How To Clean Stove Drip Pans So They Look New
Learn how to clean stove drip pans using simple household items.
Getty Images
Sometimes, it’s easy to forget to clean specific parts of a kitchen appliance that you use daily. But if you neglect cleaning your stove drip pans regularly, you might start to notice a stinky smell coming from your stovetop.
Below, we asked Jacqueline Stein, a professional cleaner and the owner of Home Reimagined in Austin, Texas, for her best tips on how to properly clean stove drip pans for easy (and stink-free) stovetop cooking.
Meet The Expert
Jacqueline Stein is a professional cleaner and the owner of Home Reimagined in Austin, Texas.
Before Getting Started
It’s important to clean stove drip pans regularly to prevent the buildup of grease and food particles, which can cause unpleasant odors and even pose a fire risk. Before cleaning your stove drip pans, you always want to make sure that the stove is completely cool to avoid burns. Check if the drip pans are removable and safe for soaking or scrubbing, as some materials can scratch or warp with harsh cleaners or abrasive pads, according to Stein. Some materials are not suitable for submerging in water, so you want to reference your manual before starting.
It’s not advised to use aluminum foil to line drip pans, as it can trap heat and potentially damage the pans or stove. “While it might seem like a good way to keep them clean, the foil can reflect heat unevenly, causing issues with how your burners work,” explains Stein. “It can also be a dangerous way to cook—the foil can slip between the drip pan and the flame, causing a hazard for your safety.” It’s better to clean the pans regularly or use heat-safe drip pan liners designed for this purpose.
What You'll Need
Dishwashing liquid with grease-cutting properties
Distilled white vinegar
Baking soda
Household ammonia
Hydrogen peroxide
Sponges, dishcloths, and plastic scrubbers
Microfiber cloths
Resealable plastic bags
How To Clean Stove Drip Pans
Method 1: Using Dishwashing Liquid
Remove drip pans and any decorative rings immediately after spills.
Soak in hot, soapy water for at least 10 minutes.
Scrub with a sponge or dishcloth, using a Mr. Clean Eraser for tough spots.
Rinse and dry with a microfiber cloth before replacing.
Method 2: Using Vinegar and Baking Soda
Remove and shake off loose debris from drip pans.
Soak in hot, soapy water for 15 minutes.
Drain, then soak in vinegar for 30 minutes.
Sprinkle with baking soda and let sit for 15 minutes.
Scrub with a plastic scrubber if needed, rinse, and dry.
Method 3: Using Household Ammonia
Place each drip pan in a resealable plastic bag with 1/4 cup ammonia.
Seal and let sit for 12 hours in a well-ventilated area.
Open bags carefully, wash pans in hot, soapy water, rinse, and dry.
Method 4: Using Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
Coat drip pans with baking soda and pour hydrogen peroxide over them.
Let fizz and soak for 30 minutes.
Rinse and scrub away residue, repeating if necessary.
How To Get Rid of and Prevent Smells in Stove Drip Pans
To get rid of smells, Stein recommends soaking the drip pans in hot, soapy water with a splash of vinegar for about 15 minutes, then scrub thoroughly. “Baking soda can also help deodorize stubborn smells, but be careful not to scratch the material,” she warns. “To prevent odors, clean the pans regularly and wipe up spills as soon as they happen to stop food from burning onto the surface (which also helps you reduce the amount of scrubbing for next clean).”
Seasonal Upkeep for Stove Drip Pans
While it’s important to lightly clean stove drip pans regularly, you should also be deep cleaning the pans at the start of every season. This will help maintain the cleanliness of the stove drip pans (and of your cooking), as well as help keep your stove running as smoothly and efficiently as possible.
Frequently asked Questions
How often should I clean my stove drip pans?
Ideally, you should clean your drip pans once a week if you cook often. This prevents buildup from getting baked on, which can be much harder to clean later and can lead to unpleasant smells and stains.
Can I use aluminum foil to line my drip pans?
Stein doesn’t advise using aluminum foil to line drip pans because the foil can reflect heat unevenly, causing issues with how your burners work. Additionally, it is a dangerous way to cook your food, as the foil can slip between the drip pan and the flame, causing a hazard.
What is the best method for removing burnt-on food from drip pans?
For burnt-on food, Stein recommends soaking the pans in a mix of hot water and dish soap with a little baking soda for 30 minutes. Then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or brush. “For really stubborn spots, make a paste with baking soda and vinegar, apply it, let it sit, and scrub again,” she suggests. “I also love using Bar Keepers Friend for stubborn or stuck-on stains, as this will remove almost anything.”
Are there any eco-friendly cleaning solutions for stove drip pans?
Vinegar and baking soda are great eco-friendly options for cleaning stove drip pans. They’re effective at breaking down grease and removing burnt-on stains without using harsh chemicals, according to Stein. Lemon juice can also work well for deodorizing and cutting through grime. “And if you notice a little rust on them, add baking soda to your lemon and it will remove it right away,” says Stein.
How can I prevent my stove drip pans from getting dirty quickly?
The best way to keep them clean is to wipe up spills immediately after cooking, once the stove has cooled. “You can also use reusable, heat-resistant drip pan liners to catch spills, which are easy to remove and clean,” suggests Stein. “Remember that, as with anything, regular maintenance and cleaning helps prevent buildup, making future cleaning much easier.”
Related: How To Get That Burnt Food Smell Out Of Your House Fast
