Enamel stove tops are classic kitchen appliances that are relatively low maintenance as the material is easy to clean, smooth, and can be wiped clean with a variety of kitchen degreasers. In this article, we'll show you how to clean your enamel stove top, and remove stains from the surface as well.
What You'll Need
- A commercial kitchen cleaner OR
- Baking soda and White vinegar
- Dish soap
- Microfiber cloth
- Paper towel
- Soft brush scrubber
- Spray bottle
- Plastic spatula or card - optional
How to Clean Enamel Stove Top: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Mix Your Preferred Cleaning Solution
Whether you're using a commercial cleaning solution formulated to remove the baked-on grease from your enamel stove top, or you're using a homemade solution of baking soda paste, it is important to read the instructions carefully before cleaning.
Some commercial cleaners, even those stored in spray bottles, may be concentrated, and need to be diluted to avoid damaging your black enamel stove top. Some solutions may not be suitable for cast iron stove grates as well, so be sure to check whether your cleaning solution is safe to use on enamel stoves.
Step 2: Dismantle Removable Parts
Remove the stove grates, burners, and other removable parts of the stove. You will need to clean these separately from the stove top in order to clean every corner of the enamel stove. Use warm water and dish soap to clean the stove grates and burner heads. Make sure the stove top is cool before touching them to prevent burns and heat damage.
Step 3: Apply the Solution, and Let it Sit
Apply the solution. If using a commercial solution, use the cleaner as directed on the instruction manual. If using a baking soda paste, place vinegar in a spray bottle, and liberally spritz all over the entire enamel stove top. Sprinkle baking soda over the vinegar, and let the solution bubble. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes for the solution to clean your stove top.
Step 4: Brush Away the Grime
After 15 minutes, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away the loosened grime and cleaning residue from the stove top. Focus on removing stubborn baked-on sauces, and add more cleaning mixture to remove any remaining stains. For an added gentle abrasive, add more baking soda or rock salt.
Avoid using steel wool or scouring pads during stove cleaning as these may scratch the surface of your stove top, particularly if you have a colored or black stove top. Use a soft brush, like a toothbrush or a cleaning brush, to scrub away the grime without damaging the enamel.
Step 5: Wipe Clean with Paper Towels
Use paper towels to wipe the enamel stove top clean. Remove as much of the cleaning solution and baking soda as possible, and toss out dirty paper towels. Wipe over the entire surface of the enamel stovetop to remove the grime.
Step 6: Degrease with Dish Soap
Lastly, degrease the stove top to get rid of any remaining oils by mixing hot water and dish soap to create a soapy water solution. Dip a microfiber cloth into the soapy water mixture, and wipe the damp cloth over the stove top to break down any oils. Your stove should look clean and shiny afterwards!
Optional Step: Scrape with Plastic Card
For particularly stubborn stains and baked-on stains that won't come out, you may need to use a plastic card and a little elbow grease. Use the plastic card or spatula to carefully scrape the stains away, making sure not to scratch the enamel.
Tips to Keep Your Enamel Stove Top Clean
Keeping your enamel stove clean is relatively simple. With regular wiping and cleaning, your enamel stove top should last for decades, giving your kitchen the classic, homey look! Here are a few tips you can do to keep your stove top pristine:
- Wipe down your stove top with a clean cloth regularly. This will prevent stains from building up, and will keep your stove top cleaner after every use
- Use a cream cleanser for tough stains. Most cream cleaners are made for a variety of surfaces, and they can keep the enamel surface clean by tackling the dirt and grime on them. These are handy to have around the home as they also work as oven cleaners, and as stain removers for pots and pans.
- If cleaning your gas stove, make sure to cut the fuel source off before cleaning to prevent accidental gas leaks.
- Clean the drip pans of your enamel stove if necessary. These drip pans can be removed, and cleaned with hot water and soap.
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