The 5 Best Ways to Clean Your Cast Iron Stove Grates

Cleaning Your Cast Iron Stove Grates the Right Way

Cast iron stove grates have been around for centuries. With proper care and maintenance, your cast iron grates can last you a lifetime. Follow these steps to make sure your cast iron stove grates look shiny and new for years to come.

1. Scour with Salt and Vegetable Oil Paste

Mix together 1/2 cup of coarse salt with 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil to form a thick paste. Spread the paste over the surface of your cast iron stove grates. Use a soft scrubbing pad or a plastic scraper to gently remove any stuck-on particles. Rinse off the paste with a damp cloth and then dry the grates off completely.

2. Use a Self-Cleaning Oven Mode

Most newer ovens come with a self-cleaning mode. This function uses extreme heat to burn off any stubborn food residue that can’t be removed with scrubbing or scraping. Place the grates inside the oven and set the mode for the highest temperature. Once the self-cleaning cycle is complete, wait for the oven to cool and then use a damp cloth to wipe off any remaining residue or grime.

3. Make a Soapy Mixture

Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 4 tablespoons of dishwashing soap and 1/2 cup of hot water to form a thick paste. Spread the paste over your cast iron stove grates and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. Gently scrub off the paste with a soft brush or cloth and then rinse the grates off under a running faucet.

4. Soak the Grates

Put your stove grates into a sink or large bowl filled with hot, soapy water. Allow them to soak for 1-2 hours before scrubbing off any remaining food residue. Finally, rinse the grates off with clean water and let dry completely before putting them back in the oven.

5. Use a Commercial Cleaner

There are a number of commercial cleaners that are designed specifically for cast iron grates. Follow the instructions on the product packaging to ensure you are using the product correctly and safely. Be sure to wear gloves when handling the cleaner as it may contain strong, hazardous chemicals. Once the cleaner is applied, allow it to set for the recommended amount of time and then rinse it off with warm water.