How to clean an electric stove top with metal coils.

Video: How to clean an electric stove top.

What you’ll need:

Get all your tools, supplies, and equipment ready before you start. Below is a list of what you need to clean your electric stove top:

• Microfiber cloth
• 1 cup of baking soda
• Glass cleaner (optional)
• Some paper towels
• Sponge
• Spray bottle
• Warm, soapy water (water and dish soap)
• White vinegar
• Plastic scrubber
• Steel wool pad

Note: Before you begin, it's also worth reviewing your owner's manual and manufacturer guidelines. The manufacturer may suggest specific stove top cleaners and cleaning steps not covered in this article.

Step 1: Make sure your stove is off and cool.

Safety first. Make sure the electric stove top is switched off. If you used it recently, give the heating elements or coils enough time to cool down completely.

If the stove coils or plates are still warm, put the cleaning project on ice until they have cooled down. The last thing you want to do is burn yourself.

Step 2: Wipe off grime and food debris.

Use a damp microfiber cloth to remove burned food and other residue. Dip the microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge in soapy warm water. Gently wipe the metal coils and the rest of the stove top.

Step 3: Remove the coils.

Not every electric stove top has coils. If yours does, remove them by gently lifting them off the stove. This will make cleaning the coils and the surface underneath them much easier. Set the coils aside for now.

Step 4: Wash the burner bowls.

Next up is the burner bowl (sometimes called stove drip pans or drip bowls). You can wash burner bowls with warm water mixed with dish soap.

You can also soak these pans in water, but don't run them through the dishwasher. Use a plastic scrubber to remove stubborn stains, if needed.

Step 5: Lift up the cooktop.

To clean the surface underneath the stove top, you'll need to lift it up. Lift the two front corners of your cooktop until it looks into place (this may vary by model. Consult your owner's manual if you're having trouble lifting up the cooktop). Do not fully remove the cooktop.

Step 6: Clean the surface under the cooktop.

Baking soda and white vinegar are great cleaning agents, and can help remove grime and stains from your electric stove. Both ingredients are cheap, easy on the environment and generally something you'll already have in your pantry. 

Using a vinegar cleaning solution is an optional step. To create it, mix 1 part white vinegar and 1 part water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stove top's surface. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean with a microfiber cloth.

Next, it's time to create a baking soda paste. Mix 1 cup of baking soda with about 1/3 cup of water) to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the surface underneath the stove top. Leave the paste to work its magic for about 20 minutes.

Step 7: Scrub, wipe and dry the surface.

After about 15-20 minutes, gently scrub the surface of your electric stove top. Get rid of any dirt and grime you see. You may need to use a steel wool pad if the stains are more stubborn.

Once satisfied with the result, wipe the surface dry with a microfiber cloth.

Step 8: Wash the coils.

Give the coils a good once over with a damp sponge. Remove as much dirt, grime and debris as you possibly can (without causing damage to yourself or the coils). However, do not submerge electric stove coils into water and soak them.

Once you're happy with their cleanliness, rinse and dry them thoroughly.

Step 9: Put the coils back.

If you have an electric stove top with coils, now is the time to place them back in their rightful places. Only place the coils back on the stove once they've been thoroughly cleaned and dried.

Cleaning a stove is something most people can do themselves. However, don't underestimate the time and energy it takes to get the job done. If you're short on time and energy, simply hire a professional cleaner who can take the chore off your hands.

Hire a pro to clean, maintain or repair your electric stove.

Did you notice that something was faulty, broken or in need of some maintenance while cleaning your electric stove? If so, don't worry — we've got you covered. Simply download the Thumbtack app and hire a pro to inspect, clean, or fix your appliance. 

On Thumbtack, you can find appliance repair technicians, house cleaners, handyman and other types of pros for every home project. Start comparing pros and receiving price quotes today.

Related: How to clean stainless steel appliances, sinks, counters & more.

FAQs.

How often should I clean my electric stove top? 

You don't necessarily have to do a deep clean every time, but it is recommended that you wipe down your stove top regularly. Make it a habit to wipe down your stove after every use.

If you use your stove often, consider deep cleaning it at least once a month.

Should I soak the coils in water to clean them?

No, do not soak your electric stove coils in water. Instead, use a damp cloth or non-abrasive sponge to clean the coils.

Up next: How to clean an oven inside and out.