Kitchen walls are the unsung heroes of our culinary adventures. They shield us from splatters and spills, but over time, this can lead to a buildup of greasy grime. Follow these 5 powerful tips to banish oil and grease from your kitchen walls, leaving them sparkling clean.
See also: How to use multi-purpose cleaning products?.
Hot water and dish soap
For everyday grease, a simple solution of hot water and dish soap is often all you need. Fill a bucket with hot (not boiling) water, add a generous squirt of dish soap and stir well. Dip a non-abrasive sponge or microfiber cloth into the solution, wring it out slightly so it’s damp, not dripping and wipe down the greasy areas. Rinse the sponge frequently in clean water to prevent spreading the grease. This gentle yet effective method is perfect for routine cleaning.
Baking soda paste
For tougher grease, baking soda comes to the rescue. It’s a natural deodoriser and mild abrasive that lifts away grime. Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a little water until it forms a thick consistency. Apply the paste to the greasy areas and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. The baking soda will absorb the oil. Wipe away the paste with a damp sponge, rinsing the sponge often. For stubborn stains, you may need to scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush.
Vinegar tricks
Vinegar’s natural acidity makes it a fantastic degreaser. Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray the greasy area liberally and let it sit for 10 minutes. The vinegar will loosen the grease. Wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth and rinse the area with clean water. Important Note: Avoid using vinegar on unsealed stone surfaces like granite or marble, as the acidity can etch the stone.
Lemon solution
Lemon juice, another natural degreaser, can be a refreshing alternative to vinegar. Cut a lemon in half and rub it directly on the greasy area. Let the lemon juice sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth and rinse with water. This method is particularly effective on greasy fingerprints.
Commercial degreasers
For heavily stained walls or baked-on grease, a commercial degreaser might be necessary. Choose a product specifically formulated for kitchen walls and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Always test the product in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage your paint or wallpaper. Wear gloves and ensure proper ventilation when using commercial cleaning products.
Bonus tip: Prevention is key
The best defence against greasy walls is a good offence. Regularly wipe down your kitchen walls after cooking, especially around the stovetop and oven. Use splatter screens while frying or sautéing to minimise grease splatter. By tackling grease buildup early and preventing future splatters, you can keep your kitchen walls looking fresh and clean.
With these tips in your arsenal, your kitchen walls will be gleaming in no time! Remember, the key is to start with the gentlest method and escalate only if necessary. Happy cleaning!
FAQs
What if my dish soap solution isn't strong enough?
If hot water and dish soap don't cut it, move on to the baking soda paste or vinegar solution. Baking soda is a natural option, while vinegar offers a stronger clean (avoid on stone surfaces!).
Can I mix baking soda with vinegar?
While both are degreasers, mixing them creates a fizzy reaction that might not be effective. Use them separately for best results.
Is bleach okay to use on greasy walls?
Bleach is a strong disinfectant, but it's not ideal for kitchen grease. It can damage paint and wallpaper. Stick to degreasing solutions.
How often should I clean my kitchen walls?
For routine maintenance, wipe down walls with hot, soapy water after heavy cooking. For a deeper clean, address greasy buildup every few months.
Will these methods remove grease stains entirely?
For long-standing stains, some trial and error might be needed. Start with gentler methods and progress to stronger solutions if necessary.
What about using abrasive cleaners on my walls?
Avoid abrasive scrubbers or scouring powders, as they can scratch the paint or wallpaper. Opt for soft sponges, microfiber cloths or soft-bristled brushes.
Is there anything I can do to prevent greasy buildup
Absolutely! Use splatter screens while cooking, wipe down walls after heavy cooking sessions and keep your exhaust fan running to vent smoke and grease.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
