The wood stove has been one of the best-selling products during the winter season.
However, with the arrival of summer, it’s also time to turn it off and prepare it properly for the next cold season. To ensure that the appliance is in good condition for next winter, it is important to perform proper cleaning and maintenance at the end of the season. In this article, we show you how to effectively prepare and clean a wood stove, along with some useful tips to keep it in good condition during the summer.
How to clean a wood stove.
A wood stove isn’t just cleaned, it’s cared for. Because what you have in front of you is not just another object in the house, nor a decorative corner: it is a piece that has experienced fire, that has given real warmth, and is made to last… if you know how to treat it. The temptation to use any cleaning product to make it look “like new” is strong. But if you do this, you might end up damaging it. The heat-resistant paint doesn’t tolerate experiments. It doesn’t like “multi-purpose” cleaners, wet rags, or rushing. So, let us explain how to do it the right way. No magic formulas, no myths, no damage. Just the essentials. Like someone who knows what they have in their hands.
What to clean the exterior of a wood stove with.
The most important thing you should know is this: wood stoves, like those from Panadero, are coated with heat-resistant paint. This type of paint is designed to withstand high temperatures, not aggressive cleaning products. That’s why the best way to clean it is also the simplest: a dry cloth. Nothing more. No multi-purpose products, no lemon-scented sprays, or products you would use on your kitchen counter. Does it have dust? Gently remove it. Any superficial stains? Same: without scrubbing it like a frying pan. Think of your stove as a delicate object, even though it’s made of steel. Do you have a more complicated stain? Follow these three steps:
Remove the dust from the affected area.
Lightly sand the area with care, without overdoing it.
Apply a heat-resistant spray paint specifically for this type of surface. You can see how to do it here: https://vimeo.com/747203551
And covering it with a cover? Better not.
It might seem like a good idea: to protect it from dust with a cover during the warmer months. But it’s not recommended. Covering it with plastic or fabric can create moisture and damage the surface. The best option is to leave it out in the open, clean, and with nothing on top. If you want to protect it properly, do it with maintenance, not covers.
How to clean a wood stove with an oven.
If your wood stove has an oven — like some Panadero models — extra care is needed. No products should be applied, either inside or outside. The ideal solution is to let the oven cool down a little (warm, not hot), and wipe it with a dry cloth to remove crumbs or superficial grease. If there is a persistent stain, it’s better to leave it than to damage the finish or materials.
Cleaning an old or inherited wood stove.
If you have a stove that’s many years old, or even inherited, it’s best not to experiment. No abrasive products or attempts at DIY restoration. The ideal solution is to check if it can be repainted with original heat-resistant paint, like the one we offer at Panadero. It’s specifically designed for this purpose: to restore its good appearance without compromising performance or safety.
How to clean the tubes of a wood stove.
Here, it’s time to roll up your sleeves. The tubes accumulate soot, and it’s important to clean them at least once a year. You can do it yourself with a suitable chimney brush, or call a professional if you prefer to avoid complications. The important thing is to keep the tubes clean to ensure good airflow and avoid smoke or residue. A clean system heats better, consumes less, and is safer.
Taking care of the stove is taking care of your investment.
Cleaning the stove properly, keeping its components in good condition, not covering it or damaging it with unsuitable products… all of this directly impacts its durability. A well-maintained stove will accompany you for years, continue to heat like the first day, and remain efficient. Additionally, all this care is part of the maintenance that helps you save on heating: the better the stove performs, the less you’ll need other heat sources.
The wood stove in the spring.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask! We hope this article has been helpful to you. Check out our blog and find solutions and tips to get the most out of your fireplace or wood stove. Visit our online store to discover Panadero wood stoves. If you have any questions or need help choosing the right model, we’ll be happy to assist you.
