Cleaning stovetop burners is one of those chores many of us put off. Between splattered sauces, simmering spills, and layers of greasy buildup, it often feels like you need hours—and serious muscle—to get them looking clean again. Luckily, my nana passed down a simple, low-effort trick that cuts through grime without scrubbing yourself tired. Even better, you probably already have the two magic ingredients in your kitchen.
The Simple Secret: Baking Soda + Vinegar
It sounds almost too easy, but this classic combination is an unbeatable cleaning duo. Together, baking soda and vinegar loosen stubborn grease, lift away grime, and save you from scrubbing with harsh chemical cleaners.
Why This Combo Works
- Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that scrubs without scratching. Because it’s alkaline, it helps break down acidic grease and food residue.
- Vinegar is naturally acidic, making it great at dissolving grease, minerals, and hardened grime.
- When you mix the two, they fizz. This bubbly reaction helps lift dirt and debris, making everything easier to wipe clean.
How to Clean Your Stovetop Burners
What You’ll Need
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Spray bottle
- Hot water
- Sponge or soft cloth
- Optional: old toothbrush for extra scrubbing
Step 1: Remove the Burners
Make sure the stove is completely cool, then lift off the burners. If you’re unsure how to remove them, check your appliance manual.
Step 2: Coat With Baking Soda
Lay down a towel or some paper towels to protect your counters. Place the burners on top and sprinkle baking soda generously over every greasy spot.
Step 3: Spray With Vinegar
Pour vinegar into a spray bottle and mist it over the baking soda. The mixture will start to bubble—that’s the cleaning magic happening. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Step 4: Soak in Hot Water
Fill your sink with hot water. Once the fizzing slows down, transfer the burners into the sink and let them soak for 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how dirty they are.
Step 5: Wipe Away the Grime
After soaking, wipe the burners with a sponge or soft cloth. Any stubborn residue should come off easily. Use an old toothbrush for tight or greasy spots.
Step 6: Rinse and Dry
Rinse the burners thoroughly to wash away any leftover baking soda or vinegar. Dry completely before placing them back on the stovetop.
Bonus Tips for Keeping Burners Clean
- Wipe spills right away: Quick cleanups prevent tough buildup later.
- Use drip pans: These catch spills and make cleaning easier if you have a gas stove.
- Avoid harsh scrubbers: Stick to non-abrasive sponges to protect your burners.
- Line with foil: A simple sheet of aluminum foil under the burners can catch grease and be swapped out anytime.
- Do a deep clean every few months: The baking soda and vinegar method keeps burners working efficiently and looking great.
Why This Method Is So Effective
This technique works because it lets the ingredients—and hot water—do most of the work for you. Baking soda and vinegar break down grease naturally, while soaking loosens anything left behind. The result? Clean, shiny burners with very little effort and no toxic chemicals.
The next time your stovetop looks a little dull or greasy, try this easy nana-approved trick. You’ll be surprised at how effortlessly the grime disappears—and how satisfying it is to see your burners gleam again.
