Cleaning the Stove Elements/Drip Trays
I noticed yesterday that THIS chore is one I really need to do. :) I love cooking, and if you do too you'll notice that under the stoves heating elements (rings) that a lot of GOOK and GUNK collects there, which can actually be dangerous - a fire hazard. Here is an easy way to clean this tricky part of the stove.
1. Behold the Power of Water - It was my husband who taught me that water is one of most powerful cleaners of all. (Personally, I think that's because he likes to just 'let things soak', but I digress...) And with a set of four gooey and messy drip pans from under your stove's heating elements, you'll be glad to hear this particular technique! All I do is fill the kitchen sink about one-third full - enough to completely coat all of the trays. When filling the sink, add a healthy squirt of natural dishwashing liquid (soap) and I like adding a few sprinkles of baking soda for good measure. Let this soak overnight...
2. Clean the actual heating elements - Reading the manual that came with your stove will help with this. A general rule of thumb is that the heating elements on electric stoves pop right out. Ensure that the stove is OFF and that the elements aren't at all warm before removing. You should be able to wipe these off with a soapy water mixture and a soft cloth or sponge.
3. The Final Drip Tray Cleaning - In the morning, after the drip trays have soaked all night, the gunk will wipe off easily! Just use a scrubby sponge if necessary to get any sticky bits off. Dry with a clean towel and replace underneath the heating elements.
What a difference a good cleaning can make! :)
