How To Clean Cast Iron Stove Grates

When it comes to cleaning your kitchen, it is possible that cleaning the grate on your stovetop isn't a priority.Someday, you will have yourself a priority on your hands, as the cooking debris, oil, and debris can result in a hefty crust.The task is more manageable if you use one or a series of tried and true methods.

Step 1: The surface appears wet if you soak it with enough degreaser.

To make sure the grate stays wet during the soaking process, you need to use enough degreaser.That wet look lets you know that the product can get in and go to work.

Step 2: There is plenty of time for the degreaser to do its job.

You will need to let the degreaser sit for 15 to 30 minutes depending on the level of gunk built up.As you wait, keep an eye on the grates because they are still wet.Let them sit for up to 30 minutes if they are starting to dry out.

Step 3: The proper scrubbing tool is needed to remove the excess dirt.

While cast iron may seem sturdy enough to scrub with steel wool, you will want to use a non-abrasive sponge to clean the grate thoroughly.It will not leave your grate with a bunch of ugly scratches.

Step 4: You can measure the size of your grate.

You will need to determine what size bag is appropriate for your stovetop grate.You could clean all the grates in one bag.Pick several gallon size bags for cleaning the grate.If you are going to clean the grate, make sure you find a large garbage bag that is well sealed.

Step 5: seal your bag with ammonia to keep fumes out.

The method does not use liquid ammonia.The fumes from the ammonia build-up loosen the gunk over time.If you let the grate sit overnight, it will take as little as 3 hours to clean.For sealed bags, use a 4 c (59 mL) of ammonia.If you use a larger bag, you can use up to 2 c of ammonia.

Step 6: Under the warm running water, remove and rinse your grate.

Ammonia is the most widely used method.Most of the stuff should wash off.You may need to use a sponge or fingers to clean up the gunk.

Step 7: Warm water will wash the grates.

The initial wash will remove any surface layers that can easily be washed away, allowing the baking soda to work on the harder material underneath.

Step 8: Baking soda and water can be combined to make a thick paste.

It is possible to substitute the water for a deeper cleaning agent.The goal is for the paste to be thick enough to coat the grates.

Step 9: Let the grates stand for an hour after coating them with paste.

As it sets in, the caustic mixture will erode any excess build-up.At every grade-school science fair, you will see what the baking soda can do.

Step 10: Use a non-abrasive sponge to scrub off the build-up.

The method should work on the first go.You can repeat this process a second time if you find yourself with a lot of grease.

Step 11: The solution should be equal parts water and vinegar.

For easy application, pour the solution into a spray bottle.The grate will be broken up by the acid in the vinegar.If you don't feel like using ammonia or degreasers, you can use this solution.The best way to get rid of grease stains is with this cleaning method.

Step 12: Let the grate stand for at least 15 minutes.

Significant soak time is recommended to penetrate the layers of grease as you are using a more natural clean agent.

Step 13: The grate should be washed with a sponge.

You should be able to get rid of the excess residue on the grate with a little extra scrubbing.You can repeat this process if you find that your grate still has something on it.You can use a toothbrush to clean hard to reach nooks and crevices.