How Can Rice Water and Cooking Oil Remove Rust from Your Gas Stove?

Over time, gas stoves often accumulate rust due to leftover food, moisture, and grease. The combination of these factors causes oxidation, which leads to rust on the burner grates and grime on the stove surface. Instead of relying on chemical cleaners, you can easily restore your gas stove’s shine using simple, natural ingredients like rice water, cooking oil, or even pork fat.

1. Cleaning with Rice Water

Rice water contains natural starch that helps soften and loosen rust effectively. To make use of it, scoop out the thick layer of rice water after boiling rice — the thicker, the better. When the rice water is still warm, soak a soft cloth in it and apply generously to the rusty areas of the stove or grates.

The heat helps the starch penetrate and soften the rust and grime. After letting it sit for a few minutes, gently scrub the surface using the same rice water. You’ll notice the rust and grease starting to peel off easily. Finally, wipe the stove with a damp cloth dipped in a small amount of dishwashing liquid for a clean, shiny finish.

👉 Tip: Rice water is not only effective for removing rust; it also helps remove oil stains and restore a natural shine to metal surfaces without damaging them.

2. Using Cooking Oil or Animal Fat

Cooking oil and pork fat can also work wonders when it comes to cleaning your gas stove. Simply apply a thin layer of oil over the dirty or rusty spots and let it sit for a few minutes. The oil helps soften stubborn grime and prevents further rusting by creating a thin protective layer on the metal.

Afterward, scrub the area firmly with a sponge or cloth. The rust will lift off more easily. Once done, wipe the surface again with a paper towel or a cloth dipped in hot water to remove excess oil. For a spotless finish, you can also add a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar to the rinse water — this helps cut through any remaining grease and leaves a fresh scent.

3. Cleaning Rust with Vinegar

Vinegar is a powerful natural rust remover thanks to its mild acidity. To use it, apply a small amount of white vinegar directly to the rusty or stained area. Leave it for a few minutes so the acid can break down the rust. Then, gently scrub and wipe with a soft cloth. You’ll be surprised at how shiny your stove looks afterward.

Vinegar also helps eliminate odors and disinfects the stove surface, keeping your kitchen cleaner and healthier overall.

4. Using Lemon Juice

Lemon juice works similarly to vinegar because of its acidic nature. It’s especially effective for removing greasy stains that are mixed with rust. Cut a lemon in half and rub it directly on the stove surface, or squeeze the juice and apply it with a cloth.

Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then scrub gently. The acid breaks down the bonds between the grime and the metal, making the stains come off easily. As a bonus, lemon leaves a fresh, citrusy fragrance in your kitchen.

5. Hot Water for Stubborn Grease

Hot water is another simple but effective cleaning tool. The heat helps loosen grease and grime, making it easier to wipe away. Dip a cloth in hot water and use it to wipe the stove surface, or soak the burner grates in a basin of hot water for about 10–15 minutes before cleaning.

Be sure to wear thick gloves (fabric inside, rubber outside) to protect your hands from the heat. This method is especially useful when dealing with old, dried food stains or thick layers of oil buildup.

6. Baking Soda – The All-Purpose Cleaner

Baking soda is one of the most versatile natural cleaning agents. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a bit of water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste to rusty areas or greasy spots and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.

Then, use a scouring pad or steel wool to scrub the surface. Rinse with clean water afterward. Baking soda not only helps remove rust and tough stains but also deodorizes your stove naturally.

Extra Tips to Prevent Rust

To keep your gas stove clean and prevent rust in the future:

• Wipe away spills and splatters immediately after cooking.

• Avoid leaving water or moisture on the stove surface.

• Once a week, lightly rub the grates with a drop of oil to form a thin protective layer against oxidation.

• Keep your kitchen well-ventilated to minimize humidity.

By using these natural, everyday ingredients, you can clean your gas stove safely and effectively — without harsh chemicals that might harm your skin or damage the metal. Not only does this method save money, but it also helps maintain a cleaner, more eco-friendly kitchen. 🌿✨