The short answer
Safety First
Before you touch anything, make sure the fire is completely out and the power to cooking equipment is off. If the fire was large or you smell gas, leave the building and call emergency services. Open windows to ventilate the space, but do not use fans that might spread soot. Wear gloves, safety glasses, and a mask that filters smoke particles.
If you feel unwell, see a doctor. Do not attempt to clean if there is structural damage, exposed wiring, or if the fire involved chemicals. In those cases, a professional fire restoration service is the right call. Your insurance company can guide you on what steps to take next, but policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Turn off gas and electricity at the source if safe.
- Do not use water on grease fires.
- Check for hot spots or smoldering materials.
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of re-ignition.
- Contact your insurance company before discarding anything.
Assess the Damage
Walk through the kitchen and take note of every surface that has soot, smoke, or grease residue. This includes walls, ceilings, floors, countertops, equipment, vents, and even the inside of cabinets. Soot can penetrate into tiny cracks, so inspect behind appliances and under counters. Take photos for your insurance records.
The type of fire matters. A grease fire leaves a sticky, oily residue that needs special degreasers. A dry fire produces powdery soot that can be vacuumed with a HEPA vacuum. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right cleaning products. If you are unsure, ask a local water damage pro for an inspection, as they can identify hidden damage.
Clean the Surfaces
Start with dry cleaning: use a HEPA vacuum to remove loose soot from all surfaces, including walls and ceilings. Then, use a chemical sponge (dry cleaning sponge) to wipe off remaining soot. This prevents smearing. After that, wash all hard surfaces with a degreasing cleaner or a mixture of warm water and a commercial degreaser. Rinse with clean water and dry with towels.
For stainless steel, use a cleaner designed for that material to avoid scratching. For painted walls, be gentle to avoid removing paint. Clean all kitchen equipment, inside and out, including ovens, fryers, and grills. Remove and wash any removable parts. Pay special attention to ventilation hoods and filters, as grease buildup there is a fire hazard.
Handle Odors and Air Quality
Soot and smoke odors can linger long after the visible mess is gone. Wash all fabrics, such as curtains and aprons, or have them professionally cleaned. Wipe down walls and ceilings with a vinegar solution to neutralize odors. Place bowls of white vinegar or baking soda around the room to absorb smells. Run ozone generators or air purifiers if available.
The ventilation system is critical. If the fire affected the ductwork, you need a professional air duct cleaning to remove soot and grease from inside the ducts. This is not a DIY job. Local water damage pros can handle this, as they have the equipment to access and clean duct systems safely. This step also prevents future fire risks.
When to Call the Pros
If the fire was large, if soot has spread throughout the building, or if you cannot remove all residue yourself, call the pros. They have industrial-grade equipment, specialized cleaning agents, and experience with commercial kitchens. They can also restore equipment and surfaces that might otherwise be replaced.
Professional cleaning often involves deep cleaning of walls, ceilings, and floors, as well as contents cleaning of equipment and utensils. They can also handle structural drying if water was used to extinguish the fire. The local weather can bring damp conditions, so act quickly to prevent mold growth after any water use. For a full restoration, you may also need services like on-site contents cleaning and deep cleaning after disasters.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Redmond and nearby communities.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
Can I clean a commercial kitchen fire myself?
You can clean small, contained fires if you have the right supplies and time. However, large fires often require professional help to remove all soot and grease, especially from ventilation systems. The pros have the tools and expertise to do a thorough job, which is important for health and safety.
What cleaning products should I use?
Use a degreaser for grease fires and a HEPA vacuum for dry soot. Chemical sponges work well for walls. Avoid mixing chemicals, and always test a small area first. For commercial kitchens, use products that are safe for food-contact surfaces and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
How long does it take to clean a commercial kitchen after a fire?
The time depends on the size of the fire and the extent of the damage. A small fire might take a few days, while a large one could take weeks. The pros can give you a better idea after inspecting the space. Acting quickly can reduce the time and prevent further damage.