A decorative radiator.
Most homes nowadays have air conditioners and have completely forgotten about radiators. Though in some part of interior design, radiators are considered decor. Whether as functional or simply an art piece, radiators still need to be cleaned.
Onwards To Cleanliness!
Radiators are constructed in such a way that dust and dirt can become trapped inside and a thorough cleaning takes some time. Luckily, the process is simple and it doesn’t require any special equipment.
You’ll require:
- A dust cloth
- A towel
- Soft cloths
- Water
- Soap
- A bucket
- Sponges
- A measuring stick
- Wide tape
A yellow radiator and its pipes.
Start the cleaning process by vacuuming as much dust and dirt from around, in and underneath the radiator as possible. Wrap a dust cloth around the end of the measuring stick and secure it with a piece of tape around one end. Be careful when taping, not to cover up too much of the cloth. Next, spread a towel out and lay it underneath the radiator. Push the dust cloth on the stick from the top of the radiator to the bottom, pushing the dust and dirt down with it. Repeat this for each section of the radiator and don’t worry, the towel at the bottom, on the floor, will collect the dust as it comes loose and falls down.
Next, fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of soap and agitate until suds begin to form. Moisten a soft cloth with the soapy water and squeeze it out so it is slightly damp. Wipe down the exterior of the radiator and dry with a soft cloth to avoid rusting. Finally, look at the wall behind the radiator. The heat from the radiator can cause dust and dirt to stick to the walls, make sure you wash these areas with the warm, soapy water.
Helpful Advice
–Vacuum the radiators frequently to keep dirt and dust from building up.
–It is best to clean radiators in the summer, when they are not in use.
–If you are cleaning them in the winter, ensure they are turned off and have cooled down completely before cleaning.
–For radiators that are too condensed to push a dust cloth through, compressed air can be used to blow it out.
–Long circular brushes, similar to those used to clean dryer vents, are useful for cleaning between the grates on radiators.
–If you’re doing your move-out cleaning, you can add cleaning the radiator to your list of chores.
–Radiators can be removed for thorough cleanings outdoors, but this is often avoided. Draining, disconnecting and moving the radiator often causes more problems than it’s worth. Often it’s easier to clean it right where it is.
Tags: cleaning advice, domestic cleaning, home decor, how to, radiators