• Put a kettle of water on the stove and heat it up to boiling.
• Turn off the heat and let it sit for a minute.
• Now pour the water out slowly onto the top of the stove so every area is covered in at least a bit of water.
• Let it sit for another minute.
• Take a sponge and start wiping.

This hot water should break up any crusty spots, making them easier to remove with the sponge. Yes, it really that simple.

The first time you use this approach, you may find the stove top is so greasy that the hot water doesn't do the job. No problem. After you bring the kettle to a boil, let it sit for a minute and then add a bit of dish washing soap. Give the kettle a swirl, then pour the mixture out onto the stove top. Give it a minute to soak and sponge up the results. The soap should break up the tough grease, making it easier to wipe it away with your sponge.

What about creases on your stove top where two surfaces meet? Food, grease, and other unmentionables seem to congregate in these areas and a sponge isn't particularly effective at getting the gunk out.

What incredibly expensive tool will you need to get the crease clean?

Use the mighty toothpick.

Here's the trick. Take your toothpick and simply run the point from one end of the crease to the other. The gunk in the crease should pop out as the toothpick passes. Use a paper towel to wipe it up and you are good to go.

The key to keeping a stove top clean is to follow this simple process regularly. Do it once a week and you should be able to get it completed in 10 minutes. Not bad, eh?

If you are in North Hampton and would rather have a professional do the work for you, The Maids of New Hampshire make hiring a maid service simple.