Maintaining an Indian kitchen can be a bit challenging, especially with the rich use of oils, spices, and various cooking methods. Grease formation is common, but with regular care and some smart strategies, you can keep your kitchen clean and grease-free. Below is a guide on how to maintain your Indian kitchen and avoid grease formation, including tips and visuals to help you along the way.

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### **How to Maintain an Indian Kitchen and Avoid Grease Formation**

**1. Daily Cleaning Routine**

Start by establishing a daily cleaning routine. After cooking, wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Pay special attention to areas prone to grease buildup, such as the stovetop, backsplash, and countertops.

*Visual Tip: Imagine a clean, sparkling stovetop with no grease stains and a shiny backsplash behind it. This is what you aim to achieve daily.*

**2. Use an Effective Exhaust Fan or Chimney**

An efficient exhaust system is essential in an Indian kitchen. A powerful chimney or exhaust fan helps in sucking up the grease, smoke, and steam, preventing it from settling on surfaces.

*Visual Tip: Picture a sleek chimney above the stove, efficiently pulling up all the steam and smoke as you cook a spicy curry.*

**3. Regularly Clean Kitchen Appliances**

Your kitchen appliances, especially the microwave, mixer, and grinder, are prone to grease buildup. Wipe them down regularly with a mix of warm water and vinegar. For the microwave, heat a bowl of water with lemon juice inside for a few minutes to loosen any grime, then wipe clean.

*Visual Tip: A clean, shiny microwave interior and sparkling kitchen gadgets can really make a difference.*

**4. Use Splash Guards and Covers**

When frying or cooking oily dishes, use splash guards or lids to prevent grease from splattering all over the kitchen. This simple step can drastically reduce the amount of cleaning required later.

*Visual Tip: Visualize a frying pan covered with a mesh splash guard, keeping the oil contained and the stove clean.*

**5. Clean the Grease Traps and Filters**

Your chimney or exhaust fan likely has filters or grease traps that collect the airborne grease. Make sure to clean these every few weeks. Soak them in hot, soapy water, scrub gently, and let them dry before reinstalling.

*Visual Tip: Think of spotless, clean filters back in place, ready to work efficiently again.*

**6. Opt for Less Oily Cooking Methods**

Reduce grease by opting for cooking methods that use less oil, such as grilling, baking, or steaming. When possible, use non-stick cookware, which requires less oil.

*Visual Tip: Imagine a beautifully grilled dish or a steamed idli with minimal oil used in preparation.*

**7. Deep Cleaning Schedule**

Apart from daily cleaning, plan a deep cleaning session once a month. This involves scrubbing tiles, cleaning the chimney or exhaust thoroughly, and washing the walls if needed. Use a degreaser for stubborn spots.

*Visual Tip: Picture yourself scrubbing the kitchen tiles with a mild cleaning solution, revealing their original shine.*

**8. Preventive Measures**

Lastly, take preventive measures like placing liners in cabinets and shelves to catch any stray oil or spices. This makes cleaning easier and protects the wood or laminate surfaces.

*Visual Tip: Imagine neatly lined cabinets that are easy to clean and keep your kitchen looking tidy.*

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By following these tips, you can maintain a clean, grease-free Indian kitchen. Regular cleaning and a bit of preventive care will go a long way in keeping your kitchen not only functional but also a pleasant place to cook.

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