Working in a clean and tidy kitchen is sheer joy. However, what must disgust you is the grease and grime that accumulates on the faucets and taps. It is a daunting task to remove them. Their shine not only vanishes but also spoils the aesthetics and functionality of the kitchen.
Moreover, the clogged faucets make washing jobs much more difficult and time-consuming. With the proper care and the right ways, you can easily clean greasy taps and cloggy faucets in the kitchen. This article will reveal the dos and don’ts that will help you achieve shiny and sparkling fixtures without causing any damage. Note that regular maintenance should be included in your cleaning routine for your kitchen to sparkle.
5 Dos To Clean Kitchen Taps And Faucets
- Regular Cleaning Routine
Pick up the habit of regular cleaning of taps and faucets in your kitchen. You can use a mild soap or dishwashing liquid mixed with warm water to wipe down the surfaces. Use a soft cloth or sponge to remove dirt, grime, and water spots without scratching the finish. If the taps and faucets have stubborn stains, use a paste of baking soda and waste.
- Vinegar Soak For Mineral Deposits
Often hard water leaves mineral deposits on taps and faucets, making them appear dull and clogged. The solution to the problem is to periodically soak the affected areas with white vinegar, The acidic properties of vinegar help dissolve the mineral deposits thus making them shine like new. This method opens the clogs and ensures a proper flow of water through your fixtures. Simply soak a paper towel in vinegar and wrap it around the faucet or tap. Leave it for a few hours or overnight rinse with water and wipe dry.
- Use Non-Abrasive Cleaners
When you’re choosing your cleaning products for your taps and faucets, look for non-abrasive cleaners that are gentle on the surfaces. Make sure to avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or scouring pads as they can scratch or damage the finish, leading to corrosion and deterioration with time. Opt for mild cleaners or natural solutions like lemon juice or diluted vinegar for effective and safe cleaning.
- Regular Maintenance Checks
Keep track of the regular maintenance checks to ensure the taps and faucets are working. Investigate signs of leaks, drips, or loose fittings that may indicate underlying issues. With the help of a plumber or you tighten the loose connections and replace worn-out washers or seals to prevent waste of water and any further damage
- Install Water Filters Or Softeners
Invest in installing water filters or softeners to reduce the mineral content in your water supply. This prevents future deposition of minerals on taps and faucets, thus extending their lifespan and maintaining optimal performance. Besides, water filters also remove impurities and contaminants. Softeners, on the other hand, minimises the harshness of water by omitting calcium and magnesium ions, thereby preventing scale buildup.
The Don’ts To Keep Your Kitchen Taps And Faucets Clean
- Avoid Abrasive Cleaning Tools
Do not use abrasive cleaning tools such as steel wool, abrasive brushes, or harsh pads on your taps of faucets. These abrasive materials can lead to a scratch or etch on the surface finish, making it prone to corrosion and staining. It is advisable that you use soft clothes, sponges, or brushes which have gentle bristles to preserve the functionality and aesthetic of the fixtures.
- Don't Neglect Drying After Cleaning
Always after cleaning your kitchen taps and faucets, dry them thoroughly with the help of a clean, dry cloth. Moisture left in the fixtures can promote the growth of mold, mildew, and water spots, undoing your cleaning efforts. Make sure all the surfaces are completely dry to maintain a long-lasting sparkle.
- Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals
Do not use harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or chlorine-based cleansers when cleaning faucets and taps are considered. These chemicals can corrode the metal finish, remove the protective coatings, and discolouration or pitting. Always stick to mild and eco-friendly cleaners or natural alternatives safe for the fixtures and the environment.
- Avoid Excessive Force When Operating
Handle taps and faucets with care and avoid applying excessive pressure or force when operating them. If you turn the handles too forcefully or pull or push the lever with force, it can damage the internal mechanisms, thus leading to leaks or malfunctions. Gentle and controlled movements extend their longevity.
- Do Not Use Extreme Hot Water
Although hot water can help loosen grease and grime, it can increase the problem. Hot water can cause grease to melt and spread, making it more difficult to remove it from the taps of faucets. It is advisable to start with warm water to help loosen the grease, following up with gentle cleaning.
