When it comes to cleaning your kitchen, accumulated oil and grease are your archenemies. This problem is further magnified in Indian kitchens that frequently witness the preparation of cuisines that demand a lot of oil. If not cleaned regularly, oil and grease can accumulate on the walls. This not only impacts the visual appeal of your kitchen, but also makes getting rid of the buildup a task with time. In this article, we will explore some sureshot ways to remove oil and grease from your kitchen walls for a hygienic and vibrant space.
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Dish soap and water
This weapon is a must in your armoury to battle any kind of stain or grime buildup. Simply mix a few drops of mild dish soap in some warm water. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution and gently scrub off the grease stains from the walls. To remove any soap residues, gently rinse the area with clean water. This method is suitable for tiled walls and works like a charm on mild to moderate stains and buildups.
Vinegar
White vinegar is a powerful cleaning agent to tackle various kinds of stains. Use this as a solution by mixing it with equal parts of water and spray or apply directly onto the grease stains on the walls. Allow it to sit for a few minutes for effective penetration and wipe off with a clean cloth, preferably dampened with clean water to get rid of any residue in the process.
Baking soda
Who knew this kitchen essential provides cleaning benefits as well? To get rid of grease and oil stains using baking soda, simply make a paste by mixing it with water to achieve a thick consistency. Apply it directly on the stains and let it sit for around 15 minutes for absorption. Scrub the area gently using a sponge or brush to get rid of tougher stains and gently rinse with water to remove the residue.
Lemon juice
The acidic properties of lemon juice makes it an effective cleanser against oil and grease. You can directly squeeze or apply lemon juice on the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes to act on the grease and break it down. Then wipe it off with a damp cloth to remove it along with the grease residue. Not only does this get rid of grease stains but also leaves the area smelling clean and fresh.
Ammonia
An effective cleanser due to its powerful chemical properties, ammonia needs to be diluted for safe use. Mix some household ammonia with four parts water and apply the solution directly on the stains on the walls. Allow it to sit for a while and dissolve the grease before carefully wiping off the area with a clean, damp cloth to get rid of any residue.
Commercial degreasers
Commercial degreasers available in the market are convenient and effective ways of getting rid of grease buildup. Follow the instructions provided on the product and apply on the area as directed. Allow it to penetrate for the required amount of time and wipe off using a clean cloth as directed.
Steam cleaning
Steam can be helpful in removing grease buildup if you do not wish to use complicated products and remedies. Simply get your hands on a steam cleaner and fill it with water as specified by the manufacturer. Turn it on to heat it up and hold the nozzle close to the affected area for effective and targeted cleaning. Once the buildup loosens, simply wipe away with a clean cloth.
Diluted bleach
Bleach is yet another must-have in your cleaning arsenal. For removing grease stains, mix a small amount in water and dilute according to the instructions provided. Use a sponge to apply the diluted mixture on the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes to act upon the grease and dissolve it. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove any residue that might be left behind.
FAQs
Can I use just water to clean grease off kitchen walls?
Water might help to remove surface-level buildup but you might require other degreasing agents to tackle tougher stains.
Is it safe to use bleach to remove grease from kitchen walls?
Bleach is an effective way to remove grease as long as it is used with caution and in a properly diluted form.
Can I use vinegar to remove grease from painted walls?
Vinegar is safe to use as a degreasing agent on painted surfaces. It is recommended to use it in a diluted form and test on a small area for compatibility.
Will steam cleaning remove grease buildup from kitchen walls?
Steam cleaning is a chemical-free method to tackle grease stains that can organically get rid of tough buildup easily.
How often should I clean grease off kitchen walls?
Deep cleaning your kitchen walls once a month is recommended to prevent heavy buildup. However, the precise frequency depends on usage factors and buildup levels.
What should I do if the grease has stained the paint on my kitchen walls?
If the buildup has penetrated the paint, you might have to use a strong chemical solution or a grease-cutting primer to get rid of it before repainting.
Are there any natural alternatives to commercial degreasers for cleaning kitchen walls?
Baking soda, lemon juice and vinegar are effective natural alternatives to the commercial chemical degreasing agents.
| 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 |
