Just a few decades ago, typical household stoves had coils and came in either gas or electric models.
These days, more and more kitchens use electromagnetic energy to cook food thanks to induction cooktops.
Thanks to the glass surface, induction stove tops are fairly straightforward to maintain. To clean an induction cooktop, you can use baking soda, white vinegar, or anti-grease dish soap.
Whether you’ve got a standalone induction cooker or a built-in stove, here’s how you can keep your induction cooktop clean.
What is an Induction Cooktop?
Induction cooktops use electromagnetic fields to directly heat pots and pans through a layer of tempered ceramic-glass. This keeps the cooktop surface free from any heat.
Some brands call these “induction hobs” because there are no visible coils, unlike in electric stoves.
On the other hand, gas or electric stoves heat the cooktop surface, which transfers the heat to the cookware.
Some brands offer custom colours, but a black induction cooktop is the standard.
Since the induction cooktop remains cool to the touch, you reduce the risk of burns while making cooking faster and more energy-efficient. It also offers precise temperature control, allowing for more consistent cooking results.
However, induction cooktops require compatible cookware. These typically have a magnetic base, such as cast iron or stainless steel.
How Often to Clean an Induction Cooktop
Immediately tackle any spills or stains as soon as any residual heat from cookware has dissipated.
Wipe down your cooktop after every use – or at least every day.
Clean your induction cooktop weekly to prevent a build-up of grease and other food residue.
If you need a hand or want to sit back and relax, go ahead and book a professional home cleaner to tackle your cooktop and the rest of your kitchen!
Before Cleaning an Induction Cooktop
Always shut off your induction cooktop before starting the cleaning process. If you’re able, unplug the cooktop to minimise any risks.
Wait for the cooktop surface to completely cool. While the glass may not be directly heated, there may be some residual heat from the cookware.
What to use when cleaning an induction cooktop
The best cleaning supplies you can use on induction cooktops include:
- White distilled vinegar
- Baking soda
- Warm water
- A razor blade or cooktop scraper
- Microfibre cloths or non-abrasive sponges
Alternatively, use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad, like these Scotch-Brite Cooktop Pads made for glass cooktops. You can also opt for an induction stove top cleaner like the Weiman Complete Cook Top Cleaning Kit.
For scraping off stuck-on food or burnt residue, opt for a razor blade or dedicated cooktop scraper. Always hold it at a 45º angle to ensure you don’t scratch the surface.
When in doubt, check your owner’s manual for what is and isn’t allowed.
What NOT to use to clean an induction cooktop
Avoid using abrasive cleaners like scouring pads or steel wool, which can scratch the glass surface.
Steer clear of harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia, as they can damage the cooktop. This also goes for any cleaner that contains silicone, as it can leave a residue.
Additionally, do not use glass cleaner – these aren’t formulated for use on cooking surfaces.
How to Clean an Induction Cooktop
Cleaning an induction cooktop is a lot like cleaning glass surfaces. Start by wiping the surface in circular motions with a damp microfibre cloth to remove loose debris.
Next, mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle, with a few drops of dish soap.
Spray the cooktop surface with the cleaning solution and let it sit for up to 15 minutes. Then use a soft cloth or non-abrasive scrubbing pad to gently scrub the surface.
For burnt-on residue or stubborn stains, carefully use a razor blade or scraper at a 45º angle.
Finish by wiping the surface with a clean, damp cloth and drying it with a paper towel or dry microfibre cloth.
NOTE: You need to dry your induction cooktop before using it again, as water and other liquids can cause damage when trapped between the cooktop and cookware. They can also leave hard water stains.
Avoid rinsing your induction cooktop by spraying more water or wetting it.
How to Degrease an Induction Cooktop
Grease can spill or splatter on the induction cooktop surface while cooking. A build-up of grease can pose a health and safety hazard.
To clean grease off induction cooktops, mix baking soda with water to make a paste. Apply this paste to the greasy areas of your cooktop and let it sit for a few minutes.
Use a soft sponge to gently scrub the paste into the grease. Then clean up the residue with a damp microfibre cloth (or any clean cloth).
Finally, wipe the surface with a dry cloth to prevent streaks and maintain a shiny finish.
How to Remove Burnt Residue From an Induction Cooktop
If you’ve accidentally burnt food on the cooktop surface or melted a substance (like plastic), don’t panic!
Immediately switch off the cooktop and remove any cookware. While there’s still some residual heat, wear an oven mitt and use a cooktop scraper, razor, or putty knife to scrape off as much residue as you can.
Once the surface has cooled, you can use a baking soda paste. Apply it to the stain and let the solution rest for a few minutes, then use a soft cloth to scrub the residue off.
Alternatively, spray the burnt residue with a mix of equal parts vinegar and water. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to loosen the residue, then scrape it off.
Clean the cooktop thoroughly afterwards.
Tips for Keeping Induction Cooktops Clean
Use a damp towel, non-abrasive sponge, or paper towel dipped in a mixture of dish soap and warm water to clean the cooktop surface after each use.
Tackle food spills or oil splatter immediately to prevent them from becoming stubborn stains.
Avoid dragging pots and pans across the cooktop surface, as these can leave scratches. Lift and set down any cookware carefully.
Make sure your cookware is clean before placing it on your cooktop to minimise the risk of burnt residue.
Lastly, dry your induction cooktop with a microfibre cloth to avoid water spots and streaks.
FAQs About Cleaning an Induction Cooktop
Need more info about cleaning and maintenance to help you keep your induction cooktop in tip-top shape? Here are some common concerns and questions.
What is the best way to clean an induction hob?
The best way to clean an induction hob is a mixture of white vinegar and water or a non-abrasive cleaner. Vinegar is also good for removing hard water stains or white spots on your cooktop.
For tough spots, a baking soda paste works wonders!
Make sure to dry the surface thoroughly to keep it streak-free.
Can you use Windex on an induction cooktop?
Avoid using Windex and other glass cleaners on an induction cooktop.
These cleaning agents can leave streaks or residue, and can potentially damage the surface over time.
Can you use rubbing alcohol on an induction cooktop surface?
Yes, you can use rubbing alcohol on an induction cooktop surface. It’s effective for removing fingerprints and grease.
Apply a little rubbing alcohol to a microfibre cloth or damp sponge and wipe down the surface.
How to clean a burnt induction stove top?
Before trying any cleaning methods, wait for your induction cooktop to cool down. Do not attempt to clean it while it’s hot!
To remove burn marks, make a baking soda paste with water. Then apply it on the burn marks and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the residue. Gently scrub the induction cooktop with a soft cloth.
If your glass cooktop has stubborn burn marks, carefully use a razor blade or scraper at a low angle. Finish by wiping the surface clean with a damp cloth and drying with another clean cloth.
