🕓 Last updated: July 28, 2025
Why You Need to Clean a Greasy Stove Regularly
Letting grease and grime build up on your stove can lead to a variety of issues:
- Health risks: Grease traps bacteria, mold, and odors.
- Fire hazard: Built-up grease is highly flammable.
- Poor performance: Clogged burners and grime affect heating efficiency.
- Bad appearance: A greasy stove simply looks unhygienic and unpleasant.
Regular maintenance helps keep your cooking area safe, healthy, and looking great.
What You’ll Need to Clean a Greasy Stove
Before you begin, gather these basic supplies:
- Dish soap (preferably degreasing formula)
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Spray bottle
- Old toothbrush or small cleaning brush
- Microfiber cloths or soft sponges
- Warm water
- Optional: Commercial stove degreaser, lemon juice, scraper
How to Clean a Greasy Stove: Step-by-Step Process
Cleaning a greasy stove doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to remove grease and restore shine with minimal effort.
Step 1: Turn Off and Cool Down the Stove
Always make sure your stove is completely off and cool before you start cleaning. If you have an electric or gas stove, ensure it’s disconnected for safety.
Step 2: Remove the Grates and Burner Parts
Remove burner grates, caps, and any removable components. Place them in hot, soapy water and let them soak for 20–30 minutes. This will loosen hardened grease, making it easier to clean later.
Bonus Tip: Add a few tablespoons of vinegar to the soak for extra grease-cutting power.
Step 3: Wipe Off Loose Debris
Using a dry paper towel or cloth, wipe off loose crumbs, food particles, or dried spills. This helps prevent smearing the mess around when you apply cleaner later.
Step 4: Spray a Degreasing Solution
Now, the real work begins. There are two main options:
- Natural Cleaner to Clean a Greasy Stove
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Generously spray over the greasy areas. For tougher spots, sprinkle baking soda directly on the grease before spraying the vinegar solution. - Commercial Degreaser
You can use a heavy-duty kitchen degreaser if you’re dealing with thick, sticky buildup. Follow the instructions carefully and wear gloves if necessary.
Allow the cleaner to sit for 5–10 minutes to break down the grease.
Step 5: Scrub and Clean the Greasy Stove Surface
Using a soft sponge, microfiber cloth, or an old toothbrush, scrub the affected areas in small circles. Focus on:
- Areas around the burners
- Back panel
- Edges and corners
- Under the stove knobs
Avoid harsh scouring pads, as they may scratch the stove surface.
Step 6: Rinse and Wipe Clean
After scrubbing, use a clean damp cloth to remove the loosened grease and cleaner residue. Repeat the rinse if needed. Then dry the surface thoroughly with a dry microfiber cloth.
You’ll be amazed at how fresh your stove looks!
Step 7: Clean Grates and Burner Covers
Scrub the grates and burner caps that have been soaking. Use a small brush or steel wool for difficult areas. Rinse thoroughly, then dry completely before reassembling.
Step 8: Polish and Finish
If your stove has stainless steel parts, finish by applying a stainless steel cleaner or a few drops of olive oil on a cloth to polish the surface. This gives your stove a shiny, like-new finish.
How Often Should You Clean a Greasy Stove?
The frequency depends on your cooking habits:
- After every use: Quick wipe-down with a cloth
- Weekly: Light degreasing and surface cleaning
- Monthly: Full deep clean with grates and burner parts
- Every few months: Clean under and behind the stove
Maintaining a regular schedule makes it easier to avoid heavy buildup.
Natural Ways to Clean a Greasy Stove
If you prefer eco-friendly and chemical-free options, try these combos:
- Lemon and Baking Soda
Cut a lemon in half, dip it in baking soda, and scrub the greasy area. The acidity and abrasiveness break down grease naturally. - Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply to greasy spots, let sit for 15 minutes, and scrub away. - Vinegar Spray
White vinegar cuts through light grease and adds a clean shine. Great for daily maintenance!
Common Mistakes When Trying to Clean a Greasy Stove
- Using steel wool or abrasive scrubs (can scratch surfaces)
- Spraying water into burners or electrical components
- Leaving soaked grates wet (can cause rust)
- Using harsh chemicals on enamel or glass-top stoves
Be gentle and thorough. Patience pays off when removing grease.
