July 15, 2026, 10:15 am | Read time: 4 minutes

The smell of new appliances often gives it away: Due to the production and treatment of surfaces, many substances are still present that we would prefer not to have near our food. Similar to clothing, new kitchen appliances should be prepared for use first. Some are quick to prepare, while others may take a few hours.

Preparing New Kitchen Appliances for Use

As with any production, various substances are used in kitchen appliances that you wouldn’t want in your home, but are essential during the manufacturing process.

Important: How each kitchen appliance should be treated before first use can be found in the included instruction manual.

1. Microwave

Microwaves should not be placed directly next to refrigerators, TVs, or radios, as they can affect them. They should be positioned so that there is at least 20 centimeters of space on both sides from other appliances or furniture. The back of the appliance should be directly against a wall, as hot air can be generated during use, which could cause injuries. Before first use, consider the following:

1. Remove all packaging materials and accessories from the cooking chamber.
2. Clean the microwave with a damp cloth and dish soap before use.
3. It is occasionally recommended to leave the microwave open for a few hours to allow it to acclimate to room temperature.

2. Toaster

Since the appliance emits heat in the kitchen, it should not be placed next to the stove–it could overheat. As the heat escapes upwards, it should also not be placed directly under a hanging cabinet. Additionally, the toaster should not be accessible to small children. Also, consider the following before first use:

1. Remove all packaging remnants and films.
2. Run the toaster on the highest setting several times. Place the toaster by the window to allow the smell to dissipate.

Also interesting: Here are the places in the kitchen where most bacteria lurk

3. Oven

A new oven should always be “burned in.” This also removes the somewhat strong smell often associated with new products. To burn in the oven, you only need dish soap, water, a cloth, and a bucket. Here’s how:

1. Remove all accessories such as baking trays and racks from the oven. The oven should be empty for burning in.
2. Remove all packaging remnants and films.
3. Clean the interior with warm soapy water or a vinegar mixture.
4. Now heat the empty and closed oven. Set it to the highest setting. The exact duration should be found in the instruction manual.
5. Once the oven has completely cooled, wipe it down again with a damp cloth.

Important: After burning in, ventilate the kitchen well to allow the smell to dissipate.

4. Kettle

It is generally recommended to clean the kettle before first use and at least every two weeks. Usually, it is sufficient to clean the kettle with hot water before first use.

1. Remove all accessories.
2. Fill the kettle to its maximum capacity.
3. Discard the water after it has been heated.
4. If necessary (for example, if there are unpleasant odors), repeat the process.

5. Refrigerator

Before starting up the refrigerator, follow these steps:

• Before the refrigerator is powered, it should stand for at least two hours to allow the coolant to settle.
• Then wipe down the refrigerator with a damp cloth and dish soap–especially the interior of the appliance.
• Assemble the interior fittings of the refrigerator, such as shelves and drawers, as described in the instruction manual.

Also interesting: Smelly refrigerator? These 4 home remedies help

6. Dishwasher

Some models come with a self-test for water hardness to prepare the appliance for first use. Other steps:

• It is generally necessary to fill the appropriate container with salt before first use. Only if the water in the respective region is very soft can this be omitted.
• Also, fill the rinse aid according to the instruction manual.
• Before first use, run the dishwasher empty once for cleaning, preferably at a high temperature.

7. Cutlery and Knives

It’s not just new kitchen appliances that require attention. New dishes should also be thoroughly washed before first use. It doesn’t matter whether this is done by hand or in the dishwasher. When washing by hand, the water should be as hot as possible to eliminate potential dirt or germs.