It is possible that cleaning the grate on your stove top is not a priority.Someday, you will have yourself a priority on your hands because of all the cooking debris and oil that can result in a hefty crust.This task is more manageable if you use one or a series of tried and true methods.
Step 1: The surface appears wet if you soak your grates with enough degreaser.
The grate should stay wet throughout the soaking process if you use enough degreaser.The wet look lets you know that the product can get in and go to work.
Step 2: The degreaser needs a lot of time to do its job.
You need to allow the degreaser to sit for 15 to 30 minutes depending on the level of gunk built up.As you wait, keep an eye on the grates because they are still wet.Let them sit for up to 30 minutes if they are starting to dry out.
Step 3: The proper scrubbing tool is needed to remove excess dirt.
While cast iron may seem sturdy enough to scrub with steel wool, you will want to use a non-abrasive sponge to clean the grate thoroughly.It will not leave your grate with a bunch of ugly scratches.
Step 4: Take the size of your grate.
You will need to determine what size bag is appropriate for your stovetop grate.You could decide to clean all the grates in one bag.Pick several gallon size bags for cleaning the grate.If you are going to clean the grate, make sure you find a large garbage bag that is well sealed.
Step 5: seal your bag with ammonia to keep fumes out.
The method does not use liquid ammonia.The fumes from the ammonia build-up loosen the gunk.If you let the grate sit overnight, it will take as little as 3 hours to clean.Use a 4 c (59 mL) of ammonia for sealed bags.If using a larger bag, use up to 2 c of ammonia.
Step 6: Under the warm running water, remove and rinse your grates.
ammonia is the most widely used method.Most of the stuff should wash off.You may need to use a sponge or fingers to clean up the gunk.
Step 7: The grate should be washed with warm water.
The initial wash will remove any surface layers that can easily be washed away, allowing the baking soda to work on the tougher material underneath.
Step 8: A thick paste can be made by combining baking soda with water.
It is possible to substitute the water for a deeper cleaning agent.The goal is for the paste to be thick enough to coat the grate.
Step 9: Let the paste stand for an hour.
As the caustic mixture sets in, it will erode any excess build-up.At every grade-school science fair, you will see what the baking soda can do.
Step 10: Remove the build-up with a non-abrasive sponge.
The method should work on the first go.You can repeat this process a second time if you find yourself with a lot of grease.
Step 11: The solution should be equal parts water and vinegar.
For easy application, pour the solution into a spray bottle.The grate will be broken up by the acid in the vinegar.If you feel like forgoing the degreaser or ammonia methods, you can use this solution.The best way to get rid of grease stains is through this cleaning method.
Step 12: Let the grate stand for at least 15 minutes after coating it.
Significant soak time is needed to penetrate the layers of grease as you are using a more natural clean agent.
Step 13: You can wash the grates with a sponge.
You should be able to get rid of the excess on the grate with a little extra scrubbing.You can repeat this process if you find that your grate still has something on it.You can use a toothbrush to clean hard to reach nooks and crevices.