The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Stove with Vinegar

Greasy stoves are inevitable if you cook, but effective cleaning doesn’t require harsh chemicals. Distilled white vinegar, paired with simple techniques, can dissolve grease and grime on gas, electric coil, and induction stovetops. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for a sparkling clean cooktop without the need for expensive cleaners.

Cleaning a Gas Stove with Vinegar

Gas stovetops accumulate grease quickly. The process begins with safety: turn off all burners and ensure they are cool before disassembly. Soaking removable parts accelerates cleaning.

1. Soak components: Fill a sink or container with hot water, 1 cup of vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of dish soap. Submerge burner grates, gas outlet covers, and knobs.
2. Apply vinegar solution: Mix 1 cup hot water, 1 cup vinegar, and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray the stovetop and let sit for 10 minutes.
3. Wipe and scrub: Use a damp sponge or microfiber cloth to wipe away grime. Scrub grates with a soft brush if needed.
4. Rinse and reassemble: Rinse all parts thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth before reassembling.

Cleaning an Electric Coil Stove with Vinegar

Electric coil stoves require careful handling. Burning off grease with heat first can simplify cleaning.

1. Burn off grease: Turn coils on high for 3 minutes to burn off residue, then allow to cool completely (20 minutes).
2. Clean coils: Unplug and wipe coils with a sponge dipped in hot water, vinegar, and dish soap. Rinse with clean water.
3. Soak drip pans: Remove drip pans and soak in vinegar solution for at least 15 minutes before scrubbing.
4. Clean under the stove: If accessible, spray the underside with the cleaning solution and wipe clean.
5. Spray and wipe: Spray the stovetop with vinegar solution, let sit for 10-15 minutes, and wipe clean.

Cleaning an Induction Stovetop with Vinegar

Induction stovetops are easy to clean with vinegar. Ensure the surface is cool before starting.

1. Mix cleaning solution: Combine 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup hot water, and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle.
2. Spray and wipe: Spray the stovetop, let sit for 5-10 minutes, and wipe with a damp microfiber cloth.
3. Buff: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface for a streak-free finish.

Dealing with Stubborn Grease

For extra-tough grease, combine vinegar with baking soda.

1. Spray with vinegar solution.
2. Sprinkle with baking soda.
3. Cover with a damp microfiber towel for 15 minutes.
4. Scrub with a sponge.

Alternative Household Cleaners

Beyond vinegar, other household products can tackle grease:

• Lemon Juice: Mix 1 cup lemon juice with 1 cup hot water and spray the stovetop.
• Dish Soap: Use a degreasing dish soap diluted in hot water.
• Rubbing Alcohol: Mix equal parts hot water and isopropyl alcohol to dissolve grease.

Maintaining a clean stove is essential for kitchen hygiene and safety. Regular cleaning with vinegar and these simple methods prevents grease buildup, odors, and potential fire hazards.