How to Scrub Your Stovetop and Clean Your Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide

TL;DR:

Grease and grime can dull your stovetop and oven—and even become fire hazards. But with the right supplies and techniques, you can clean both appliances safely and effectively using simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, or an oven cleaner.

Why Regular Cleaning Matters

Your stovetop and oven are used daily and accumulate grease, food spills, and burned-on residue. This buildup can not only affect performance but may also pose a fire risk. Keeping them clean improves both safety and efficiency.

What You’ll Need

• Dish Soap: Cuts through grease easily.
• Baking Soda: Gently abrasive for stains.
• White Vinegar: Breaks down grease and removes odors.
• Degreaser: Optional for heavy-duty grime.
• Soft-Bristle Brush or Sponge: For safe scrubbing.
• Microfiber Cloths: For drying and polishing.
• Plastic Scraper: Lifts baked-on messes.
• Oven Cleaner: Use for deep cleaning.
• Rubber Gloves: Protects your skin.
• Warm Water Bucket: For rinsing as you go.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning Your Stovetop

For Gas Stovetops

• Remove Grates and Burners: Soak in warm, soapy water.
• Wipe Debris: Use a microfiber cloth to sweep away crumbs.
• Scrub Surface: Sprinkle baking soda and spray vinegar. Let fizz. Scrub with sponge or brush.
• Rinse and Dry: Wipe clean with damp cloth, then dry.
• Clean Soaked Parts: Scrub and rinse grates, then dry before reassembling.

For Glass-Top Stovetops

• Remove Loose Debris: Wipe crumbs with dry cloth.
• Apply Paste: Mix baking soda and water. Spread over stains.
• Scrape Gently: Use plastic scraper to remove burnt-on residue.
• Wipe Clean: Use damp cloth, then dry with microfiber towel.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning Your Oven

Step 1: Prep the Oven

• Remove oven racks and accessories.
• Vacuum or wipe away loose crumbs.

Step 2: Apply Cleaner

• Store-Bought Option: Follow label instructions and wait 15–20 minutes.
• DIY Paste: Mix baking soda + water, spread over walls, floor, and door (avoid heating elements).

Step 3: Let It Sit

• Commercial cleaner: Wait as directed.
• Baking soda: Let sit for 12 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Scrub and Rinse

• Use a sponge or brush to remove grime.
• If using baking soda, spray vinegar to activate fizzing action.
• Wipe with a damp cloth until all residue is gone.
• Dry with microfiber cloth.

Step 5: Clean the Racks

• Scrub soaked racks with a brush or sponge.
• Rinse well and dry completely before placing them back.

Step-by-Step: Polishing the Exterior

• Clean Controls and Door: Use soapy water to wipe knobs and the oven door.
• Shine Stainless Steel: Use a stainless steel cleaner or a dab of olive oil to polish the surface.

Q&A: Stovetop and Oven Cleaning

How often should I clean my stovetop and oven?

Wipe your stovetop weekly and deep clean your oven every 2–3 months or after spills.

Is it safe to use vinegar and baking soda inside my oven?

Yes! It’s a safe, natural alternative to chemical cleaners and works well on grime and grease.

Can I clean oven racks in the dishwasher?

If they fit and are labeled dishwasher-safe, yes—but soaking and scrubbing usually works better for heavy buildup.

What’s the easiest way to prevent future messes?

Use stovetop covers and oven liners, and always wipe spills as soon as the appliance cools.

Pro Tips for Maintenance

• Clean spills immediately to avoid baking them in.
• Use liners in ovens to catch grease and crumbs.
• Open windows when using strong cleaners for ventilation.
• Set calendar reminders to clean your oven quarterly.

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