Clean your cooktop, oven and range!
Let’s start with electric cooktops. They can have coiled burners or a smooth surface.
1. Coiled Burners:
Coiled burners will typically burn off any spills. The drip bowls underneath can be easily taken out for cleaning. For larger spills, wait until it’s cool, then learn how your cooktop “opens”; most models are hinged and open just like a car hood. This will allow you to clean underneath the burners.
2. Smooth Cooktops:
Smooth tops require more care. They can scratch and stain. Spills should be cleaned immediately and abrasive cleaners should be avoided unless stated otherwise in the owner’s manual. Try the white foam sponges and pads that magically erase stains without scratching.
3. Gas Cooktops:
Gas cooktops can have 4-6 burners and may have features such as a grill or griddle.
Spills on grates and burners will usually burn off or you can scrape the residue off. Larger spills should be cleaned as soon as the affected area has cooled off. If the burner orifices get clogged, you’ll notice uneven flames. To unclog orifices, gently poke a wooden toothpick through. Use of a metal tool, such as a skewer or paper clip, should be done with care.
*Has your burner ever started clicking by itself and doesn’t stop? Either a spill or too much cleaning solution has gotten the spark igniter wet. Wipe up any excess liquid. Unless the spark igniter is damaged, it will eventually stop clicking.
4. Electric Ovens:
Electric ovens typically have a bake/broil element attached to the top of the oven cavity.
5. Gas Ovens:
Gas ovens typically have a burner under the oven cavity. There may be a lower drawer which functions as the broiler. Do not line the bottom of the cavity with foil; it may cover the vents which let the heat from the burner into the oven cavity.
To Clean Both Types of Ovens…
Oven racks can be removed and cleaned as needed. Spills should be wiped up as soon as the oven has cooled to avoid smoking and burning during the next use.
When using a chemical oven cleaner, follow the directions very carefully; the fumes are noxious and the chemical is caustic.
If you have a self-cleaning oven, try to scrape up and remove any residue from the bottom of the oven cavity before you start. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and don’t try to force the oven door open until the cycle is finished. The white ash that’s left can easily be wiped up after the cycle is complete and the oven has cooled.
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