Tips for making your cook top shine

kitchen34842932.jpg There are many different kinds of stove tops and many different ways to go about cleaning them. Depending on what type of cook top you have will determine the best way to take care of them and keep them clean. So, here are some tips for making your cook top shine:

What is the best way to make your cook top shine?
The best way for your cook top to shine is to clean the surface every day to remove any food that has been spilled. If you don't clean them daily, the constant heating and cooling of the surface will build up the remaining deposits and cause them to be more difficult to remove during the usual cleaning.

Many cook top products are not water-soluble. These products are very difficult to remove when cleaning is complete and often leave a film that reacts when water or another cleaner is used. This leaves an annoying haze on the surface that is frustrating to remove. So make sure to use water-soluble products.

Here are different ways to clean different cook tops:

Ceramic cook tops
The best way to clean a ceramic cook tops is to put a nonabrasive cleanser or baking soda over the surface and rub with a synthetic scouring pad or sponge. Rinse well with clear water, and buff with a soft cloth for a clean finish. This will ensure that you get the best shine for your cook top.

Porcelain enamel
The exteriors of most gas and electric ranges are porcelain enamel. The trim is usually chrome and the control knobs are usually plastic.

The easiest way to keep these clean is to wipe the surface around the heating elements after each use. Avoid using harsh abrasives or steel wool, which will damage the stove's enamel finish. Use a plastic scrubber and mild detergent or dish soap and water. It's important to wipe up spills right away because enamel can stain. Be careful of acidic spills like vinegar, tomato products, lemon juice, and other citrus products, for these tend to stain more.

Raise the cook top to wipe up spills that may have accumulated beneath the cook top surface. Remember to wash the drip pans and grids in warm soapy water whenever food or grease is spilled on them. You can also remove all the control knobs when you clean the exterior of the range to make the job easier. Soak the knobs in warm soapy water, and dry them with a soft towel before putting them back on.

Clean smooth cook tops
The great thing about a smooth cook top, is that there are no cracks or edges for food and spills to accumulate in or around.
Wipe down the top of a smooth cook top after each use. Smooth cook tops can be scratched, so remember to use a spoon rest, and wipe up any spills right away. For regular cleaning, wipe the cook top down with a mild detergent and water. You may want a more thorough cleaning a few times a month.

Gas burners
Gas burners should be washed occasionally. Clear the holes with a fine wire. Do not use a toothpick; it could break off and clog the hole.

Electric elements
Electric heating elements are self-cleaning and should never be submerged in water.

Here are some key things to keep in mind when cleaning your cook top.
Allow your cook top to cool before attempting to clean.
Only use a razor as an absolute last resort when trying to remove heavily burnt on material.
Do not use abrasive cleaning pads or wire cleaning pads.
Never use a wet sponge or cloth on a hot panel.
Don't set soiled pots or pans on the surface; they can ruin the top permanently.
Be careful not to use abrasive cleaning products, they will scratch the surface, and make it difficult to keep clean.

Keeping your kitchen and especially your cook top looking clean, is not always an easy task. When following these tips for making your cook top shine will ensure that your stove stays clean and looking like new. Take the time to make your cook top shine, you will be glad that you did!

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