Ammonia is a strong alkaline cleaner that effectively breaks down grease and oil. The fumes soften the grime, making it easy to wipe away. The enclosed environment of the zip-top bag traps the fumes, concentrating their cleaning power on the knobs.
Safety Tips and Precautions
While this method is incredibly effective, keep these safety tips in mind:
Use Ammonia in a Well-Ventilated Area: Ammonia fumes can irritate the respiratory system. Ensure you’re in a well-ventilated space when opening the bag or handling ammonia.
Wear Gloves: Ammonia can be harsh on the skin, so gloves are a good precaution.
Keep Away from Children and Pets: Store ammonia and the bagged knobs away from children and pets, as both the liquid and fumes can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.
Do Not Mix Ammonia with Other Cleaners: Especially avoid mixing ammonia with bleach, as this produces toxic fumes.
Additional Tips from Nana
Nana reminds me that ammonia can be applied to other greasy kitchen items as well. Removable stove grates, oven racks, and some pots and pans can benefit from a similar treatment—just check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions first to avoid any damage.
Thanks to my Nana’s trick, cleaning greasy range knobs is no longer a dreaded task. With minimal effort and a few household items, your stove can look sparkling clean again. So the next time you notice those knobs getting grimy, remember this easy, no-scrub method. Happy cleaning!
