Dirty radiators: here's the products to make them shine like new again
Yellowed, stained radiators are an eyesore that need to be dealt with almost every year in the home. Given the delicate nature of these appliances, however, we may shy away from cleaning radiators properly and thoroughly.
Fortunately, there are commonly-found, non-aggressive products which you can use to clean the radiators in your home - read on to find out more:
Sodium bicarbonate
Sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda) is a salt-like substance composed of sodium ions and bicarbonate ions. It is often used for cleaning chores thanks to its high abrasive and whitening power.
Baking soda can be safely used to remove yellow stains from radiators. To do this, first mix baking soda with water to form a thick paste.
Then, smear this paste over the radiator and rub in, making sure to use a non-abrasive sponge.
If the yellow staining is particularly stubborn, you can leave the paste on for half an hour before rubbing it in for a more powerful cleansing.
Marseille soap
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Marseille soap is another great product for cleaning radiators as it is an extremely delicate and can be used in both liquid and solid forms.
To remove any yellow stains, we recommend pouring liquid Marseille soap onto a soft cloth and then using it to remove the staining by rubbing it directly on the radiator.
If you only have solid Marseille soap available, you can grate it into flakes, melt the flakes in a bain-marie and then use it once it's turned liquid.
White vinegar
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If neither baking soda nor Marseille soap can remove the stains, you could use white vinegar which is a great natural cleaner that can remove stubborn dirt.
Pour half a glass of white vinegar and a few drops of dishwashing liquid into a liter of water. Protect the floor under the radiator with cloths or cardboard and spray the mixture on the radiator.
Take care to get into all the nooks and crannies by spraying the mixture onto a sponge and applying it directly to the radiator. Finally, rinse everything off and dry with a soft cloth.
Why is it important to clean radiators regularly?
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Regular cleaning of radiators is essential to ensure they function optimally.
Accumulated dust and dirt acts as a layer of insulation and reduces the efficiency of radiators. Additionally, during operation, these particles can become airborne, impacting the air quality in your home.
By cleaning your radiators regularly, you also get the chance to identify any problems early on, such as leaks, rust developing or other damage, which may require immediate attention.
In summary, baking soda, Marseille soap and white vinegar are fantastic cleaning "friends" which you should always have at thome to make your household cleaning chores easier.