Worse still, high heat from the burners can cause baked-on messes that are challenging to remove.
Cleaning and caring for cast-iron stove grates is straightforward, similar to the method used forcleaning cast-iron skillets.
The dishwashers long wash cycle exceeds the recommended length of time that cast iron should be wet.
Credit:Getty Images / Viacheslav Dvoretskyi
Dont soak uncoated cast-iron grates at all.
For efficiency,clean the stovetopwhile the grates enjoy their briefsoak in hot, soapy water.
Soak the Grates
Fill the sink with water and add dish soap.
Submerge the grates and allow them to soak for 5 to 10 minutes.
Dont exceed 10 minutes to prevent rust damage due to overexposure to water.
Avoid using abrasive cleaning agents and metal scouring pads, which can damage the cast iron.
Rinse the Grates
When the grates are clean, rinse them well with hot water.
Dry Grates
Dry the grates immediately after washing with an absorbent dish towel.
Rinse and dry the grates well after scouring them.
Oil the Grates
Apply a thin, even layer of neutral cooking oil to the grates.
In addition, clean cast-iron stove grates on an as-needed basis when major spills or splatters happen during cooking.
Cast-iron stove grates should be seasoned, much in the same way you would season a cast-iron pan.
For more information,consult our guidefor expert-approved tips and detailed instructions for seasoning cast iron.