How to clean stove grates from old grease and dirt: 8 best methods

Cleaning the stove grates from grease and burnt food is an asterisked task. Dirt buildup can reduce the efficiency of the appliance and even cause a fire.

Experts say that simple and affordable products will come in handy. House Digest has published the most effective ways to clean the grates.

Method 1

The chemical composition of ammonia allows it to literally cut through the grease left on the remains.

Simply place each dirty stovetop grate in a separate plastic resealable bag. Pour ¼ to ½ cup of ammonia into the bags and seal them tightly. Leave the bags overnight and rinse them with warm water in the morning. It is important to note that this method works especially well with cast iron grates.

"Ammonia is a basic cleaner for burnt-on grease. It typically removes the relatively more acidic hydrogen atoms from grease and makes them 'negatively charged' and more soluble in water," said chemist Metin Karayilan of Case Western Reserve University.

Method 2

The surfactants in dishwashing detergent molecules quickly break down grease and separate it from the surface of the grates. First, remove them from the stove and soak them in warm water and soap for about 15-20 minutes. This should help get rid of any stubborn dirt.

Method 3

By combining water and baking soda, you can create a mixture that will help give your grates a nice shine. The life hack works because the alkaline base of baking soda helps break down fatty acids, effectively neutralizing them and making them easier to remove. In addition, baking soda can also act as a mild abrasive.

For this method, experts suggest using 1 part water and 3 parts baking soda. Then coat the grates with the paste and let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes. Scrub them thoroughly to get rid of any stubborn dirt that may still be on the surface.

Method 4

After removing the grates from the stove, wipe them with soap and water to remove burnt particles and dirt. Next, experts suggest putting them in the bottom rack of the dishwasher. After the cycle is complete, let the grates dry completely before putting them back on the stove. However, before trying this method, it is important to check your stove's instruction manual to determine if the grates are dishwasher safe.

Method 5

Degreasers contain surfactants or solvents that break down fatty acids. They differ from soap and all-purpose detergents in that they are specially formulated to deal with organic dirt, such as grease and oil, so their solution is more alkaline and abrasive.

Remove the grates and spray them with the degreasing solution. Wait about 15 minutes before wiping them off, rinsing them off, and letting them dry.

Method 6

Vinegar may not have the most pleasant smell, but that doesn't mean you should write it off. Acetic acid will help break down fatty acids, making it easier to wash them out. However, this liquid is best used for lightly soiled grates. Using an acid to break down another acid is not the most effective method. Instead, you need to use an alkali such as ammonia or baking soda.

Prepare a solution by combining hot water and vinegar in a 1:1 ratio, and then pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the solution on all the grates of the stove, wait about 30 minutes and rinse thoroughly with water.

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