How To Clean Stovetop Grates The Right Way

A step-by-step guide to thoroughly cleaning dirty gas stovetop grates in just 30 minutes

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Cleaning gas stovetop grates is important to prevent grease and build-up that can cause fires, smells, and a grimy appearance. Depending on the material of the grates, they can be cleaned by soaking and scrubbing with household ingredients like dish detergent, vinegar, or baking soda. Experts recommend cleaning stovetop grates once a week if cooking frequently to keep them looking and functioning their best.

Why it matters

Gas-burning stoves are popular for their quick heating and even heat distribution, but the open flame means any built-up food or grease on the burners can be a fire hazard. Regularly cleaning stovetop grates helps maintain a safe and clean cooking environment.

The details

To clean stovetop grates, first remove them from the cooktop and allow them to fully cool. Soak the grates in warm water mixed with dish detergent, vinegar, or a baking soda paste for 15-30 minutes to loosen grime. Then use a scrub brush or scouring pad to scrub away any stuck-on residue. Rinse the grates thoroughly and dry them with a soft towel. For uncoated cast-iron grates, avoid soaking in water and instead use a stiff-bristled nylon brush and baking soda to clean. Seasoning cast-iron grates after cleaning helps prevent rust.

  • Experts recommend cleaning stovetop grates once a week if cooking frequently.

The players

Myhanh Truong

Senior specialist application engineer at 3M.

Sara San Angelo

A professional home cleaner and founder of Confessions of a Cleaning Lady in Charleston, South Carolina.

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What they’re saying

“Cleaning stovetop grates once in a while will make your stovetop sparkle and get the entire kitchen looking just a little bit better. The longer you put off the cleaning process, the more stubborn those burnt-on spills and crumbs will become, making for a smelly reminder every time you cook on the stovetop.”

— Myhanh Truong, Senior specialist application engineer

“Besides being a mess, the leftover food on your stovetop grates can leave a smell every time you cook.”

— Myhanh Truong, Senior specialist application engineer

“The longer you wait to clean these messes, the harder it is to get them or to prevent fires.”

— Sara San Angelo, Professional home cleaner and founder of Confessions of a Cleaning Lady

The takeaway

Regularly cleaning stovetop grates is an important safety and maintenance task to prevent fire hazards, unpleasant odors, and a grimy cooking surface. With the right cleaning methods for the grate material, this chore can be completed quickly and easily to keep your kitchen in top shape.