, side, and stomach sleepers are all going to need different kinds of support in different places. While you’re shopping, be sure to check that a mattress has the right balance of comfort and reinforcement for your sleep style.

If you sleep on your back, test a potential mattress by lying down and trying to slide your hand under the small of your back. It should be a bit difficult, but not impossible. If your hand easily slides behind your back, the mattress is probably too firm, and if your hand won’t budge at all, it’s probably too soft.

Side sleepers will need a friend, partner, or store employee to help test this out. Take off any loose outerwear and lie on your side in whatever position you would normally sleep in. Have someone take a picture of your back, then check the picture to make sure your spine is as straight as it can be. If it isn’t, move on to another mattress!

Stomach sleepers can’t test this quite as easily since no mattress can fully support your back in this position, so you’ll have to take extra care to listen to your body during the testing process. Can you feel your shoulders cramping, or the mattress sagging under you? If you notice these problems now, you’ll definitely notice them after spending a whole eight hours sleeping on it. Thank you, next!

Get Your Snooze On

To really find out if a potential new mattress is going to offer support and comfort in all the right places, you can’t just touch it, sit on it, or lie down on it – you have to sleep on it.

You aren’t going to really see how a mattress affects you until you let your muscles relax and rest how they would while you’re asleep. So when you start mattress hunting, set aside plenty of time to browse our Beautyrest mattress selection in store, and be sure to bring your partner too! Just because a mattress is supportive enough for you, doesn’t mean it will be as comfortable with two on the bed. Lie down on a mattress that interests you and set a timer for at least 15 minutes, then get to napping. You’ll know soon enough whether a bed feels right or not.

You deserve a bed that gives you the right support – that’s why we’re here to give you the right support on your journey to find it. If you’re ready to begin your mattress shopping adventure, stop by our store or give us a call! We’re always ready to give you the sleep – and the service – you deserve.

Angela, Your Sleep Expert

6 Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Kitchen Appliances

Cleaning microwave with lemon and water

Wasn’t it just the new year? It seems like 2020 just started, and yet here we are already entering spring. And that means one thing. Yeah, it doesn’t really excite us either, but it’s here again: spring cleaning time!

We aren’t just here to help you with a basic spring cleaning, though — you can handle the dusting and vacuuming on your own. Instead, we want to help guide you through the nooks and crannies and appliance alcoves that might be missed in your run-of-the-mill cleaning. There isn’t anything run-of-the-mill about our appliance store, and the same goes for the expert cleaning advice we have to share!

1. Microwave

Microwaves tend to see a lot of kitchen traffic, but they also tend to get messy, too. The good news is there’s an easy way to clean your microwave out: Put a half of a lemon in a bowl with some water. Microwave the solution until it begins boiling, then let everything soak in for a few minutes. The next part is easy: Just wipe everything down to find your microwave all clean and lemony fresh!

2. Garbage Disposal

This is one of those scary areas to clean – there’s just been one too many horror movies that have scenes involving garbage disposals! The good news is that you can clean them without getting too close to the blades. And again, we’re going to call some fruit to the witness stand.

First, fill up the sink with dish soap and water. Wait until it has drained, and then throw some cut-up citrus fruit into the disposal. Run it to chop up all the fruit, and ta-da! Clean as can be.

3. Blender

A word of caution here – you always want to be careful cleaning your blender. Be mindful of the blades, especially if you have filled it with water and are washing it out by hand. Been there, done that. You don’t want to do that.

There’s an even easier way to clean out your blender, though: Fill it halfway with soap and water and run it. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy. Also, make sure not to use too much soap, or it can cause everything to leak while blending!

4. Dishwasher

Bosch-100Series-Dishwasher-in-Stainless-Steel_Racks-1024x683
Bosch Dishwashers

Your dishwasher cleans things, but how do you clean something that is supposed to clean other things? Well, when life gives you lemons, use them to clean. Duh.
Run a load with the washer empty, but use powdered lemonade instead of your normal detergent.

But if you keep having problems with your dishwasher, however, it may be time for a new one. We’ve got loads of amazing Bosch diswashers at even more amazing prices – all just waiting for you to take one of them home.

5. Electric Tea Kettle

Just because you boil hot water in it doesn’t mean it can’t get dirty! You want to be sure to clean out your tea kettle too, no different than you would any other oft-used appliance.

The battle to clean a tea kettle is against hard water and limescale, which means the answer is either vinegar and water or lemon and water. Pour either of those combinations into your kettle and set it to boil. Once it is cool you can empty it and it should be clean!

6. Coffee Maker

You drink out of this every day, and yet when was the last time you actually stopped to take a second to clean it out? Yup. That’s what we thought. A clean coffee maker is a sure-fire way to make certain that you are starting your day right.

A vinegar-water mixture run through the machine can help clean it out, but you’ll want something a little stronger for the pot itself. Try water mixed with baking soda – mix it together, pour it in the pot and give it ample time to break down everything that has built up. There. That should do the trick.

Cleaning is hard work, but it’s hard work that pays off. It will keep your appliances in good shape and help make sure they live a long and fruitful life. Of course, if you are having any problems with your appliances – or are in the market for new ones – just stop on over! We are always here to help you with any of your appliance needs, no matter how big or small.

Amanda, Your Appliance Expert

A “Dos and Don’ts” Guide for When It’s Laundry Day

A “Dos and Don’ts” Guide for When It’s Laundry Day

From the way you wash delicates to the way you put clothes in the dryer, you’ll want to follow this guide on the right ways to do your laundry.

DO Wash Delicates Inside Out

Your delicates should be treated with the utmost care, which means turning them inside out before gently tossing them into the washing machine. When you wash your delicates right side out, they can rub against your other garments which causes pilling and tearing—especially if anything were to snag on another piece of clothing. Inside-out washing is a safe way to protect your delicates from any damage.

DO Wash Your Appliances

Just because your washer and dryer can clean your clothes, it doesn’t mean they can clean themselves! Make sure to wipe down your washing machine and dryer thoroughly every couple of months to keep them void of bacteria—but also in better condition so that they last longer.

Read this How to Deep Clean Your Top Load Washer.

DO Shake Clothes Out Before Transferring to Dryer

If you tend to transfer your clothes from washer to dryer without even paying attention to the state that piece is in, then this tip is for you. Shake each article of clothing out so that you aren’t throwing clumps of clothes into your dryer. This allows your clothes to dry all the way through and also saves you from having to iron out the wrinkles.

GE Top Load Washer and Dryer
GE Top Load Washer

DON’T Put Too Much in Washer and Dryer

Each garment needs room to circulate and when they’re squished between other clothes, there’s a good chance they won’t get the proper wash they need. Stuffing your washer and dryer is not only bad for your clothing, but it’s also bad for your machines! Make sure to check your washer and dryer’s manual on how much they can handle before trying to fit 2 weeks’ worth of laundry into 1 day.

DON’T Use Cheap Detergent

While we all love a good bargain, sometimes, going for the cheapest detergent is not worth it. Try out different kinds to see which you like best on your clothes. You could even try making your own from scratch! Find a DIY recipe you like to help keep your clothes fresher and the environment safer.

DON’T Leave Stains Sitting Too Long

Stains only start to stain when they’ve been sitting too long. So, when a spill or accident happens it’s best to attack the mess immediately before it becomes your shirt’s newest tattoo. Rub the stain with a little dish soap and water before throwing it in for a quick wash.

You can’t avoid laundry day forever, but you can make it easier! Check out our GE washer and dryers and the innovative features they come with to make your laundry woes a thing of the past!

Amanda, Your Appliance Expert

4 Tips to Incorporate Spring Cleaning in Your Kitchen

4 Tips to Incorporate Spring Cleaning in Your Kitchen

Clean out those cabinets and wipe down your appliances with these easy tips this spring!

Declutter your Kitchen

Spring cleaning is all about getting into the deep, dark corners that never get washed, and thoroughly cleaning them. But it also means purging your home of unnecessary items you don’t need anymore. Start your mission off by opening each cabinet and kicking out the Tupperware, cups, and other utensils that clutter your space.

Make a DIY Cleaner

From glass to appliances, when it comes to your kitchen, all you need is one cleaner to do the job. Make your own organic, all-purpose spray with only a few simple ingredients: vinegar, castile soap, lavender or lemon essential oil, and water. Use this concoction on everything from your oven to your walls and wipe off with a microfibre washcloth.

Loading Whirlpool Dishwasher 3rd rack

Use Your Dishwasher

Obviously, you already use your dishwasher, but you probably only use it on things like your dirty dishes. It’s time to think outside the box for this spring cleaning and throw in a few unorthodox items that could use a good washing. Soap dishes, pet dishes, sponges, microwave trays, drip pans, spice containers, fridge shelves, and more!

Shop Whirlpool Dishwashers

Look for Expiration Dates

While the milk may be able to go a day or two longer than its expiration date, it’s important that you throw out everything that has already moved past its “best if used by” date. Remember that canned goods, pasta, and other non-perishables may last longer, but they still have a date they expire by.

Keep the place you eat spotless by using these tips while spring cleaning. And if you are looking to add pristine new appliances to your kitchen, stop by to see our selection of Whirlpool, Maytag, and KitchenAid appliances we have in store for you!

Amanda, Your Appliance Expert

How to Save Energy in Your Appliance Use

Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator with Camera

It cannot be stressed enough that you can shave a few bucks off your electricity bill by investing in efficient, Energy Star-certified appliances. A chief benefit of taking this leap is protecting the planet, so we wouldn’t wait too long! In the meantime, here are some tips everyone can adopt to save energy in our day-to-day appliance use.

Refrigerator

Sometimes, we have to spend a little to save a lot. This is the case when it comes to curbing energy use for most refrigerators. Since it comes down to limiting the number of times you open your fridge and freezer doors to preserve the interior temperature, we’d suggest investing in a glass-door model so that you can easily check if you need to add eggs to your shopping list.

If you’re feeling particularly generous toward the heart of your home, you might opt for a smart fridge like a Samsung Family Hub one (see image above) that comes with interior cameras from which you can have a live look at your refrigerator from your smartphone while you’re at the grocery store!

Samsung convection oven
Samsung Convection Oven

Oven Range

Instead of putting last night’s lasagna back in the oven or that leftover gumbo over the stove, we’d advise you to use a toaster oven or a microwave to heat up your meals. After all, these countertop appliances use less energy than conventional electric ranges.

And if you’re an impatient baker, we’d like to remind you to keep the oven door closed as you’re waiting for your brownies to be done. The internal temperature can drop by as many as 25 degrees each time you open the door, so just use the oven light to get a good look at your dessert! And if you’re whipping up something delicious on your Samsung cooktop, put a lid on it and try to keep it on as much as possible.

Dishwasher

Don’t dish it out if you can’t take it, so be sure to only leave the job to your dishwasher if you’ve got a full load of dinnerware to clean. Keeping with the theme of saving water, we’d also avoid using the rinse hold setting on your dishwasher, as this feature uses up to 7 times more gallons of hot water per use!

Plus, did you know that air drying your washed dishes on a rack instead of running them through your dishwasher’s drying cycle can significantly cut your appliance’s energy use?

Samsung Washer and dryer with Smart Care Feature
Samsung Washer and Dryer with Smart Care Feature

Washer

As is the case with dishwashers, wash only full loads of laundry to use up less water. In addition, we recommend washing clothes in cold water year-round, which could end up saving you around 60 dollars annually. While it is said that some laundry detergents work best in warm water, most of today’s detergents work just as well in cooler water.
As an added bonus: washing your knits in cold water is likely to cause less fraying, meaning you can enjoy your favourite sweater longer!

Dryer

We promise you these energy-saving tips won’t leave you high and dry. To prevent snags and pilling in your flannel sheets, clean your dryer’s lint filter regularly to keep your appliance running efficiently. The same goes for the tubing! Run the long nozzle of your vacuum cleaner down it to clean out pesky particles that snuck their way past the lint filter.

And of course, air dry whenever possible! While cold temperatures and sporadic showers make hanging your laundry outside a hard sell during some seasons, there are drying racks or vinyl-top tables you can use to sprawl out your damp laundry.

Lastly, remember to use a home energy monitor to help you understand which appliances are using the most electricity, and don’t forget to swing by our store to check out our wide array of Samsung energy-efficient appliances! Would you like more energy-saving tips? We’ve got you covered there, too.

Amanda, Your Appliance Expert