Older gas stoves may have uncoated cast iron grates that require different cleaning steps.

Here’s how toclean coated or non-coated grateswith just a few supplies.

Warning

Never soak uncoated cast iron grates in water.

Stovetop with cleaned grates next to glass container of baking soda and slide of lemon

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

They will rust, which can permanently ruin them.

Likewise, the underlying cast iron will rust if the porcelain coating gets chipped.

Do not soak chipped grates.

Materials and tools to clean stovetop grates

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Replace chipped grates or follow cleaning instructions for uncoated cast iron grates.

Remove Rust Spots

Tips to Keep Stove Grates Clean and Lasting Longer

Stovetop grate removed and placed on wooden block to cool

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Dishwashing liquid poured into bucket of water for cleaning solution

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Stove grate dumped into bucket of water with cleaning solution

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Stiff-bristled nylon brush scrubbing stove grate in bucket of soapy water

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Stove grates covered with baking soda paste on wooden block

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Green dishwashing liquid poured into glass container with water

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Stiff-bristled nylon scrub brush cleaning cast iron stove grates

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Gray microfiber cloth drying cast iron stove grates

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Cast iron seasoned with vegetable oil and placed inside oven racks

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Cast iron stove grate covered with plastic wrap next to baking soda paste

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo