How to Clean Stove Burners and Grates — Toronto Home Guide

Gas stove grates and burner caps accumulate baked-on grease with every cooking session. Regular cleaning prevents the build-up from becoming a major scrubbing project.

Weekly Clean (Light Build-Up)

1. Remove grates and burner caps once the stove is cool
2. Soak in a sink of hot water with dish soap for 15–20 minutes
3. Scrub with a non-scratch pad or stiff brush
4. Rinse and dry thoroughly — cast iron grates must be completely dry before returning to the stove to prevent rust
5. Wipe the stovetop surface beneath the grates while they soak

Heavy Grease — Baking Soda Paste

1. Make a thick paste of baking soda and a small amount of dish soap
2. Apply generously to grates and burner caps
3. Let sit for 20–30 minutes
4. Scrub with a stiff brush — the baking soda acts as a mild abrasive while the soap cuts grease
5. Rinse well and dry

Heavy Grease — Ammonia Bag Trick

For grates with years of baked-on grease that resist scrubbing:

1. Place each grate in a large zip-lock bag with 1/4 cup of household ammonia — the grate doesn't need to be submerged, just sealed with the ammonia fumes
2. Seal and leave outside or in a well-ventilated area overnight
3. The ammonia fumes break down grease without scrubbing — wipe clean the next day, rinse well
4. Wear gloves and work in ventilated space when handling ammonia

Burner Ports

If burner flames are uneven, the ports (the small holes around the burner cap) are clogged with food debris. Clear them with a straightened paperclip or toothpick — never use toothpaste, water, or sprays directly in the ports.

Tips

• Dry cast iron grates in a low oven (150°C) for 10 minutes after washing to prevent rust
• Wipe under grates after every cooking session while the spills are still fresh — prevents the weekly soak from becoming necessary