How to Clean Stove Grates and Get Rid of Cooked-On Grease
Cleaning stove grates can be quick and easy, depending on the product you use.
You can clean stovetop grates with a simple solution of soap and water. For more challenging jobs, use a degreaser or baking soda and vinegar.
Here’s how to clean stove grates without scrubbing or damaging them.
How to Avoid Damaging Your Stove Grates While Cleaning Them
Most gas stove grates are cast iron or enameled cast iron. Enameled cast iron is coated in porcelain, looks shiny, and feels smooth. Regular cast iron has a matte look. Take extra precautions when cleaning bare cast iron so it doesn’t get scratched.
Only use non-scratch pads and sponges to clean. No matter the solution, rinse your grates well and dry with a towel. If you leave cast iron wet, it can rust.
If your cast iron stove grates don’t have an enamel coating, you’ll need to reseason them after cleaning. To do this, rub the grates with a thin layer of vegetable oil, place them on a baking sheet, and bake them in the oven for 1 hour at 450 degrees.
What’s the Easiest Way to Clean Stove Grates?
The easiest method to clean stove grates is with hot water and dish soap. Here’s what to do:
- Place your stove grates in the sink
- Pour boiling water over them and allow the water to drain
- Use a sponge or soft-bristled brush to scrub the grates with dish soap and water
- Rinse
- Dry with a towel and return to the stove
If your stove grates don’t have much build-up, dish soap is the simplest and safest cleaning method. But, if your stove grates have crusted on food or oil, you can use one of the methods below.
How to Clean Stove Grates without Scrubbing: Use Fume-Free Easy Off
If it’s been a while since you’ve cleaned stove grates and they’ve developed a lot of burnt-on gunk and oil, Fume Free Easy Off is one of the best, no-scrub methods for cleaning them.
Even though Fume Free Easy Off is less harsh than the original version, you’ll still want to wear gloves before working with it.
Make sure your stove grates are completely cooled, and then follow these steps:
- Coat the stove grates with Fume-Free Easy Off
- Allow the solution to sit for at least 30 minutes
- Wipe the solution off with a paper towel or non-scratch pad
- Rinse well
- Dry with a towel
Easy off will power through the burnt-on grease without the need for scrubbing.
How to Deep Clean Stove Grates with Vinegar and Baking Soda
If dish soap didn’t get your stove grates clean and you’re looking for a more powerful natural cleaning option, vinegar and baking soda will do the trick.
Before cleaning your stove grates, make sure they’re completely cooled. Then fill a sink or baking pan with a solution of half vinegar and half water. There should be enough solution to cover the grates.
Allow the grates to soak in the vinegar and water for 30 minutes.
Next, fill a bowl with ½ cup of baking soda and add a couple of drops of dish soap until a paste forms. Use a non-scratch sponge or pad to scrub the cooked-on gunk off the grates.
Rinse well with water and dry with a towel.
How to Degrease Your Gas Stove Grates (Do Weekly or as Needed)
If you’ve got your stove grates clean, you can keep them that way by degreasing them every week or as needed. Adding this task to your weekly cleaning list will make the process easier and cut down on deep cleaning.
To clean your grates, you’ll need a product like Dawn Heavy Duty Degreaser. You can spray it directly on your stove grates, let it sit for five minutes, wipe, rinse, and dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ
Can you clean your stove grates in the dishwasher?
Some manufacturers recommend cleaning enamel-coated stove grates in the dishwasher. Look for cleaning instructions from your stove manufacturer for specifics. If your stove grates are uncoated cast iron, stick to hand washing.
How to tell if stove grates have an enamel coating?
Enamel-coated stove grates have a slight sheen and feel smooth. Uncoated cast iron looks matte and feels a bit rough. If you can’t figure out whether yours are enamel, look up the make and model of your stove.
Do enamel stove grates need seasoned?
You don’t have to season enameled stove grates. They have a special coating that prevents them from rusting.
Can you clean stove grates in a self-cleaning oven?
Some manufacturers warn against cleaning stove grates in a self-cleaning oven. Look up the make and model of the stove for specific instructions.
Final Thoughts
Stove grates come into contact with everyday food messes, many of which get baked on. For regular, light cleanings, wipe down your stove grates with soapy water and dry them with a towel. If your grates are extra dirty, use Fume Free Easy Off or a combination of baking soda and vinegar.
Always dry your grates before returning them to the stove. And if you’re cleaning uncoated cast iron, reason your grates after cleaning.