How to Clean Stuck-on Food on a Cooktop

Gas and Electric Cooktops

• 1

  Allow the stove to cool completely before you try to remove the stuck-on food.

• 2

  Remove the burners from a gas stove or the elements from an electric stove. Soak the gas burners in hot, soapy water. Do not immerse the electric elements in water because they are self-cleaning. Soak drip pans in the water to remove stuck-on food and grease.

• 3

  Remove tough stuck-on food with a wooden scraper. The scraper dislodges the food without scratching the surface.

• 4

  Clean the stuck-on food stain by dampening the area with water. Sprinkle baking soda over the surface, and scrub it with a washcloth or a nonabrasive sponge.

• 5

  Scrub the burners and drip pans with a sponge after they soak for at least 30 minutes.

• 6

  Rinse the stove top, burners and drip pans. Dry them thoroughly with a towel.

Ceramic Cooktops

• 7

  Let the ceramic cooktop cool completely.

• 8

  Wipe the surface of the ceramic cooktop with a damp washcloth to remove loose food and debris.

• 9

  Remove stuck-on food carefully with a razor blade. Hold the razor blade firmly at a 30-degree angle. Scrape the food or burned-on stain gently from the stove top.

• 10

  Apply a commercial ceramic cooktop cleaner to the area. Follow the directions carefully so you do not damage the cooktop.

• 11

  Rinse the stove top with a dishcloth and clean water. Dry the stove top with a towel.