Bring Grimy Stovetop Grates Back To Life With The Help Of A Common Kitchen Staple

There's nothing that makes a kitchen look more worn down than a stovetop covered in blackened, greasy grates. Plus, all that buildup can be dangerous near an open flame. No matter how often you cook, those grates are magnets for oil splatters, food spills, and burnt-on residue that refuses to budge with ordinary scrubbing. Replacing them isn't exactly cheap, and harsh chemicals leave behind fumes you don't want anywhere near your food and could damage the finish. That's where a surprisingly simple staple like baking soda comes in. Its mild abrasiveness and natural cleaning power make it a go-to solution for cleaning all types of surfaces, including your stove grates. 

There are several clever ways to use baking soda to tackle the level of grime you're up against. Some stains respond best when baking soda is turned into a thick paste and scrubbed directly onto the surface. For heavier buildup, a soak in hot water mixed with baking soda can break down stubborn grease and soften it before you scrub. Each approach takes advantage of the same kitchen ingredient but adapts to the mess at hand.

Always wait for the grates to cool completely before you start scrubbing, no matter what type of cleaner you're using. Not only does this keep you from burning your hands, but it also prevents rapid temperature changes that could damage the metal. Once they're cool, it's the perfect time to try a few easy baking soda cleaning hacks. Remove the grates from the stove before you use any of these cleaning methods.

Start with a baking soda paste to gently scour gunk off of the grates. Combine one part water with three parts baking soda until you get a spreadable consistency. Coat the grates generously, and let the paste sit for at least 30 minutes. The longer it rests, the more time it has to loosen stubborn residue, which makes cleaning your stove grates much easier. Then, grab a sponge or gentle brush to scrub away the grime, and rinse with warm water.

If the buildup is heavier, try a baking soda soak. Fill your sink with warm water, and stir in about a cup of baking soda. Submerge the grates and leave them to soak for half an hour. This softens grease and caked-on food, making it much easier to scrub clean with a brush. Rinse well and dry before placing them back on the stove. Making sure the grates are completely dry can cut down on rust.