How to Clean Your Kitchen Chimney – A Step-by-step Guide
What does the word ‘chimney’ remind you? To us, the chimney is a magical portal for Santa Claus to come in and leave gifts for the good kids. A soot-streaked is the sentry of smoke and the bane of any homemaker’s spring cleaning routine, not to mention, that Santa isn’t going to be happy with that. But beyond making Santa’s descent smoother, keeping your chimney clean is one of the most important things for a healthy and hygienic kitchen.
Unfortunately, cleaning the chimney is a task that gets overlooked quite often, resulting in tough-to-remove grease and smoke accumulations. But don’t worry, we got it covered. Here is a practical guide to help you take down this heavy task.
Why Cleaning the Kitchen Chimney Matters
Every time we cook, oil particles, smoke, and fumes are trapped by the chimney filters. Over time these deposits accumulate and clog the filters, reducing the suction power of the chimney. This gives rise to an unpleasant odor and makes the whole experience unhygienic. If soot doesn’t get sucked out by your chimney, they might escape through to your other rooms and discolor your walls.
Keeping the chimney clean has multiple benefits including:
- Efficient Performance
- Prolonged Lifespan
- Better Air Quality
Tools and Supplies for A Cleaner Chimney
Before diving into the cleaning mode yourselves, it’s important to collect all the tools and supplies you need for this task. Here are the essentials:
- Rubber Gloves
- Warm Water
- Dishwashing Liquid
- Vinegar
- Baking Soda
- Soft Scrubber
- Old toothbrush (for corners and tough spots)
- Microfiber cloth
- Bucket
These supplies will ease our effort against dirt by assisting us in cleaning.
Step-by-Step Chimney Cleaning Guide
Step 1: Switching the appliance off
The first step is to turn off and unplug your chimney from the power source. This will prevent any electricity-related accidents.
Step 2: Remove the filters
Most kitchen chimneys come with a detachable filter which makes them easy to clean. (Check your chimney’s manual). After removing the filter, inspect them for grease buildup. Replace them, if needed.
Step 3: Preparing the cleaning solution
To prepare a natural cleaning solution mix:
- 2 cups of warm water
- A few drops of vinegar or dishwashing liquid.
- 2 tablespoons of baking soda
Leave the filters soaked in this solution for 20-30 minutes. This will help loosen the grime. You can also use Branch Basics’ all-purpose cleansing solution.
Step 4: Scrub the Filters
- Use a soft scrubber to gently clean the filters. If the grease feels too stubborn, use an old toothbrush.
- Avoid using any abrasive material. It might damage the filters.
Step 5: Clean the Exterior and Interior
Time to put our microfiber cloth to use. Dip it in a cleaning solution and wipe the exterior and accessible interior parts. Pay special attention while cleaning the edges and the exhaust – they are the hotspots where the majority of grease accumulates.
Step 6: Rinse and Dry
After removing the grease rinse the filter with warm water and allow them to air dry.
After they are completely dry, reattach them. Clean the outer surfaces using a dry microfibre cloth.
Step 7: Reassembling and Testing time
After everything is clean and dry, reassemble all the parts. Finally, test the chimney by plugging it back into the power source.
Grease Removal Tips for Chimney
Magical Duo
Baking soda and vinegar together make a magical cleaning duo. They are natural and cut through grease effectively. Since they are easily available at home, they are your buddies for an impromptu midnight, stress cleaning session,
Hot Water Soaks
Hot water makes grease dissolve easily and makes the scrubbing process smoother.
Being Consistent
A stitch in time saves nine. Similarly, regularly cleaning your kitchen chimney, at least every 6 months will prevent excessive grease buildup.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals can damage the filter and over time, the finish. Instead, you opt for cleaners that are free from harsh chemicals like the Concentrate from BranchBasics.
Effective Kitchen Chimney Cleaning Tips
Soaking and scrubbing are basic techniques when it comes to cleaning the kitchen chimney, but there are many more effective techniques as well, like:
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice can increase the cleaning power of the cleaning solution as it helps break down grease more effectively. Also, it adds a fresh scent.
Dedicated Grease Remover
If the grease feels too tough to remove and your hands are giving out from the scrubbing, opt for dedicated grease cleaners, While there are plenty of varieties available in the market, always go for mild degreasing products. They do not damage the surface they are being applied to but get the job done.
Maintenance Tips for a Clean Chimney
Ensuring your kitchen chimney is clean is crucial, yet it’s an often neglected task that can lead to bigger problems. Here are some tips that’ll help you maintain your kitchen chimney clean.
- Regularly wipe the exterior portion of the chimney to prevent grease stains.
- Avoid using the chimney for heavy and long frying sessions without cleaning often.
- Get professional deep cleaning solutions at least once a year for optimal efficiency.
If cleaning the kitchen chimney yourself feels like a chore and you have been putting them off, call for professional help. At Vella, we handle things with care and defeat grease every day. With our dedicated team of professional housekeepers, we are always ready to help you maintain a happy and healthy environment at home. Our housekeepers use effective, non-toxic products to deliver a spotless and fresh kitchen environment and help maintain a clean kitchen. After all, your family deserves the best.
When cleaning feels overwhelming, let Vella step in. Our housekeepers will ensure your chimney and the entire kitchen stays sparkling bright without any hassle. Whether it’s a battle against grease or a challenge to maintain a healthy environment, we are here – right by your side, ready to support you with our quality cleaning services!