What to Do Before Using Your New Kitchen

by Debbie Goldberg 11/22/2020

You recently purchased a home, and as a new homeowner, you’re itching to get moved into your new kitchen so you can get settled and start entertaining. Wait! Before you get caught up organizing your pots and pans, do a little preventative care. If you want a kitchen you can entertain in hassle-free, take the time to do these things.

Deep Clean

Whether you purchased new construction or an adorable 1920s bungalow, you need to deep clean. Either hire a reputable company, or take on the task yourself, but do it. Clean all the cabinets high and low, doors, knobs, any framing, behind and under all appliances that may have come with the house.

Next to tackle the sink hardware. Clean the faucet, remove calcium build up and run drain cleaner to preventatively tackle any clogs hidden just under the surface.

If your home came with an oven and dishwasher, use the self-clean settings they have and clean them yourself after. Starting with a fresh, clean slate will ensure your kitchen stays in good shape with just a little ongoing maintenance.

Test and Clean Your Hardware

Check that all cabinet doorknobs and drawer pulls are properly attached. Make sure that all your drawer tracks align and slide in and out well. Ensure that all hinges are tight and squared.

Pest Control

Check your countertop and backsplash for any cracks or holes that could be the perfect escape route for any ants or roaches that may try to find a way into your home in the future. Seal up any gaps you find with caulking or grout. Then, treat the whole kitchen with preventative pest control. You can find industrial-grade solutions online that are very affordable and will last you through the lifetime of your house. Once you treat the kitchen space, you’ll want to let it stand for at least a few hours before you wipe down the counters again and start putting away your belongings.

Preparing your kitchen for daily use and entertaining is important and is not an area you want to neglect during your move in. With these steps you’ll be ready to get things organized just the way you like and get to entertaining.

About the Author

Debbie Goldberg

I'm a full time Realtor with over 30 years of experience yet young enough to embrace today's ever-changing scope of marketing and technology. Having grown up in Connecticut and moved many times (too many to count!) I can empathize with today's buyers and sellers. Strictly maintaining ethical standards and being a fierce advocate on behalf of my clients are things I take very seriously. As a buyer, you can expect me to listen to and evaluate your real estate wants and needs. I can assist in explaining relevant forms, agreements, and closing procedures. I will guide you through the process of finding the right home, negotiating your offer, adhering to all contract dates and terms as well as final walk through and closing procedures. As a seller, I will listen to and evaluate your goals, needs, and timing in order to properly price your home to get the maximum exposure needed to attract the right buyers. In addition to negotiating on your behalf, I will make sure we communicate throughout the entire process as we navigate the contract terms, finance and inspection contingencies, as well as all closing procedures. I was born in Japan, grew up in Hamden and lived in New York, Ohio and Southern California before settling down in New Haven county to raise two kids, two dogs and a cat. I'm passionate about good food and love to bake. Some of my free time has been spent volunteering at Temple Beth Sholom, a synagogue where my family has been members for over 40 years. I also spend time at Tower One/Tower East, an assisted living center in New Haven where my mother-in-law now resides. 30 years of helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals has given me the peace of mind to know that what I do everyday matters. If you are thinking of buying or selling please keep me in mind.