Inspector's coming tomorrow, but your kitchen's still a disaster - what do you do?

Honestly, this is spot on. I’ve done the toothbrush grout thing too, and it never mattered. In my experience, inspectors care way more about function than crumbs or clutter. I always do a “lights and leaks” check - flip every switch, run water everywhere, make sure nothing’s dripping or sparking. If something’s sketchy, fix it or at least make it look like you tried. No one’s ever commented on my messy spice rack, but they will notice a missing outlet cover or a leaky faucet. Priorities, right?

I’ve done the toothbrush grout thing too, and it never mattered.

Couldn’t agree more with the “lights and leaks” check. I’ve found it’s the little, functional stuff that gets flagged every time. Outlet covers, loose handles, a wobbly faucet - those are cheap fixes but really stand out if you skip them. I used to stress over deep-cleaning the fridge, but honestly? Never came up once. I’d rather spend $5 tightening things than hours scrubbing grout no one notices. Priorities for sure.

I get the logic, but I gotta admit - one time I skipped the grout and the inspector actually commented on the “dingy” look in the kitchen. Guess it depends on the person? For me, I do a quick wipe-down on anything white or tile, just in case. But yeah, I won’t lose sleep over the fridge. If it’s not growing a new species, it’s fine.

If it’s not growing a new species, it’s fine.

Honestly, I’ve seen inspectors ding people for less. Grout lines really do make a difference - white tile especially shows everything. Quick tip: magic eraser on grout in the visible spots. Skip the fridge unless it’s actually gross.

Grout lines really do make a difference - white tile especially shows everything.

- 100% agree on the grout. I once had an inspector spend more time staring at my backsplash than the actual appliances.
- Quick wins: wipe counters, clear the sink, and yeah, magic eraser is clutch for those “high-traffic” spots.
- Fridge? Unless it’s a biohazard, just close the door and hope for the best.