White vinegar: for stubborn stains
When grease has been sitting for days or weeks, bring out vinegar.
- Place grates in a large basin
- Cover with hot white vinegar, add coarse salt, then baking soda
- Let sit for several hours or overnight
- Scrub with a sponge or old toothbrush
Bonus: vinegar removes bad odors too.
Lemon: for freshness and shine
For a deeper clean without strong smells:
- Place grates in a large sealed freezer bag
- Add hot water and juice of two lemons
- Let sit for 2–3 hours
- Rinse and scrub if needed
Lemon leaves a fresh, natural scent.
Daily habits to avoid heavy cleaning
- Wipe grates daily with a damp sponge and dish soap
- Clean corners with a small brush or vinegar-soaked cotton swab
- Soak burner supports once a week in soapy water
Extra tip: Lightly rubbing the grates with a bit of olive oil can help prevent grease from sticking again.
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