A kitchen deep clean would normally include the entire kitchen fabric. The entire kitchen structure including any canopies would be thoroughly degreased from top to bottom, while all kitchen equipment, where practical, would be dismantled, cleaned, sanitised and re-assembled by trained operatives.
Accumulations of grease-laden deposits in extraction ventilation systems present a significant fire hazard. A competent cleaning company will provide a specialist service to clean kitchen extract systems, from the installation of Camlock access doors to a complete deep clean of the system.
A professional kitchen deep clean should deep clean ceilings, walls, work areas, appliances, ventilation, luminaires, floors, pipework and drainage.
Special attention should be paid to:
- Kitchen structure (ceilings, vents, walls and floors)
- Ovens – gas or electric
- Deep fat fryers
- Combi/steam ovens
- Bain-marie hot cupboards
- Griddle plates
- Grills and char-grills
- Hot/cold food preparation areas
- Walk-in refrigerators, standard fridges and freezers
- All other equipment within the kitchen and adjoining areas
Systematic Kitchen Cleaning Process
To achieve a successful kitchen deep clean, it is important to go about the process in a logical and systematic way.
Starting with a thorough cleaning audit will allow you to identify what needs cleaning.
Prior to cleaning the kitchen itself all electrical items are isolated and exposed switches covered with a waterproof tape of polythene cover.
Cleaning Kitchen Appliances in a Dip Tank
Firstly, the various appliances need to be dismantled so that their components can be assembled for immersion in a “dip tank”. A dip tank is a vessel that is filled with hot water and a suitable degreaser for the job at hand. Components that can be removed for dipping include; grease filters, oven trays, range tops and rings, fryer pans, grill trays, dismantled fan units as well as other heavily soiled items.
The components are immersed in the dip tank and timed according to the manufacturers’ guidelines.
Some kitchen items will be best cleaned in an outside area. These are assembled and removed from the kitchen.
Where possible, equipment is pulled out to ensure that thorough cleaning can be achieved both beneath and behind the equipment.
Internal Kitchen Cleaning
When kitchen deep cleaning, the inside areas to be cleaned should have all excess grease scraped off using wire brushes or scrapers, prior to applying an appropriate cleaning solution to the surfaces. Once cleaned, all excess dirt and cleaning chemicals are cleaned off all surfaces.
Walls and ceilings are normally steam cleaned with a steam vacuum appliance before the equipment is returned into position.
Cooking and preparation areas are sanitised.
Cleaning Kitchen Floors
Floor areas are then thoroughly cleaned with a floor scrubber, steam cleaner and wet vacuum.
Finally, further attention is given to detail: skirtings, corners, pipework, legs and wheels are all inspected and re-cleaned if necessary, all rubbish and debris is removed, outside areas tidied up.
The client (if present) should be invited to inspect the work and once satisfied, asked to sign a Customer Satisfaction Form.

Monitoring Kitchen Cleaning with CAFM Technology
Implementing an effective traffic light management system makes it simple to monitor cleaning productivity. Plus, the latest FM software technology, Computer-Aided Facilities Management (CAFM) means cleaning services has never been so easy to manage. Utilising CAFM technology (alongside expert staff and thorough cleaning) allows you to cleverly manage your workspace and enjoy cost-saving measures.
CAFM’s Helpdesk application provides a simple, efficient and reliable web solution for both reactive and planned maintenance.
With intuitive on-screen alerts, filters and search functionality, CAFM can be configured to meet exact requirements. CAFM software makes the kitchen cleaning lifecycle effortless, with automated processes such as email updates and triggered alerts in place to improve service levels and maintain cleaner efficiency.
Alongside the kitchen cleaning programme, the Planned, Preventative Maintenance (PPM) functionality within CAFM assists with the full lifecycle of all scheduled maintenance, enabling the Facilities Management team to plan ahead and pre-empt future work. When the schedule determines that planned maintenance work is due, the software will automatically generate a Work Order into the Helpdesk.
Combining kitchen deep cleaning, regular cleaning, with expert facilities management is just part of the service with RFM!
FAQ about What Should be Included in Kitchen Deep Cleaning
Q: What is kitchen deep cleaning?
A: Kitchen deep cleaning is a thorough and comprehensive cleaning process that aims to remove dirt, grime, and bacteria from every surface, appliance, and equipment in the kitchen.
Q: What should be included in kitchen deep cleaning?
A: Kitchen deep cleaning should include the cleaning of all surfaces, appliances, and equipment such as ovens, stovetops, refrigerators, sinks, cabinets, floors, walls, and ceilings. It should also include the cleaning of hard-to-reach areas such as the backsplash, grout lines, and vents.
Q: How often should I deep clean my kitchen?
A: It is recommended to deep clean your kitchen at least once every three months or as needed depending on the amount of use and traffic in the area.
Q: Can I deep clean my kitchen myself, or should I hire a professional?
A: You can deep clean your kitchen yourself if you have the time, proper cleaning equipment and products, and knowledge of how to clean different surfaces and appliances. However, hiring a professional cleaning service may be a better option for those who do not have the time, expertise, or energy to do it themselves.
Q: What cleaning products should I use for kitchen deep cleaning?
A: You should use non-toxic, food-safe, and eco-friendly cleaning products such as baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, and natural dish soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage surfaces and appliances. Different cleaning agents have different uses on various surfaces.
Q: How long does it take to deep clean a kitchen?
A: The time it takes to deep clean a kitchen depends on the size, level of dirt and grime, and the amount of equipment and appliances that need cleaning. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to complete.
Q: What are the benefits of kitchen deep cleaning?
A: The benefits of kitchen deep cleaning include a cleaner, healthier, and more hygienic environment, improved indoor air quality, reduced risk of foodborne illness, and increased lifespan of appliances and equipment.
Q: How can I maintain a clean kitchen after deep cleaning?
A: You can maintain a clean kitchen after deep cleaning by regularly wiping down surfaces and appliances after use, sweeping or vacuuming the floors daily, avoiding leaving dirty dishes in the sink, and practising good food hygiene habits such as storing food properly and disposing of waste promptly.
A full glossary of cleaning terms can be found in RFM Group’s Industry Terms in Cleaning Glossary.