Spotlight on Stoves: MOLLY MAID 10-Step Cleaning Guide's featured image

When it comes to cleaning the stove, it can certainly be a time-consuming task if you, like most people, haven’t been keeping up with all the little splashes and spills that can build up.  This 10-step guide will get your stove sparkling.

  1. What cleaning product should you use? Avoid using an abrasive cleaner on the stovetop – it may scratch the surface. Clean smooth-top ceramic and halogen stovetops with the product recommended by the manufacturer, or use hot soapy water and a clean microfibre cloth. The surface scratches easily so be careful if you’re wearing rings or bracelets.
  2. Wipe it down. Begin with the range hood and control panel. Clean the top, sides, front, range hood and fan cover with a damp microfibre cloth. Clean off fingerprints on knobs and dials (take extra care that you don’t turn on the element by accident while you are cleaning this area). Open the oven door and clean the inside edges of the door.
  3. Rinse your cloth
  4. For hard-to-remove spots, gently scrape away any excess build-up and apply a generous layer of bicarbonate of soda (baking soda). Moisten with water and rub with a damp cloth.
  5. Focus on knobs. If you have a gas stove, soak removable grates, knobs and handles in a sink full of hot, soapy water for five minutes. Flake off food with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Dry with a clean microfibre cloth.
  6. Clear the ports of a gas burner stove with a fine wire or a straight pin. Don’t use a toothpick because it can break off and block the port.
  7. Burner rings. If it’s electric, remove and soak burner rings and drip pans in a sink full of hot, soapy water. This will loosen dirt and make them easier to clean. On the stovetop, clean underneath and watch for rough edges.
  8. Heating elements. Remember, electric heating elements are self-cleaning and should never be submerged in water.
  9. Return to the sink to clean soaking pieces. Dry each piece and put it back. Don’t wrap drip pans in aluminum foil since this may cause electrical problems.
  10. Use glass cleaner to do a final polish.