How Often Should I Clean the Refractory Stone and How to Do It Safely?
Learn how to safely clean your Alfa oven's refractory stone. Avoid water, use the pyrolysis method, and keep your oven in top condition!
The refractory stone is a crucial component of your Alfa oven, as it absorbs heat and ensures even cooking. To maintain its optimal performance without causing damage, follow this proper cleaning routine.
📅 Cleaning Frequency
🧹 After Every Use:
✔ Remove food residues and ash with a brass brush or turning peel.
✔ Small burnt marks? No problem! They won’t affect cooking.
🔥 Deep Cleaning (Every 2-3 Months or As Needed):
✔ Perform a deeper clean if you notice residue buildup affecting cooking.
✔ If the stone is heavily soiled, you can use the natural pyrolysis method (see below).
📌 Important: Never wash the refractory stone with water or detergents! Since it's porous, it absorbs liquids, which may cause cracking due to thermal shock.
🛠 How to Clean the Refractory Stone Without Damaging It
1️⃣ Removing Residues
✅ After Use & When Cold:
✔ Wait until the stone is completely cool.
✔ Use a brass oven brush to remove crumbs and ash.
✔ For stuck-on residues, use a wooden or plastic scraper to gently lift them off.
✅ Natural Pyrolysis Method (Self-Cleaning with Heat):
🔥 Heat the oven to 400°C (750°F) for about 30 minutes.
🔥 This will burn off organic residues, turning them into ash.
🔥 Once cooled, simply brush away the ash.
2️⃣ How to Treat Stubborn Stains
✔ Use a non-abrasive scraper (wood or plastic) to remove tough spots.
✔ Avoid chemicals → Detergents and water can penetrate the stone's pores, affecting cooking quality.
⚠️ What to Avoid to Protect the Refractory Stone
🚫 Do NOT wash with water or soap → Moisture can cause cracks during heating.
🚫 Do NOT use metal sponges or harsh chemicals → They may alter the stone’s surface.
🚫 Do NOT pour oil or grease onto the stone → It may burn and release unwanted odors.
🚫 Avoid extreme temperature shocks → Never place frozen food on a hot stone, and never cool it with water.
📌 Replacing the Stone
✔ If the stone has deep cracks or breaks into multiple pieces, replace it.
✔ All Alfa ovens include a spare refractory stone in the package.
🔎 Conclusion
✅ Brush the stone after every use to prevent buildup.
✅ Use only brass brushes and wooden/plastic scrapers.
✅ Perform a deep clean every 2-3 months.
✅ Rely on pyrolysis to burn off residue—never use water or cleaners.
By following these simple steps, your Alfa oven’s refractory stone will stay in top condition, ensuring perfect cooking results and long-lasting durability! 🍕🔥