How to Clean Stove Top (Gas or Electric)
Make sure all burners are off and the surface is cool before cleaning.
What You'll Need
- 3 tbsp
- Several drops
- Spray bottle
- 1
- 1
- 2-3
Step-by-Step Method
For gas stoves, lift off the grates and burner caps. For electric, remove the coil elements if they unplug. Remove all knobs. Soak grates in hot soapy water in the sink.
Use a dry cloth to wipe away loose crumbs, food particles, and grease from the stovetop surface.
Mix 3 tablespoons baking soda with enough water to make a paste. Spread it over the entire stovetop surface, focusing on burnt-on spots. Let sit 15 minutes.
Scrub with a non-scratch sponge. For stubborn spots, spray vinegar over the baking soda paste (it will fizz) and scrub again. Use a toothbrush around burner openings.
Scrub the soaked grates with a sponge and dish soap. Rinse everything. Dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling. Wet burner caps can prevent ignition on gas stoves.
- Never use steel wool on glass-top or ceramic stoves (permanent scratches)
- Never spray water or cleaner directly into gas burner openings
- Do not use abrasive cleaners on stainless steel stovetop surfaces
- Never submerge electric coil elements in water
- Clean spills as soon as the stove cools. A 30-second wipe after cooking prevents a 30-minute scrub later.
- For glass-top stoves: a razor blade scraper held at a 45-degree angle removes burnt-on food without scratching. Only use on glass, never on coated surfaces.
- Line drip pans with aluminum foil for easy cleanup (electric stoves only).
Frequently Asked Questions
Apply baking soda paste and let sit 30 minutes. Then use a razor blade scraper held at a 45-degree angle to gently lift the burnt residue. Follow with a glass cleaner for streak-free finish. Never use abrasive pads on glass-top stoves.
Deep clean weekly if you cook daily. Wipe the surface after every use to prevent buildup. Clean grates and drip pans monthly.
Sources & Methodology
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a mild abrasive that dissolves grease without scratching most stovetop surfaces. Vinegar reaction provides additional cleaning action on carbonized food residue.
Last reviewed: March 20, 2026