Keeping your electric stove clean ensures it works efficiently and lasts longer. Whether you have a glass-top, ceramic, or coil stove, this guide covers everything you need—natural cleaners, step-by-step methods, and pro tips to remove burnt stains and grease.

1. What You’ll Need to Clean Your Electric Stove

Natural Cleaning Solutions

• Baking Soda

• Why it works: Acts as a gentle abrasive (pH 8.3) that lifts stains without scratching

• Pro Tip: For extra cleaning power, mix with 10 drops of essential oil (e.g., lemon or tea tree)

• White Vinegar

• Science behind it: The 5% acetic acid dissolves alkaline deposits and grease

• Safety Note: Never use on natural stone surfaces near your stove

• Lemon Juice

• Bonus benefit: Contains d-limonene which breaks down oil while leaving fresh scent

• Alternative: For tough stains, use citric acid powder (3x stronger than lemon juice)

Essential Tools

• Microfiber Cloth

• Choose wisely: 300+ GSM weight for best absorption (compare to 80 GSM standard cloths)

• Maintenance: Wash separately without fabric softener to maintain static charge

• Plastic Scraper

• Best practice: Look for ones with replaceable blades (e.g., Cerama Bryte)

• Angle matters: Maintain 30-45° angle to prevent edge digging

• Non-Abrasive Sponge

• Test first: If it can scratch a CD, it’s too harsh for glass tops

• Eco option: Coconut fiber sponges last 6x longer than cellulose

Choosing the right cleaner makes all the difference. While we recommend natural solutions for regular maintenance, here’s when chemical cleaners might be necessary:

Feature	Natural Cleaners 🍋	Chemical Cleaners ⚗️
Main Ingredients	Baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice	Sodium hydroxide, surfactants, solvents
Stain Removal	Moderate (works best on fresh stains)	Strong (handles baked-on grease)
Safety	Non-toxic, kid/pet friendly	Requires gloves/ventilation
Surface Safety	Safe for all stove types	May damage glass/coatings
Eco-Friendliness	Biodegradable (pH 6-8)	May contain phosphates (pH 10+)
Cost per Use	$0.10-$0.25	$0.50-$1.50
Best For	Daily maintenance	Quarterly deep cleaning
Application Time	15-30 minutes	5-10 minutes (but requires rinsing)
Scent	Mild (citrus/vinegar)	Strong chemical odor
DIY Potential	100% homemade	Pre-mixed formulas only

Key Takeaways:

1. For Routine Cleaning:

   • Natural solutions win for safety and cost

   • Best combo: Baking soda paste (scrub) + vinegar spray (rinse)

2. For Tough Jobs:

   • Chemical cleaners like Cerama Bryte or Weiman Cooktop Cleaner

   • Use max 2x/month to prevent surface damage

3. Pro Tip:

   “Mix 1 tbsp blue Dawn with natural cleaners for 40% better grease cutting (study by Good Housekeeping Institute)”

2. Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

 

✔️ Step 1: Cool Down the Stove

• Never clean a hot stove—wait until it’s completely cool to avoid cracks (especially for glass tops).

✔️ Step 2: Remove Loose Debris

• Wipe away crumbs and loose food with a dry cloth or soft brush.

✔️ Step 3: Apply Baking Soda Paste

• Mix 3 parts baking soda + 1 part water into a paste.

• Spread on tough stains and let sit for 15 minutes.

3. Deep Cleaning for Tough Stains

✔️ For Burnt-On Food

• Use a plastic scraper at a 45° angle to lift residue gently.

✔️ For Grease & Sticky Spots

• Spray vinegar-water solution (1:1) and wipe with a microfiber cloth.

✔️ For Cloudy Residue

• Rub with lemon juice, then buff with a dry cloth for shine.

4. Special Cases & Troubleshooting

✔️ Melted Plastic on Stove?

• Let it cool, then gently scrape off with a plastic tool.

✔️ Scratches on Glass Top?

• Avoid steel wool—use a ceramic cooktop polish for minor scratches.

✔️ Stubborn Burnt Stains?

• Make a thick paste of baking soda + hydrogen peroxide, leave for 30 mins, then scrub.

5. Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Stove Clean Longer

✔️ Wipe Spills Immediately

• Prevents stains from hardening.

✔️ Use the Right Cookware

• Flat-bottomed pans prevent scratches.

✔️ Weekly Light Cleaning

• A quick wipe with vinegar-water keeps grease buildup away.

Cleaning an electric stove doesn’t have to be hard! With baking soda, vinegar, and the right tools, you can keep your stovetop spotless. Regular maintenance prevents tough stains and extends your stove’s life.

🔗 Read Next: How to Choose the Right Stove for Your Home

1. What is the best way to clean an electric stove top?

The best way is to use a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge.

2. How do I remove burnt stains from an electric stove?

Use a paste of baking soda and water. Apply to the burnt area, let it sit for 15 minutes, and gently scrub with a damp cloth.

3. Can I use dish soap on my electric stove?

Yes, dish soap mixed with warm water is safe for daily cleaning — but avoid using too much water near electric elements.

4. Is it safe to use a razor blade on a glass stove top?

Only if it’s labeled safe for glass surfaces. Always use at a low angle and never on a hot surface.

5. How often should I clean my electric stove?

Wipe daily after use and deep clean once a week to prevent buildup and maintain performance.