What To Know
- Rinse the burners with clean water and dry them completely with a soft cloth.
- Apply the cleaner to the burners and let it sit for the recommended time.
- Apply a damp cloth soaked in white vinegar to the burnt-on sugar and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Flat top electric stove burners are a convenient and efficient cooking surface, but they can also be challenging to clean. Grease, spills, and food residue can quickly accumulate, leaving your burners looking unsightly and potentially unsanitary. However, with the right techniques and a little elbow grease, you can restore your flat top electric stove burners to their pristine condition.
Materials You’ll Need
- Soft cloths or sponges
- Dish soap
- Glass cleaner
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Non-abrasive scrubber
- Toothbrush
Cleaning Methods
1. Regular Cleaning for Daily Use
- After each use, wipe down the burners with a damp cloth to remove any loose crumbs or spills.
- Use a mild dish soap solution to clean the burners thoroughly. Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners.
- Rinse the burners with clean water and dry them completely with a soft cloth.
2. Deep Cleaning for Heavy Buildup
Baking Soda Paste:
- Create a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water.
- Apply the paste to the burners and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Use a non-abrasive scrubber or toothbrush to gently scrub away the grease and grime.
- Rinse the burners thoroughly with clean water and dry them.
Vinegar Solution:
- Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution onto the burners and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Wipe away the solution with a soft cloth.
- Rinse the burners with clean water and dry them.
3. Removing Baked-On Grease
Commercial Cooktop Cleaner:
- Follow the instructions on the cleaner label.
- Apply the cleaner to the burners and let it sit for the recommended time.
- Wipe away the cleaner with a soft cloth.
- Rinse the burners thoroughly with clean water and dry them.
DIY Cooktop Cleaner:
- Mix 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of vinegar.
- Apply the solution to the burners and let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Use a non-abrasive scrubber to gently scrub away the grease.
- Rinse the burners thoroughly with clean water and dry them.
Tips for Preventing Buildup
- Keep your burners clean after each use.
- Use a splatter guard to prevent grease from splattering onto the burners.
- Avoid using pots and pans that are too large or small for the burners.
- Clean up spills immediately to prevent them from baking on.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Burners Not Heating Evenly
- Check if the burners are properly seated on the stovetop.
- Clean the burners thoroughly to remove any grease or debris that may be blocking the heating element.
- If the problem persists, contact a qualified appliance technician.
2. Burners Not Turning On
- Check if the stove is plugged in and the power is on.
- Reset the circuit breaker or fuse if it has tripped.
- If the burners still do not turn on, contact a qualified appliance technician.
Beyond Cleaning: Maintaining Your Stovetop
- Regularly clean the stovetop surface to prevent grease and spills from accumulating.
- Use a glass cleaner to remove fingerprints and smudges.
- Periodically check the electrical connections to ensure they are secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I clean my flat top electric stove burners?
A: Regular cleaning after each use is recommended. Deep cleaning should be done every 2-3 weeks or as needed.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my stove burners?
A: No, bleach is not recommended for cleaning stove burners as it can damage the surface.
Q: How can I remove burnt-on sugar from my stove burners?
A: Apply a damp cloth soaked in white vinegar to the burnt-on sugar and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Then, gently scrape away the sugar with a non-abrasive scrubber.
