While the baking soda and vinegar are doing their magic, fill your sink with hot water. After the fizzing has subsided, carefully place the burners into the hot water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. If your burners are exceptionally greasy, you may want to let them soak longer, up to an hour.
Step 5: Wipe Away the Grime
After soaking, use a sponge or soft cloth to wipe away the grease. For any stubborn spots, use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the remaining grease off. You’ll notice that the grease comes off much easier after the baking soda and vinegar have broken it down.
Step 6: Rinse and Dry
Rinse the burners thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining baking soda and vinegar residue. Dry them completely with a clean towel before placing them back onto your stovetop.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Clean Burners
Clean Regularly: The best way to keep stovetop burners clean is to address spills and splatters as soon as they happen. Wiping them down regularly will prevent the buildup of grease and grime.
Use Drip Pans: If you have a gas stove, consider using drip pans. They can catch spills and make cleaning much easier.
Avoid Harsh Scrubbers: Always use non-abrasive sponges or cloths on your stovetop burners to avoid scratching. If you need a little extra scrubbing power, a gentle toothbrush should suffice.
Line Burners with Foil: Another trick my nana taught me is to line the bottom of the burners with aluminum foil. This catches grease and spills and can be easily removed and replaced, saving you time and effort.
Routine Deep Cleaning: Even with regular maintenance, it’s a good idea to give your burners a deep clean with the baking soda and vinegar method every few months. This will ensure they remain in top condition and function effectively.
Why This Method Works So Well
This method is fantastic because it requires minimal effort on your part. The baking soda and vinegar do the heavy lifting by chemically breaking down the grease, while the hot water soak softens any remaining debris. Plus, both baking soda and vinegar are non-toxic and safe for use in the kitchen, making this method an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
By using this simple trick, you can keep your stovetop burners clean and shiny with virtually no effort, just like my nana did. Give it a try the next time you notice some grease buildup, and enjoy the ease of a clean stovetop without the hassle!
