How to Clean a Gas Stove Top in 7 Easy Steps

Your gas stove sees action every day, but how often are you showing it a little tender loving care? In just a few days, it can go from sparkling clean to gunky, greasy, splashed and splattered. Burnt-on stains in particular can become permanent unless addressed quickly. To keep your gas stove top surface fit for food service, and your burner heads rust-free and firing efficiently, follow these easy steps to maintain a clean gas stove top. 

How Often Should You Clean Your Gas Stove Top?

If you can get into the habit of wiping down your stovetop after each use (or at least daily) with our All-Surface Wipes, then you’ll save yourself a scrubbing session later on. Just a quick wipe will remove the sheen of oil that our eyes don’t always see, but which can accumulate dust and dirt. Otherwise, aim to clean your gas stove top at least weekly as part of your regular cleaning routine. It only takes a few minutes and it will improve your kitchen’s appearance instantly. 

Step 1: Allow your range to cool

Those ceramic burner caps and metal burner heads take a few minutes to lose their heat, so wait a while if you want to avoid burnt fingers. Make yourself a refreshing beverage and browse our blog while you wait. 

Step 2: Turn off the gas supply

Better safe than sorry. It’s just a precaution, but whenever you’re dissembling the parts of your gas stove top, it’s a good idea to cut off the gas supply for peace of mind. 

Step 3: Gather your materials

You don’t need much, but if you start with the right materials you can achieve miracles. Keep a kit containing gentle scrub brushes or old toothbrushes, microfiber cloths, paper towels, and a non-abrasive cleaning solution. Steer clear of some of the better-known kitchen cleaner brands which often contain ammonia, phosphates or abrasives. You don’t want these chemicals around food prep areas or stone surfaces. 

Step 4: Disassemble your stovetop

Remove the grates, burner caps, burner heads and control knobs (if detachable) so that you can get complete access to the stovetop. These parts are the first to accumulate grease and grime, so take the opportunity to soak them in warm, soapy water while you tackle the main task. 

Step 5: Clean your gas stove top

It’s time for our Granite Gold® All-Surface Cleaner to shine (literally). Spray it liberally over the stovetop and wait for the foaming action to loosen encrusted dirt and lift grease away from the surface. You don’t have to worry about overspray or damaging nearby granite countertops. Our go-to All-Surface Cleaner is safe on stone surfaces, stainless steel and cooktops, and more. 

Step 6: Dry with a cloth or towel

In most cases, our All-Surface Cleaner will break down the gunk and cut through the grease all by itself in just a few minutes. For tougher stains or burnt-on residue that have been there for a while, however, loosen gently with a toothbrush or scrubbing brush. 

Once you’re done, simply remove the residue with a damp microfiber cloth and finish off with a paper towel to take care of any moisture. Go slowly around the burner as both microfiber cloths and paper towels tend to catch on the nozzle and may block it. 

Step 7: Restore the stove top parts

Scrub/brush the soaking burner caps, heads and knobs and rinse under warm water to remove any soap residue. Dry off with a paper towel. You never want to put damp or wet components back on the stove top or you’ll allow rust to flourish. 

Stove Top Cleaning Do’s and Don'ts

If you want to clean like a professional, avoid these common mistakes and follow these tried and tested tips instead:

• DO dry off everything. Apart from causing rust, moisture can also block burner heads that then splutter, choke or even go out while you’re cooking. 
• DON’T use vinegar, citrus-based cleaners, baking soda or the other natural cleaning products you’ll often see recommended on home care sites. While they’re a welcome alternative to phosphate- or ammonia-infused commercial solutions, they’re off the menu once you’re the proud owner of a granite or natural stone countertop. 
• DON’T use strong abrasives, whether it’s a homemade paste or a metal brush or scourer. You don’t need these if you’re using Granite Gold® and they will damage your stainless steel or enamel surface. 
• DON’T use a knife to loosen encrusted stains. You’ll leave unsightly scratches. 
• DON’T line your stove top with aluminum foil. You might see restaurants do this but a) it’s unnecessary if you’re cleaning your stove top regularly and b) aluminum can actually melt at high enough temperatures and stick permanently onto the surface.

Breathe New Life into Your Stovetop

If you’re sighing at the sight of your stove top right now, you’re probably not alone. Cooking up tasty meals for your family and friends can leave your stove top looking worse for wear. Splattered oils, baked-on food, and burner gunk can make your cooktop seem like an endless chore. But keeping your stove looking spick and span doesn't have to be difficult or take up your precious time.

It’s easy to make light work of the task with our Granite Gold® All-Surface Cleaner. Start your next culinary adventure with a spotless, shiny surface on the stove, and a refreshing citrus scent in the kitchen. For more helpful kitchen tips, visit the Granite Gold blog.