Step-by-Step Method
1. Mix the Magic Paste
In a bowl, combine baking soda and vinegar. The mixture will fizz for a few seconds—that’s good! Once it settles, stir in a few drops of dish soap. You should have a slightly foamy, spreadable paste.
2. Apply Generously
Use a cloth or sponge to spread the paste over the soot-stained areas. Be sure to cover corners, crevices, and around stove grates or doors.
3. Let It Sit
Allow the mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes. This gives the baking soda time to lift the soot, while the vinegar cuts through grime and the dish soap tackles grease.
4. Scrub Gently
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or non-abrasive pad to scrub stubborn spots. Be patient—this step is more about loosening residue than forcing it off.
5. Wipe Clean
Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe away the paste and the lifted soot. Rinse the cloth frequently in warm water and go over the surface until it’s completely clean.
6. Buff and Shine
Dry the surface with a clean, dry cloth. For a little extra shine, you can buff with a small dab of olive oil or stove polish.
Why This Works
Baking Soda: A gentle abrasive that lifts soot without scratching surfaces.
White Vinegar: Cuts through grease and neutralizes odors.
Dish Soap: Breaks down oily residue, making soot easier to remove.
Together, these ingredients create a powerful, natural cleaner that’s safe for enamel, cast iron, and even glass stove doors.
My Aunt’s Bonus Tip
Before applying this method, turn off and cool the stove completely. Always test a small area first, especially on painted or delicate finishes.
She also recommends doing this cleaning once a month, or more often during heavy-use seasons like winter. It keeps buildup from becoming unmanageable and keeps your stove looking brand new all year round.
The Final Result
After using this method, your stove won’t just be clean—it’ll shine. No soot stains, no greasy haze, no chemical smells. Just a gleaming surface that looks like it came straight from the showroom.
My aunt swears by this simple formula, and after trying it for myself, I can confidently say: it works like magic.
Give It a Try!
Whether you’re battling a season’s worth of buildup or just want your stove to sparkle, this easy, budget-friendly method is all you need. Try it once, and like me, you’ll be telling everyone about "my aunt’s secret" too.
