How to Clean Your Kitchen After Thanksgiving (Without Losing Your Mind)

The turkey was golden, the mashed potatoes were creamy, and everyone left with a full stomach and a smile. 🦃 But now… you’re standing in your kitchen surrounded by dirty dishes, greasy countertops, and a fridge stuffed with leftovers that might need their own zip code.

We’ve all been there. Thanksgiving cleanup can feel overwhelming — but with a little strategy (and maybe a little help from The Dust Devils), you can restore your kitchen to sparkling perfection without losing your sanity. Whether you’re in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, or Greenwood, these professional post-holiday cleaning tips will help you tackle grease, grime, and oven messes like a pro.

1. Start with the Dishes and Declutter

Before you tackle the heavy-duty cleaning, clear the chaos. Start by loading the dishwasher with glasses and plates. Soak pots, pans, and serving trays in hot, soapy water to loosen baked-on residue.

🧽 Dust Devils Pro Tip: Add a scoop of baking soda to your soaking water — it breaks down stubborn grease naturally and makes scrubbing easier later.

Once the dishes are soaking, take a few minutes to clear counters and store leftovers neatly in labeled containers. A clean surface instantly makes the room feel more manageable.

2. Wipe Down Countertops and Cabinets

Thanksgiving cooking often means splashes, spills, and grease that love to cling to your counters and cabinets. Use a gentle degreaser or mix equal parts warm water and vinegar to wipe everything down.

✅ Don’t forget:

• Backsplashes
• Handles and knobs
• The top of your refrigerator (trust us—it’s dusty!)

🍋 Dust Devils Pro Tip: Mix a few drops of lemon essential oil into your cleaning solution for a fresh scent that helps cut grease and leaves your kitchen smelling clean and bright.

3. Clean the Oven (Yes, Really)

This might be the least fun part, but it’s worth it! The oven takes a beating on Thanksgiving. Between turkey drippings and pie overflows, it’s time for a reset.

To clean naturally:

1. Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste.
2. Spread it inside the oven (avoid heating elements).
3. Let it sit overnight.
4. Wipe away with a damp cloth.
5. Spray vinegar to remove any residue and neutralize odors.

🔥 Dust Devils Pro Tip: If you’d rather skip the scrubbing, book a deep cleaning with The Dust Devils. We’ll handle the oven, stove, and kitchen grime with safe, professional-grade products.

4. Show Appliances Some Love

Thanksgiving can take a toll on your kitchen appliances. From the fridge to the microwave, each deserves a little TLC.

• 🧊 Refrigerator: Toss expired items, wipe down shelves with a mild cleaner, and use a baking soda box to keep odors at bay.
• ✨ Microwave: Heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for 3 minutes. The steam loosens splatters so you can wipe them right off.
• 🧺 Dishwasher: Run an empty cycle with vinegar and baking soda to remove food residue and freshen it up.
• 🔧 Dust Devils Pro Tip: Don’t forget the small stuff — wipe the toaster, coffee maker, and blender bases where crumbs and spills love to hide.

5. Finish with the Floors

Once your counters and appliances are clean, move on to the floors. Sweep thoroughly, then mop with a mix of warm water and vinegar (or your favorite gentle cleaner).

🏠 Dust Devils Pro Tip: For tile or vinyl, use a microfiber mop for streak-free shine. For hardwood, stick with a pH-neutral cleaner to protect your finish.

If your floors took a beating during the holiday, a professional cleaning can bring back that “just-mopped” look — without you lifting a finger.

FAQs: Post-Thanksgiving Cleaning

What’s the best way to remove grease from kitchen surfaces?

A mix of vinegar, water, and dish soap works wonders. For stubborn grease, sprinkle baking soda first, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Can I use natural cleaners on stainless steel?

Yes! Vinegar and water clean beautifully — just make sure to wipe with the grain using a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.

My oven still smells like turkey. What can I do?

Place a small bowl of baking soda or coffee grounds inside overnight — both absorb strong food odors naturally.

How can I make cleaning easier next year?

Line oven racks with foil or a silicone mat, and wipe spills as they happen. Or better yet — schedule recurring cleanings with The Dust Devils so you’re always ready for guests!

Do The Dust Devils offer post-holiday cleanings?

Yes! We specialize in post-event deep cleanings across Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Greenwood, Broad Ripple, and Irvington.

Why Indy Families Trust The Dust Devils

From pre-Thanksgiving prep to post-holiday cleanup, The Dust Devils make it easy to enjoy the season without the stress. Our experienced team uses safe, eco-friendly products and a detailed approach to make your kitchen sparkle again — no scrubbing marathon required.

✨ Choose from weekly, biweekly, or one-time deep cleaning to keep your home fresh and ready for the holidays.

📍 Serving Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Greenwood, Broad Ripple, Irvington, and Castleton