How To Clean A Coil Stove & Melted Plastic

How To Clean A Coil Stove

A common fixture in many homes, coil stoves are renowned for their dependability and longevity. However, unlike smooth-top ranges, electric coil stoves require routine maintenance to remain safe and operational. If you’ve ever wondered how to clean a coil stove, deal with untidy drip pans, or remove melted plastic from your burner, this is your best resource. Let’s dive into the specifics of how to properly clean an electric coil stove without causing any stress or harm.

Reasons for Frequently Cleaning Your Coil Stove

Before beginning the steps, it’s important to understand why cleaning your coil stove matters. A dirty stove is not only unsightly—it can also be a fire hazard. Spills, food residue, and grease can overheat, smoke, or even burn.

Dirty coils also:

Perform poorly,
Emit strange odors,
Distribute heat unevenly.

A regular cleaning schedule ensures your food cooks more evenly and your kitchen stays safer.

Items You’ll Require

Before getting started, gather the following supplies:

Dish soap
Baking soda
White vinegar
A non-abrasive cloth or sponge
An old toothbrush or one with soft bristles
A silicone or plastic scraping spatula
Microfiber cloths or paper towels
A basin or bucket to soak drip pans

Optional:

Bar Keepers Friend (for stubborn stains)
WD-40 (for melted plastic)
Rubber gloves (for hand protection)

In Detail: Cleaning a Coil Stove

Step 1: Switch Off the Stove and Disconnect It

This is the most crucial step for your safety. Unplug the stove from the wall if possible to reduce the risk of electric shock. If the stove is hardwired, ensure all the burner knobs are turned off and the surface is cool to the touch.

Step 2: Remove the Coil Burners

Gently remove each coil element from its socket. Most will disconnect with a gentle tug—don’t force them. Place the coils on a towel while you work on the drip pans and stovetop.

Is It Safe to Put Stove Coils in Water?
No. Never fully submerge electric stove coils in water. Though the metal part can handle a damp wipe-down, the electrical connections can short-circuit or corrode if they get wet.
Instead, clean with a damp cloth or sponge and ensure they are completely dry before plugging them back in.

Step 3: Take the Drip Pans Out and Soak Them

Drip pans are magnets for greasy splatters and spills. Remove them and soak in hot water with dish soap in a sink or basin for at least 30 minutes.

How Are Drip Pans on Electric Coil Stoves Cleaned?
After soaking, scrub off grime using a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush.
For stubborn stains, apply a paste of baking soda and water, let sit for 15 minutes, then scrub again.
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a towel.

If still discolored:

Use Bar Keepers Friend,
Or seal in a plastic bag with ammonia overnight.
Rinse well and air dry before reassembling.

Step 4: Scrub the Surface of the Stove

With the drip pans and burners removed, clean the stovetop:

Wipe with a sponge and warm dish soap solution.
For tougher spots, apply a mix of vinegar and baking soda.
Let it bubble for a few minutes, then gently scrub.

This bubbling reaction helps lift baked-on grease without scratching the surface.
Avoid getting water or cleaner in the burner sockets.

Step 5: Scrub the Coils (Just the Surface)

Use a sponge or cloth soaked in warm, soapy water to wipe the coils. The cloth should be damp but not dripping.

For tough grease, use a bit of baking soda on a towel to gently scrub.
Wipe with a dry cloth and allow the coils to air dry fully.

Step 6: Put the Stove Back Together

Once everything is clean and dry:

Reconnect the coil burners carefully.
Insert the drip pans.
Plug the stove back in.

Give the surface a final polish with a dry microfiber cloth.

Your stove should now look nearly brand new!

How to Remove Melted Plastic from a Stove Coil

Leaving a plastic spoon or container on a hot burner happens more often than you’d think. Here’s how to handle it:

Step 1: Turn Off the Burner Immediately

Let the coil cool completely before attempting removal.

Step 2: Scrape Off the Solidified Plastic

Once hardened, gently scrape with a plastic or silicone spatula.
Avoid metal tools, which can scratch or damage the coil.

Step 3: Apply WD-40 or Baking Soda Paste

Cover remaining plastic with a baking soda and water paste.
Let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then scrub gently with a toothbrush.

OR mist lightly with WD-40 (after cooling), let sit, and wipe with a paper towel.
Be sure to wash with dish soap afterward to remove residue.

Never “burn off” plastic by turning on the burner. This produces toxic fumes and may damage the coil.

How Frequently Should a Coil Stove Be Cleaned?

To maintain peak stove performance:

Daily/Weekly: Wipe up spills with a damp cloth.
Monthly: Deep clean the stovetop, coil surfaces, and drip pans.
Every 3 Months (or as needed): Use vinegar, baking soda, or Bar Keepers Friend for stubborn buildup.

A clean stove not only looks better—it also lasts longer and cooks more efficiently.

Tips for Maintenance to Avoid Buildup

Use burner covers for sticky meals.
Clean spills immediately before they harden.
Avoid overfilling pans, a common cause of messes.
Check cookware for warping, which causes uneven heating and spillage.

What Happens If Your Stove Coils Don’t Heat Evenly?

If one coil isn’t heating well after cleaning:

Check that it’s firmly plugged in.
If still not working, it may be burned out and need replacement.

Frequent spills and improper cleaning can shorten coil lifespan

Cleaning a coil stove may not be your favorite chore, but it doesn’t have to be hard. With a few common household items and some patience, you can keep your stove both functional and beautiful.

These tips will help you master:

Cleaning drip pans
Degreasing coils
Removing melted plastic

A little maintenance makes a big difference. A clean stove keeps your kitchen safer, extends appliance life, and helps you avoid costly repairs.

So don’t worry the next time dinner boils over—just remember to unplug, wipe, soak, scrub, and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done.