Anyone that owns a stove knows that it must be cleaned, but how can you properly clean your stove? Using the right chemicals that are safe and designed for stove and oven use are very important, but frequency and technique can also keep bad bacteria from growing on surfaces of your stove top.
Depending on the stove in your home, you will have to use a special technique. Glass top electric stoves are very particular and you can not use just any chemical on them. They require a special cleaner so that the surface is not damaged. You also have to be wary of scratching the surface. If food is stuck on top you must either softly scrape away excess or use a razor blade to gently remove the food particles.
Gas models are even more difficult to clean than electric. You must avoid using highly flammable chemicals while cleaning these. If you do, you run the risk of it catching on fire -even if only a very small amount of chemical is left behind. That case, soap, water, or water and vinegar work well to kill bacteria with gentle scrubbing.
When it comes to cleaning an oven you have to use a very specific method. A special cleaner is required, and self cleaning ovens usually do not get the job done. You have to be careful not to leave ANY chemicals on the surfaces inside as well. Self cleaning ovens use higher temperatures, so be prepared to do this when you can monitor the oven for a few hours while it does the job. Never leave the room when it is cleaning itself because a fire is possible. Knowing how to properly clean your cooking appliances can give it a longer life and keep you using a sanitary appliance for many years to come.