Instructions for Cleaning the Cast-Iron Grates on a Gas Range

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Cleaning the cast-iron grates on a gas range is a simple process that can help maintain the longevity and performance of your stove. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Remove the grates from the gas range and place them in a sink or large basin.

2. Fill the sink with hot, soapy water and let the grates soak for about 15-20 minutes.

3. Scrub the grates with a brush or sponge to remove any stuck-on food or residue.

4. Rinse the grates thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap and debris.

5. Dry the grates completely before placing them back on the gas range.

6. For tougher stains or buildup, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the grates and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Regular cleaning of your cast-iron grates will help prevent rust and ensure optimal cooking performance.


When food, grease, and oil spills stick to the cast-iron grates of a gas stove, they can create unpleasant fumes and odors. To keep your kitchen smelling fresh while you cook, it is recommended to clean these sturdy and heavy grates at least once a month. The cleaning methods will vary depending on the level of dirtiness.

Necessary Supplies

Before starting the cleaning process, gather all the necessary supplies to thoroughly clean the cast-iron grates and burn caps. You will need dish soap specifically formulated to cut through grease, a nylon scrubber (for enameled cast-iron), a dishtowel, hot water, and a non-abrasive or powder cleanser. It is helpful to have a large sink or tub to soak the grates, as they may require soaking to remove stubborn food stains. Additionally, wear a pair of dishwashing gloves to protect your hands from the hot water.

Loosening the Grease

Wait for the grates to cool down before washing them. It is safer to handle them when they are cool, and they won’t crack when exposed to colder water. Once cooled, place the grate inside a sink or tub and fill it with hot water. Allow the grate to soak in the hot water for up to 30 minutes. This will help loosen any stuck-on food debris and cut through the grease. If your tap water is not hot enough, you can boil water in a teakettle or pot and pour it over the grate in the sink.

Cleaning the Grates

Add a squirt or two of grease-cutting dishwashing detergent to a sink filled with clean hot water. Place the grates in the sink and let them soak for up to 15 minutes. Use a wet nylon scour pad with a non-abrasive cleaner to scrub the grates and remove stubborn food spills. Repeat this process as necessary until the grates are clean. Afterward, let the grates soak in the sink for about five minutes or allow the wet cleanser to sit on tough spills outside of the sink to soften them.

Finishing Up

Drain the sink and rinse the grates with cool water. Make sure to thoroughly rinse off all soap and cleanser during this process. Once all the soap and cleanser are removed, dry the grates completely with a soft, clean cloth to prevent rust. After removing all baked-on food and achieving relatively clean grates, you can maintain their cleanliness by placing them in the dishwasher and using the “pots and pans” setting. Additionally, remove the stove knobs and burner caps and include them in the dishwasher load along with pots and pans.

If you have stains on 100 percent enameled cast-iron grates, burners, or caps, you can add them to a large sealable bag or container with a cover. Add 1/4 cup of ammonia and let them sit for three hours to overnight. However, do not use this method on unfinished cast-iron surfaces.

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