Cleaning stove burners and the surrounding stovetop area can be a simple task using common household items like a dishwasher tablet. This method is particularly effective for tackling old food spills on the stovetop surface around where the burners sit.
Using a dishwasher tablet dissolved in hot water offers a powerful cleaning solution for grease and grime build-up. While this specific method focuses on cleaning the stovetop surface after removing burners, it's a crucial step in maintaining a clean cooking area.
Simple Steps for Stovetop Cleaning with a Dishwasher Tablet
This method utilizes the cleaning power of a dishwasher tablet to address spills and residues on the stovetop itself, often found around and beneath the burners.
Here’s how you can use a dishwasher tablet for cleaning your stovetop, based on the provided information:
- Prepare the Cleaning Solution:
- Take a dishwasher tablet and place it in a bowl.
- Add hot water to the bowl.
- Use a spoon to help break up the tablet as it dissolves in the hot water.
- Prepare the Stovetop:
- Ensure your stovetop is cool to the touch before starting.
- Carefully remove any grates and burners from your stovetop. This step reveals the stovetop surface underneath where old food spills and grime often accumulate.
- Apply and Scrub:
- Once the dishwasher tablet has fully dissolved, you will have a soapy, potent cleaning liquid.
- Soak a sponge in this soapy liquid.
- Use the soaked sponge to scrub your stovetop surface thoroughly. Focus on areas with old food spills and stubborn residue.
- Continue scrubbing until the stovetop is clean and shiny.
Reference Information: "Set a tablet in a bowl with hot water and break it up with a spoon. Meanwhile, remove any grates and burners from your stovetop to reveal old food spills. Once the tablet has fully dissolved, soak a sponge in the soapy liquid and scrub your stovetop until clean and shiny." (02-Aug-2023)
Supplies Needed
A few basic items are required for this cleaning method:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dishwasher Tablet | Main cleaning agent |
| Bowl | To dissolve the tablet |
| Hot Water | Activates the tablet |
| Spoon | Helps break up the tablet |
| Sponge | For applying solution and scrubbing |
Practical Tips for Best Results
- Always ensure the stove is completely cool before you begin cleaning to avoid burns.
- Removing grates and burners not only gives you access to the spills but also prevents them from getting wet if they are not water-safe (like some electric coil drip pans).
- For very tough, baked-on spills, you might let the solution sit on the spot for a few minutes before scrubbing, but be cautious with dwell times depending on your stovetop material. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
- After scrubbing, rinse the area with clean water and dry thoroughly to prevent water spots.
This method is specifically for cleaning the stovetop surface underneath the burners and grates using a dissolved dishwasher tablet.
