An AGA cooker is a symbol of tradition, reliability, and style in many homes. With its unique cast iron design and radiant heat system, it requires a different approach to cleaning than conventional ovens.
Regular cleaning is essential not only for its appearance but also for ensuring it performs efficiently and lasts for years. This guide will walk you through the steps of cleaning your beloved AGA, ensuring it remains a centrepiece of your kitchen.
Maintaining the cleanliness of your AGA isn’t just about aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in its functionality. Cooking spills and food particles, if left unattended, can accumulate and affect the AGA’s performance over time.
By following this detailed guide, you can keep your AGA looking pristine and working smoothly, without the risk of damaging its surfaces or internal components.
Preparing for the Clean
Before diving into the cleaning process, the first step is to ensure that your AGA is turned off and has had ample time to cool down. Cleaning a hot cooker can be not only dangerous but also ineffective, as many cleaners are not designed to work on heated surfaces.
It’s also important to remove any pots, pans, or accessories from the cooker before you begin. This ensures that you have easy access to every part of your AGA that needs cleaning.
Once the AGA is cool, gather all the necessary tools for the job. You’ll need a wire brush, non-abrasive cloths, AGA enamel cleaner, and a chrome or stainless-steel cleaner if your model has chrome lids.
Laying down old towels or sheets around the cooker can help protect your floors and countertops from any spills or dirt that may be dislodged during cleaning. Proper preparation will save time and ensure a thorough, efficient clean.
Cleaning the Hotplates and Lids
The hotplates on your AGA are the most used parts so they will naturally get covered in food residue and burnt on deposits. To clean the hotplates you will need to use a wire brush or similar to scrub off the carbon build up.
Do this gently but firmly, don’t use harsh abrasives that will damage the surface. Then wipe down with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt.
The lids also play a big part in your AGA’s efficiency so keeping them in good nick is important. Many AGA cookers have chrome lids which can tarnish over time.
To restore the shine apply a non abrasive chrome cleaner with a soft cloth and buff in circular motions. This will keep them looking polished and protect the lids from rust and damage.
The Enamel Surface
The enamel exterior of an AGA cooker is iconic but it’s also delicate. You must use a cleaner specifically designed for enamel surfaces as standard oven cleaners can be too harsh and damage the enamel.
First wipe down the surface with a damp cloth to remove any loose dirt or crumbs. Then apply the enamel cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a soft cloth to gently scrub the surface, focusing on any stains or splashes.
To get the glossy finish back buff the enamel with a clean dry cloth once the cleaning solution has been wiped off. Note the enamel is tough but can still be scratched so don’t use anything too abrasive.
Regular care will keep your AGA’s enamel looking as good as new, even after years of use in a busy kitchen.
Cleaning the Inside of the Ovens
AGA’s are often forgotten when it comes to cleaning the inside. Start by removing the shelves and trays, soak them in hot soapy water to loosen the grease and food bits.
Once clean, leave them to air dry and then put them back in the oven. Inside the oven use a cloth or sponge to wipe down the surfaces.
If there’s any stubborn grime a gentle scrub with hot soapy water will do but don’t use harsh chemicals as it will damage the oven’s coating.
If you use your AGA heavily it’s essential to clean the ovens more often. Over time grease can build up on the walls and ceiling of the oven and affect the heat distribution and cooking performance.
To prevent this make it a habit to wipe down the interior after heavy cooking and deep clean every few months. This will keep your AGA efficient and give you consistent cooking results.
The Flue and Vents
One of the often forgotten areas in AGA cleaning is the flue and vents. These are important parts of your cooker as they allow heat and fumes to escape.
Soot and debris can accumulate over time and cause blockages that reduce efficiency or even give off unpleasant smells.
It’s recommended to have the flue professionally cleaned periodically but you can do your part by checking for visible obstructions and removing any build up around the vents.
Keeping the vents clean will keep your AGA running smoothly and maintain its energy efficiency. This is especially important in solid fuel models where soot can build up quicker.
A quick vacuum around the vent areas will often do the trick or use a soft brush to dislodge any debris that has built up.
Staying on top of vent maintenance will prolong the life of your cooker and keep it functioning at its best.
Regular Maintenance Tips
To keep your AGA in top nick, it’s worth getting into a routine. Wipe down the enamel daily or after heavy use to prevent stains from setting in and deep cleans will be less frequent and less time consuming.
Also wipe the hotplates and lids weekly to prevent burnt food and grease from building up and they’ll be easier to clean.
A deeper clean should be done every few months. This means cleaning the inside of the ovens, hotplates, lids and any external bits.
By getting into a routine your AGA will look great and run well and be a reliable part of your kitchen for years to come.
Conclusion
Cleaning your AGA regularly doesn’t just keep it looking good – it works well and lasts longer. Follow this step-by-step guide and you’ll be able to clean the internal and external bits of your cooker.
From hotplates to enamel to vents, every step is important in keeping your AGA in top nick.
With the right bits and bobs and a bit of time, your AGA will be spotless for years to come.
