How to Clean the Gap Between Your Stove and Counter

Stovetop with a kettle heating on a burner a measuring cup on a countertop nearby and kitchen utensils in a container — Credit:
Molly Aaker / Getty Images

That narrow, hard-to-reach space between the stove and the counter can become a catch-all for drips and crumbs. Even the deepest of kitchen cleans may overlook this exasperating crack: Nothing seems to reach deep enough to clean the inside of that space. In fact, it might only serve to push the debris further inside.

“A clean kitchen depends on addressing hidden spots like the stove gap, which has a bigger impact than most realize,” says Reshmina Ahmad, owner of Cura Maids. Here's how cleaning professionals, like Ahmad, get to the crumbs, grease, and sticky messes between the stove and countertop for a truly spotless kitchen

Reshmina Ahmad, owner at Cura Maids
Jhon LeBaron, co-owner at Primavera Cleaning Service

Method One: Vacuuming

To clear this area of crumbs, reach for a handheld vacuum with a narrow attachment. (If you wish to proceed to methods two or three, vacuuming loose crumbs first is typically recommended.)

Use the narrow attachment of a handheld vacuum to suction between the countertop and the stove, vacuuming for two to four minutes.
Follow with a small gap brush, flat-headed duster, or a dry flat-head mop to clear any clogged crumbs.
Vacuum with your narrow attachment once more to suck up remaining debris.

Method Two: Flat-Head Mop

According to Jhon LeBaron, co-owner of Primavera Cleaning Service, using a flat microfiber mop (such as Swiffer or OXO Good Grips models) is an easy way to clean this slim gap with tools you likely already have on hand.

Use a clean mop and ensure that the oven is completely cool.
Wet the mop head (or a disposable/removable microfiber mopping pad) thoroughly with hot water and then wring it out.
Slip the flat side of the mop into the gap between the counter and stove, cleaning one side.
Flip the mop head over to wipe down the opposite side.
Continue until the mop comes out clean, rinsing and wringing the mop or changing the microfiber pad as needed.
Allow to air dry before using the oven.

For this method, you can also use a Cuban mop. These feature long wooden handles with a smaller “T” of wood at the bottom. According to LeBaron, this design, coupled with a cleaning cloth, allows you to clean both sides of the gap at once.

For extra-grimy gaps, lightly spray the area with an all-purpose cleaner or a mixture of white vinegar and water, says Ahmad. Let sit for several minutes, then rinse thoroughly by wiping with a dampened flat-head mop.

Method Three: Baking Soda Paste

For stubborn build-up, Ahmad recommends a pantry staple: baking soda. “Baking soda’s great because it cuts through grease without scratching your countertop, which is especially important if you have stone or stainless,” she says.

Mix a thick paste of baking soda and water.
Dip large cotton balls or cotton makeup pads into the paste.
Wrap the saturated cotton around the end of a slim wand or wooden pole. (Alternatively, you can also use a flat-head mop with a disposable microfiber cloth.)
Work the paste along the top and sides of the gap.
Rinse with clean, dampened cotton pads, cloths, or a flat-head mop.

How to Prevent Future Messes Between Your Stove and Counter

Don't want to spend tons of time cleaning this narrow gap in the future? There are a few preventative (and pro-tested) measures you can take to ease the need for frequent deep cleans.

Silicone Gap Covers: According to Ahmad, silicone gap covers are a game-changer. “They’re heat-resistant, food-grade, and they literally just sit there catching crumbs before they disappear into the void,” she explains. Simply pull out for cleaning and then replace.
Stove Strips: Stove strips are similar to silicone gap covers, but they are made specifically for the stove-counter meeting spot and can be crafted from various colors and materials. “Think of them like the transition strip on your floor where two types of floor connect, like wood and tile,” explains LeBaron. “These strips will fill the gap, and some even have an adhesive to form a tight seal on both sides.”
Perform Weekly Maintenance: Weekly maintenance makes all the difference, says Ahmad. Adding this spot to your weekly vacuuming checklist or giving it a regular swipe with a flat-headed mop will keep messes from accumulating.
Be Mindful During Food Prep: “Sounds obvious, but try not to chop or move stuff around [or] directly over that gap,” advises Ahmad. “Just shift your cutting board or bowls a little further onto the counter.” Being intentional—and a subtle shift of your cutting board—can make all the difference.