Sarah Drip pans are essential for catching spills and splatters on your stovetop, but they can become dirty and difficult to clean over time. High heat can cause burnt-on food, making it tough to remove, but there are several methods you can try to make your drip pans look like new again. Here are five ways to clean your stovetop drip pans:
Dishwashing Liquid
This is the mildest method, and it works best for fresh spills and splatters that have yet to dry or cake on. Simply fill your sink with hot water and add a few drops of dishwashing detergent with a grease-cutting ingredient. Soak the drip pans and any other removable components for at least 10 minutes, then wipe them down with a sponge or dishcloth. If there are tough spots, use a Mr. Clean Eraser to scrub them away. Rinse the clean drip pans in hot water and dry with a microfiber cloth before reinstalling them under the burners.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
For tougher grime, try mixing equal parts vinegar and baking soda to create a cleaning solution. Remove the drip pans and any other components, then soak them in the solution for at least an hour or overnight if necessary. Scrub the pans with a sponge or brush, then rinse and dry before reinstalling them.
Household Ammonia
Ammonia is a strong cleaner that is effective at breaking down grime and grease. To use this method, fill a resealable plastic bag with 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup of household ammonia. Place a drip pan in the bag, making sure it is fully submerged in the solution. Repeat with any other drip pans, then seal the bags and let them soak for at least an hour or overnight if necessary. Scrub the pans with a sponge or brush, then rinse and dry before reinstalling them.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that is effective at removing tough stains. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a small bowl, then use a sponge or brush to apply the solution to the drip pans. Scrub the pans, then rinse and dry before reinstalling them.
WD-40 and Dryer Sheets
If you need a quick fix, try using WD-40 or dryer sheets to clean your drip pans. Simply spray the pans with WD-40 and let them sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. Alternatively, moisten a used dryer sheet and use it to scrub the pans, then rinse and dry before reinstalling them.
Regardless of which method you choose, it’s important to clean your drip pans regularly to prevent build-up of food particles and grease. This can cause smoke and even fires, so aim to clean your drip pans after each use if possible, or at least weekly if you prepare food daily. And remember, always allow the burners to cool down completely before removing any parts, and pay attention to how the components fit so they can be replaced in the correct order. With these tips, you can keep your stovetop drip pans clean and in good working order.
