That sticky layer of grease around your stove can go from barely noticeable to thick, gummy buildup surprisingly fast. And once cooking oil has been heated over and over again, a quick wipe with a damp cloth usually isn’t enough.

The good news is that you don’t need Vaseline or an aggressive cleaner to tackle it. Warm water, a little dish soap, and the right technique can break down most everyday grease without damaging the surface. For tougher buildup, a cleaner specifically approved for your stove can save you a lot of scrubbing.

First, Know What Kind of Stove You Have

Before reaching for a scrubber, check whether you’re cleaning a glass or ceramic cooktop, stainless steel surface, or gas range.

This matters because a method that’s fine for a stainless-steel surface may scratch a glass cooktop.

For glass and ceramic cooktops, manufacturers commonly recommend non-abrasive cleaners and soft cleaning pads. Steel wool, abrasive powders, bleach, ammonia, and other harsh products can damage some surfaces.

If you’re unsure, your owner’s manual should always take priority.

What You’ll Need

For everyday grease buildup, gather:

• Warm water
• A few drops of liquid dish soap
• Microfiber cloths
• A soft, non-abrasive sponge
• A soft toothbrush for corners and around knobs

For stubborn buildup, you may also need a manufacturer-approved cooktop cleaner or kitchen degreaser.

Baking soda can be useful on some stove components and certain cooktops, but don’t automatically use it as a scrub on a delicate glass surface. Check the appliance instructions first.

Step 1: Turn Off the Stove and Let It Cool

Never start scrubbing a hot stovetop.

Turn off all burners and allow the surface to cool before cleaning. For removable grates and burner caps, wait until they’re cool enough to handle safely.

If you’re cleaning a glass cooktop, some manufacturers recommend removing residue while the surface is still slightly warm—but never hot. Follow your particular appliance’s instructions.

Step 2: Remove Loose Crumbs and Food

Before dealing with the grease, wipe away crumbs, dried food, and loose debris with a damp microfiber cloth.

This small step matters because rubbing loose grit across a smooth surface can create unnecessary scratches, particularly on glass cooktops.

Step 3: Let Dish Soap Break Down the Grease

For fresh or moderate grease, start with the simplest solution.

Mix a few drops of dish soap into warm water. Dip a soft sponge or microfiber cloth into the solution, wring it out, and wipe the greasy areas.

Don’t immediately start scrubbing hard. Give the soapy water a few minutes to loosen the grease first.

For stainless-steel surfaces, manufacturers commonly recommend diluted dish soap and a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge for routine cleaning.

Step 4: Give Stubborn Grease More Time

If the grease has hardened, soak a microfiber cloth in warm, soapy water, wring it out, and lay it over the affected area for several minutes.

The moisture and warmth help soften the buildup, making it easier to wipe away without excessive pressure.

For a glass cooktop with cooked-on residue, use a cooktop scraper specifically designed for ceramic glass if your manufacturer’s instructions allow it. Some models specifically warn against scrapers because their coatings can be damaged, so the owner’s manual matters here.

Step 5: Tackle the Edges and Around the Knobs

Grease has a habit of hiding in the places you don’t notice until you touch them.

Use a soft toothbrush to work around: