Some air vents are difficult to clean. Here is the utensil that will allow you deep cleaning.
If there are places in the house that we forget to clean, the VMC and window vents are among them. And yet, they play a crucial role in the circulation of air inside our homes. Unfortunately, they often accumulate dust, cooking grease, humidity, pollution, etc., thus compromising the quality of the air and the efficiency of the ventilation system.
Regular cleaning is therefore essential for healthy air and preserved health. While there are various products to perform this task, a kitchen utensil that everyone owns can be a handy tool for deep cleaning. Here’s how to clean the air vents using a knife. To be safe, take a knife with round ends.
Most air vents have clip-on covers that are easy to remove. Remove them, vacuum them and run them under clean water to remove most of the dust. Often, this is not enough. You can clean them with soapy water or water and white vinegar to degrease them thoroughly. Don’t hesitate to scrub with a toothbrush to get all over the grille. Dry the grilles well before reassembling them.
Sometimes the vents won’t come apart. In this case, start by vacuuming them to remove the biggest dirt. Then, dampen a cloth with soapy water or warm water and white vinegar. Wrap a soft cloth around a knife. Make sure the cloth is secure so it doesn’t slip while cleaning. Gently insert the wrapped knife into the slots of the vent. Use a back-and-forth motion to dislodge dust and dirt that has accumulated between the slats. The knife can reach hard-to-reach areas, ensuring a thorough clean.
For corners that the knife can’t reach, use an old toothbrush. Dip it in soapy water and gently scrub the affected areas. The toothbrush is great for fine details and tight areas. After cleaning the vents, use a damp cloth to wipe away excess soap and any remaining residue. Then, dry the vents thoroughly with a dry cloth to prevent mold from forming.