How to Clean Radiators, Including Behind Them

Dust collects between radiator fins and behind them, and gets blown around when the heating goes on. Autumn is the best time to clean them.

By the Ample Cleaners team · 5 October 2026 · 3 min read

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Method

  1. Switch the heating off and let the radiator cool
  2. Vacuum the top and the gaps between the fins with a narrow attachment
  3. Slide a damp microfibre cloth, wrapped around a ruler or a long, thin tool, down behind and between the fins
  4. Wipe the front and the pipework, and dry
  5. Put a towel on the floor to catch drips if you use a damp cloth

Tips

  • Do this once or twice a year
  • Do not place furniture directly against a radiator
  • Bleed radiators if they feel cold at the top, following the manufacturer's advice

Why autumn

Cleaning radiators before you switch the heating on stops the first burn-off of dust, which can create a stale smell around the home.

Common questions

Do dirty radiators heat less well?

Heavy dust can reduce airflow around them, so keeping them clean helps them work as designed.

Would you rather we did it for you?

Ample Cleaners offers deep cleaning across Barking, Dagenham, Romford, Ilford and surrounding areas, with DBS-checked cleaners and a fixed price.

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