How to Clean Behind Stove

Why Cleaning Behind the Stove Matters

The space behind the stove is one of the most neglected areas in the kitchen — and one of the most problematic. Grease, food particles, and dust accumulate in this gap over months and years, creating conditions that attract pests, harbor bacteria, and pose a fire hazard near gas lines and electrical connections. Most people clean behind the stove only when they move — but it should be done at least annually.

What You'll Need

• Krud Kutter Original Cleaner Degreaser — for the wall and floor behind the stove
• Zep Heavy-Duty Citrus Degreaser — for heavy grease on the back of the stove
• Microfiber cleaning cloths
• Rubber cleaning gloves
• Vacuum with crevice tool
• Long flexible duster or microfiber wand
• Flashlight
• Warm water

Safety First

For gas stoves: turn off the gas supply valve before moving the stove. For electric stoves: unplug before moving. Never pull a stove away from the wall while it's connected to gas or electricity.

Step 1: Prepare to Move the Stove

1. Turn off all burners and allow the stove to cool completely.
2. For gas stoves: locate the gas shutoff valve (usually behind or beside the stove) and turn it off.
3. For electric stoves: unplug the power cord.
4. Remove everything from the stovetop to reduce weight.

Step 2: Pull the Stove Out

1. Carefully pull the stove straight out from the wall — most stoves slide on the floor.
2. Pull slowly to avoid damaging the gas line or electrical cord.
3. Pull out only as far as needed to access the back and sides — typically 2–3 feet.
4. Shine a flashlight to assess what you're dealing with.

Step 3: Vacuum First

1. Use a vacuum with a crevice tool to remove loose debris, dust, and food particles from the floor, wall, and back of the stove.
2. Vacuum the coils or gas components on the back of the stove if accessible.
3. This step prevents spreading debris when you start wiping.

Step 4: Clean the Wall Behind the Stove

1. Spray Krud Kutter onto a microfiber cloth.
2. Wipe the wall surface — grease and cooking residue accumulate here from steam and splatter.
3. For heavy grease: use diluted Zep Citrus Degreaser.
4. Rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry.

Step 5: Clean the Floor Behind the Stove

1. Sweep or vacuum the floor area thoroughly.
2. Mop with diluted Krud Kutter.
3. Rinse with clean water and dry.

Step 6: Clean the Back of the Stove

1. Wipe the back panel of the stove with a Krud Kutter-dampened cloth.
2. For heavy grease: use Zep Citrus Degreaser.
3. Avoid spraying directly onto electrical components or gas connections.
4. Wipe clean and dry.

Step 7: Slide the Stove Back

1. Reconnect gas or electricity before sliding back.
2. Slide the stove back into position carefully.
3. Restore gas supply or plug in.
4. Test all burners.

How Often to Clean Behind the Stove

• Annually: Full pull-out and deep clean
• Every 6 months: For heavy cooking households
• Use a long duster monthly to reach as far behind as possible without moving the stove

Final Thoughts

Cleaning behind the stove is a once-a-year task that makes a dramatic difference in kitchen hygiene and pest prevention. Krud Kutter handles the wall and floor; Zep Citrus tackles the back of the stove. Always shut off gas or unplug before moving — safety first, every time.