Cleaning greasy range knobs is often one of the most dreaded kitchen chores. They’re small, awkward to handle, and seem to collect grime like a magnet.
However, my Nana, a master of household hacks, taught me a simple trick that makes cleaning these knobs practically effortless. This method requires minimal scrubbing and just a few household items. Here’s how it works:
Why Range Knobs Get So Greasy
Before diving into the solution, it’s helpful to understand why range knobs get so greasy in the first place. Range knobs are exposed to cooking splatters, grease, and steam every time you cook. Over time, this buildup becomes sticky and hard to remove, especially if it’s not cleaned regularly. Traditional cleaning methods often involve scrubbing with a sponge or brush, which can be tedious and ineffective. But, thanks to my Nana’s trick, there’s a much easier way!
The Trick: Nana’s Simple and Effective Method
What You’ll Need:
A large plastic zip-top bag (gallon size works best)
¼ cup of ammonia
A small bowl
A pair of gloves (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Remove the Range Knobs
First, remove the knobs from your stove. Most knobs can be easily pulled off with a bit of force. If they are stubborn, refer to your stove’s manual for guidance. Once the knobs are off, set them aside and prepare for the cleaning process.
Step 2: Prepare the Ammonia Solution
Put on your gloves to protect your hands from the strong fumes of ammonia. In a small bowl, pour about ¼ cup of ammonia. The exact amount might vary depending on how many knobs you have, but a little goes a long way. Ammonia is a powerful cleaning agent that breaks down grease and grime with ease.
Step 3: Bag It Up
Place the greasy range knobs in the large plastic zip-top bag. Carefully pour the ammonia into the bag, making sure it coats the knobs but does not spill. The idea is not to submerge the knobs in ammonia but to allow the fumes to do the heavy lifting. Once the ammonia is inside, seal the bag tightly, leaving a small amount of air inside.
Step 4: Let the Magic Happen
Now, here’s where the magic happens. Let the sealed bag sit for several hours, or ideally overnight. The fumes from the ammonia will loosen and dissolve the caked-on grease and grime on the knobs. This is where Nana’s trick shines – there’s no scrubbing involved! The fumes do all the hard work, softening the grease without any elbow grease from you.
Step 5: Wipe and Rinse
Next Page
