Introduction
A clean stovetop is not only essential for maintaining kitchen hygiene, but it can also improve the cooking experience. Afterall, no one wants to cook on a dirty stove.
In this article, we will explore the best ways to clean your stovetop, including expert tips, homemade cleaning solutions, and product reviews. Follow our guide to leave your stovetop looking as good as new.
10 Easy Steps to a Clean Stovetop
Learning how to clean a stovetop may seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s a breeze. Here are ten easy steps to get your stovetop sparkling clean:
- Remove any loose debris and food particles from the stovetop using a soft brush or cloth.
- Fill a sink or large bowl with hot soapy water.
- Remove burner grates and knobs and soak them in the hot soapy water for at least an hour.
- Remove any burnt-on food or stains from the stovetop surface using a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge.
- Rinse the stovetop surface with warm water and wipe it dry using a clean towel or cloth.
- Clean any remaining spots or stains with a Glass or Ceramic Cooktop Cleaner.
- Remove the burner grates and knobs and scrub them clean using a sponge or brush.
- Rinse the grates and knobs with warm water and dry them with a clean towel or cloth.
- Replace the clean grates and knobs on the stovetop.
- Bask in the glory of your clean stovetop!
Always make sure that you read the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning your stovetop, especially if it has a special coating or finish.
Stubborn stains on your stovetop may require additional attention. Here are some handy tips for effectively removing them:
- For grease stains, use vinegar or baking soda as they break down the oils and make it easier to wipe away.
- For caked-on food spills or tough stains, using a scraper can be an effective option. Be sure to use a plastic scraper that won’t scratch the surface of your stovetop.
- If you have a gas stovetop, make sure the burners are properly seated before turning them on to avoid gas leaks.
6 Homemade Cleaning Solutions for a Sparkling Stovetop
Homemade cleaning solutions are an excellent option for those who want to avoid using harsh chemicals. They are inexpensive, easy to make, and can be very effective. Here are six simple DIY cleaning solutions that will leave your stovetop looking great:
- Vinegar and Baking Soda Cleaner: Mix equal parts of vinegar and baking soda to form a paste. Apply the paste to stubborn stains or grease marks and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth.
- Lemon and Salt Cleaner: Dip a lemon in salt and use it to scrub away any tough stains or grime marks on the stovetop surface. Rinse with clean water and dry with a clean cloth.
- Dish Soap and Vinegar Solution: Mix two cups of hot water, one teaspoon of dish soap, and one tablespoon of white vinegar. Dip a sponge in the solution and use it to clean the stovetop surface. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel or cloth.
- Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner: Mix two tablespoons of baking soda and one tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide in a small bowl to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stubborn stains and let it sit for 15 minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth.
- Cornstarch Cleaner: Mix two tablespoons of cornstarch with one tablespoon of vinegar and apply it to your stovetop. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before wiping it off with a clean cloth or sponge.
- Club Soda Cleaner: Pour a small amount of club soda onto a cloth or sponge and use it to clean the stovetop surface. The carbonation in the club soda will help to lift stubborn stains and make them easier to remove.
The Fastest Way to Clean Your Stovetop: Tips from the Pros
If you’re short on time or don’t want to spend hours cleaning your stovetop, these tips from the pros will help you get the job done quickly and efficiently:
- Use a razor blade scraper to remove dry food particles or burnt-on stains. Be gentle and use a shallow angle to avoid scratching the stovetop surface.
- Use a microfiber cloth to clean the stovetop surface. These cloths are highly absorbent and won’t leave any streaks or lint on the surface.
- Invest in a quality glass or ceramic cleaner. These cleaners are specially designed to remove tough stains and are safe to use on most stovetop surfaces.
- Use a toothbrush to clean around the burners and knobs. These hard-to-reach areas can collect dirt and grime over time.
Maintaining a clean stovetop is much easier than having to clean built-up grease or baked-on food, so try to wipe it down regularly.
Top 5 Stovetop Cleaning Products Reviewed and Compared
There are several stovetop cleaning products on the market, each with their own pros and cons. We’ve reviewed the top five products to help you find the perfect one for your needs:
- Weiman Glass Cooktop Cleaner and Polish: This cleaner comes with a scrubbing pad and is specially formulated to remove tough stains. It’s easy to use and can effectively clean most stovetop surfaces.
- Cerama Bryte Cooktop Cleaner: This cleaner is designed for use on ceramic surfaces and can remove even the toughest baked-on stains. It’s also non-abrasive and won’t damage the surface of your stove.
- Bar Keepers Friend Cooktop Cleaner: This versatile cleaner can be used to clean a variety of kitchen surfaces, including stovetops. It’s effective at removing stubborn stains and is affordable too.
- Easy-Off Cooktop Cleaner: This cleaner is great for those who want a no-fuss solution to cleaning their stovetop. It’s easy to use and can quickly remove tough stains and spills.
- Carbona Oven Cleaner: While marketed as a product for cleaning ovens, this cleaner can also be used to effectively clean stovetops. It’s great at removing grime and burned-on food quickly and easily.
Be sure to read the labels of any cleaning product before using it on your stovetop. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging your appliance.
How to Clean Your Stovetop Naturally: Eco-Friendly Tips and Tricks
Paying attention to the environment is more critical than ever, and cleaning products are included in that. There are eco-friendly alternatives for stove cleaning that you can find within your own home. Here are our top tips:
- White Vinegar: White vinegar can be used alone or as part of a cleaning mixture. In a spray bottle, mix half a cup of white vinegar with water. Spray the solution on the stovetop and wipe it clean. You can adjust the amounts of vinegar and water in your recipe until you find a combination that works for you.
- Baking Soda: You can mix it with vinegar for a potent cleaning mixture, or use it on its own. For spots that are either hard to reach or the stain is particularly severe, sprinkle baking soda onto the stove top and then add water. Let it sit for several minutes before scrubbing with a soft cloth or sponge.
The Dos and Don’ts of Stovetop Cleaning: A Comprehensive Guide
While the previous sections covered all the basics of cleaning stovetops, there are a few “dos and don’ts” that one should keep in mind:
- Do wipe the stovetop down regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.
- Don’t use abrasive cleaners or scrubbers as they can scratch the surface of the stovetop.
- Do use a soft sponge or cloth to avoid damaging the stovetop.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals that may damage the stovetop surface or cause harm to you.
- Do clean your stovetop after every use, especially after cooking greasy or sticky foods.
- Don’t leave sugary spills on the stovetop surface, as they can bake onto the surface and cause damage.
Conclusion
Keeping your stovetop clean is essential not only for hygiene but also for ensuring that it continues to function properly. Remember to clean it regularly, choose the right cleaning products, and avoid any harmful practices.