Try cleaning guru’s ‘amazing’ hack for dust-free radiators that doesn’t cost anything

Summer seems like a lifetime ago as the autumn chill has definitely set in.

Scots could be treated to an early bout of winter for the second time this autumn, as parts of the country is set to be hit with snow and freezing temperatures this week.

And if you have responded by cranking up the heating, you may have noticed a rather unpleasant smell coming from your radiators.

Often, this means the heaters need a good dust. When burning fragrance wafts through your home, it could mean there’s old debris stuck behind the rads.

But thankfully, this isn’t a difficult problem to fix. A cleaning guru has shared a ‘quick and easy’ trick to get rid of dust without spending a single penny.

Hazel Mckinnie, one-half of the dynamic Wee Scotty Cleaners duo, has revealed a clever trick to tackle the dirt using something you’ve probably got lying around at home.

She uses her trusty hairdryer to blow away all the dust trapped in the radiator. The cleaning whizz said: “Here’s a wee top tip for you for the day. How many of you have bought a gadget for cleaning down the back of your radiators? I bet you a few of you have bought them because I did.”

The 44-year-old added: “But I discovered that who’s not got a hairdryer in their house? Every woman has a hairdryer do they not? Or men. All you do is put your hairdryer on and blow down the back and it blows all the dust and fluff out and you hoover it up at the bottom.

“So yeah, wee free tip. It saves you from buying gadgets, and it’s actually effective. Quick and easy hack that actually works and it knocks out all of the fluff.”

Many found the TikTok video useful, with one gushing: “Oooh I’m off to do mine right now. Cheers.” Meanwhile, another wrote: “Need to try this.” And a third added: “I’ve been doing this for years, amazing results.”

How to clean your radiator

1. Turn Off the Heating System: Ensure the heating system is turned off and the radiator is cool to the touch to avoid burns.

2. Vacuum the Radiator:

   • Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove loose dust and debris from the exterior and between the fins of the radiator.
   • Run the vacuum over the top, sides, and bottom, as well as between the columns or panels if you have column radiators.

3. Use a Radiator Brush:

   • Purchase a long, thin radiator brush which is specifically designed to reach between the columns or panels.
   • Insert the brush and move it up and down to dislodge trapped dust and debris.
   • If you don’t have one of these brushes, use the hairdryer hack to get the job done.

4. Wipe Down the Radiator:

   • Use a damp cloth with a mild detergent or soap to wipe down the exterior surfaces.
   • Avoid using too much water, as this could damage certain types of radiators.

5. Clean the Floor Underneath:

   • Dust and debris can collect under the radiator. Use a vacuum or a broom to clean the area beneath it.