When the weather is nice, it can be fun and relaxing to get outside and enjoy nature. One way to do this is by having an outdoor kitchen installed. These types of kitchens are getting more popular every day.
But just as with an indoor kitchen, they need to be kept cleaned and maintained so you can enjoy it for many years.
How to Maintain Your Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens can be a lot of fun. There are so many outdoor alfresco kitchen ideas and designs to choose from, there is definitely one that will work with your home. They are perfect for entertaining and enjoying the beautiful weather.
Many people that have outdoor alfresco kitchens do not know how to keep care of them properly. Even though they are outside, they still require just as much care, if not more, than indoor kitchens.
Given that outdoor kitchens are always subjected to animals, insects, and the weather, they will experience a lot of wear and tear. To keep your investment looking good, proper maintenance is very important.
Below are some tips for how to maintain your outdoor kitchen.
- Clean the grill after every use
Do not leave your grill dirty. This will attract animals and insects. Always make sure you clean your grill thoroughly after every use. And while you are cleaning the grill, check all the components and hoses to ensure they are not damaged.
Replacing the damaged parts right away will help to ensure the grill will work properly the next time you go to use it.
- Take proper care of the stainless steel
A lot of outdoor kitchens have stainless steel appliances. This is because stainless steel is durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. Even though it is a tough material, it can still be damaged. Some tips for keeping your stainless steel looking new are:
- Clean the stainless steel regularly with soapy water. Do not use harsh chemicals or steel wool.
- Never cut directly on the surface. Always use a cutting board.
- Do not rest hot pans or dishes on stainless steel. If there is no other place to put them, always use a hot pad.
- Keep your refrigerator clean
Your outdoor refrigerator is just as important as your indoor fridge. Keep the outside of the fridge clean using soapy water. Use a mild detergent to clean the inside.
Unlike indoor refrigerators, outdoor models can handle weather changes. But once the temperature drops to below 4.45 degrees Celsius (40 degrees Fahrenheit) take the refrigerator inside.
It is important to read the manual to see exactly how to care for the refrigerator. If you notice that the fridge is not cooling properly, inquire about fridge repair before it fails.
- Do not overlook the fireplace
If you have an outdoor fireplace, you will want to keep it clean too. It may be impossible to clean it like the rest of the kitchen, but you can keep it free of debris. Scoop out all the ashes after they have cooled completely.
Just as with a home chimney, soot and creosote can build up. It is important to have it professionally cleaned yearly to prevent a fire.
- Clean the counters right away
Outdoor counters are often made from porous surfaces. If you drop or spill anything on them, clean them off immediately, so they are not stained. Keeping food off the counters will also help keep the animals away.
- Throw all trash away as soon as possible
Do not leave trash sitting around. It is important that it is thrown away immediately. Leaving trash sitting around can damage the countertops, and it will attract animals that can cause havoc.
- Cover the kitchen
To protect and extend the life of your outdoor kitchen, cover it when you are not using it. Covering it will protect it from rain, hail, snow, ice, and UV rays. It will also protect it from animals and their waste.
- Do Not Forget the Furniture
When you think of your outdoor kitchen, you may not think about the furniture. However, without the furniture, you cannot sit outside and enjoy your alfresco kitchen. Inspect the furniture often and clean off any mould and mildew.
And if any of the furniture is unsafe, replace it. To help keep your outdoor furniture lasting for years, cover it to protect it from the weather. If you cannot cover it, take it indoors.
Keep Your Outdoor Kitchen Maintained
Once you have an outdoor kitchen, you will not know how you survived without it. They are perfect for entertaining and relaxing. And using your outdoor kitchen during the summer months will keep the excess heat out of your home.
Outdoor kitchens are a financial investment. If you have an outdoor kitchen, it is a responsibility you should not ignore. This will help guarantee you and your family will be able to enjoy it for years to come.
By taking a few minutes after every use to maintain your outdoor kitchen, you will be protecting your investment.
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