Electric stove burners can quickly accumulate grease and food spills, making them look messy and worn out. However, restoring them to their former shine doesn’t require much effort. With a few straightforward steps, you can have your burners sparkling clean in no time. Here’s a simple hack to help you make your stove burners look as good as new with minimal hassle.
Safety First: Turning Off and Unplugging Your Stove
Before starting any cleaning process, the first rule is always safety. Make sure your stove is switched off and, if possible, unplugged from the power source. Allow the burners to cool completely. Cleaning them while they are still hot can lead to burns or even cause damage to the burners. Once the burners are cool, remove the electric burner coils if they are detachable.
After removing the coils, the next step is to soak them. Fill a basin with warm, soapy water, and let the burners soak for around 30 minutes or, if needed, up to a few hours. Soaking helps loosen up any stubborn food particles, grease, or stains that have accumulated over time.
While the burners are soaking, it’s a great opportunity to clean the rest of the stovetop. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the surrounding surface, removing any spills, stains, or grease that might have splattered. An all-purpose cleaner works best for this task, leaving your stovetop looking fresh.
Didn’t Sleep Last Night? Here Are the Morning Mistakes Making You Feel Worse
The Best Way to Clean Your Burners and Stovetop
Once the burners have soaked and the grime has softened, it’s time to scrub. Like The Sophisticated Caveman did in his TikTok video, use a sponge or cloth to gently clean the burners. If stubborn stains remain, make a paste with baking soda and water, and apply it to the problem areas. Let the paste sit for a few minutes before scrubbing again. The abrasiveness of baking soda is great for lifting grease and food residue without harming the burners. For harder-to-reach spots, a soft-bristled brush works best, but be careful not to damage the electrical parts.
As you scrub, wipe away any leftover residue with a clean, dry cloth. While the burners dry, clean the stovetop surface. Over time, spills, grease, and water spots can accumulate, so use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to wipe the surface. For tough stains, a mix of equal parts vinegar and water can do the trick; then wipe it away with a damp cloth.
Reassemble and Let Everything Dry Completely
Once your burners and stovetop are cleaned, ensure that everything is completely dry before reassembling the stove. Moisture can damage electrical components, so take the time to let the burners dry fully.
Afterward, carefully reattach the burners to their designated spots on the stove. If any residue remains or the burners are still damp, repeat the cleaning process for a spotless finish. Once you’re satisfied with the cleanliness, plug the stove back in and turn it on to ensure everything works correctly.
