How to Clean and Maintain Your Cooktop

A well-maintained cooktop not only enhances the beauty of your kitchen but also ensures better cooking performance and longevity for your appliance. Whether you're a passionate home chef or a busy parent preparing daily meals, knowing how to properly clean and maintain your cooktop is essential. 

Here, we'll walk you through easy-to-follow tips for cleaning various types of cooktops, including glass, gas, induction, and electric coil.

 

 

How to Clean a Glass Cooktop

Glass cooktops are sleek, modern, and elegant. However, spills and splatters can quickly become stubborn stains if not cleaned properly. Here’s our advice on how to easily clean your glass cooktop. We recommend following these steps after each use.

What You'll Need

• A soft cloth or sponge

• Glass cooktop cleaner

• Baking soda

• White vinegar

• Plastic scraper

Steps to Clean a Glass Cooktop

1. Allow the Cooktop to Cool Completely: Cleaning a hot surface is unsafe and less effective.

2. Apply Cleaner: Spread a small amount of specialized glass cooktop cleaner over the surface.

3. Scrub Gently: Use a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge to gently scrub away residue.

4. Remove Tough Stains: For stubborn spots, apply a paste of baking soda and water, letting it sit for 10-15 minutes, then gently scrape with a plastic scraper.

5. Finish with Vinegar: Wipe down with white vinegar to eliminate any remaining residue and give a streak-free shine.

 

 

Cleaning Your Gas Cooktop

Gas cooktops offer excellent cooking control, but burners and grates can accumulate grime over time. We recommend wiping down your stovetop after each use and following these steps for a more thorough cleaning weekly or bi-weekly, depending on your use.

What You'll Need

• Dish soap

• Warm water

• Gas cooktop cleaner or degreaser

• Soft-bristle brush

• Microfiber cloth

Steps to Clean Stove Burners

1. Remove Grates and Burners: Allow them to cool, then remove and soak in warm, soapy water for 15-30 minutes.

2. Scrub the Grates: Use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to clean the grates thoroughly.

3. Clean the Burner Caps: Apply gas cooktop cleaner or degreaser and gently scrub away any debris.

4. Wipe the Cooktop Surface: Using a microfiber cloth and mild cleaner, clean the cooktop area, paying attention to burner heads and knobs.

5. Dry Completely: Ensure all parts are dry before reassembling.

 

 

Maintaining an Induction Cooktop

Induction cooktops heat quickly and evenly, and they're easy to maintain when cleaned regularly with the right products. The best cleaner for an induction cooktop is baking soda and white vinegar or dish soap. We recommend following the steps below weekly and cleaning up your cooktop after each use.

What You'll Need

• Baking soda

• White vinegar

• Mild dish soap

• Microfiber cloth

Steps for Cleaning

1. Turn Off and Cool Down: Ensure the cooktop is off and cool to touch.

2. Apply Cleaning Mixture: Sprinkle baking soda onto the cooktop, then spray lightly with white vinegar, creating a gentle fizzing action.

3. Scrub Gently: Using a microfiber cloth dampened with mild dish soap and warm water, gently scrub in circular motions to lift residue.

4. Rinse and Dry: Wipe the surface clean with a damp microfiber cloth, then dry with a clean, dry cloth for a polished finish.

How to Clean an Electric Coil Stovetop

Electric coil stoves are durable and simple, but coils and drip pans need periodic cleaning. Weekly cleaning of coils and drip pans is recommended to maintain performance and cleanliness.

What You'll Need

• Mild dish soap

• Baking soda

• Soft cloth or sponge

• Warm water

Steps to Clean An Electric Coil Stove

1. Disconnect and Cool: Unplug the coils and allow them to cool completely.

2. Remove Coils and Drip Pans: Lift out coils and drip pans.

3. Clean Coils: Wipe the coils gently with a damp cloth. Avoid submerging coils in water.

4. Clean Drip Pans: Soak in warm, soapy water or apply a baking soda paste for stubborn stains. Scrub gently until clean.

5. Dry Thoroughly: Ensure coils and pans are fully dry before reassembling.

 

 

General Cooktop Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance helps prevent buildup, prolong appliance life, and keeps your kitchen looking great. Following these simple steps, your cooktop can remain pristine and functional for years.

• Clean Spills Immediately: Prevent staining and difficulty in cleaning later.

• Use Correct Cleaning Products: Choose appropriate cleaners to prevent damage.

• Routine Cleaning: Weekly deep cleans prevent buildup and maintain performance.

• Inspect Regularly: Check burners, coils, and other components regularly for signs of damage or wear.

Ready to Upgrade or Need More Advice?

If your cooktop has seen better days or you're simply ready for an upgrade, shop our wide selection of cooktops and other kitchen appliances, including ranges, wall ovens, and refrigerators. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you find the perfect match for your kitchen or offer personalized advice on maintenance and care.

Visit one of our appliance store locations in Portland, OR, or contact us today!

Related readings from our blog:

• Whirlpool Self-Cleaning Oven: Effortless Cleanup

• How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher: Eliminating Residue and Odors

• Induction vs Electric vs Gas: Which Cooktop Should I Buy?

FAQs About Cleaning Cooktops

1. Can I use vinegar to clean all types of cooktops?

Yes, vinegar is generally safe and effective for removing residue and providing shine on most cooktops.

2. Can electric stove coils get wet during cleaning?

Avoid submerging coils in water; instead, gently wipe them with a damp cloth.

3. What should I avoid using on my induction cooktop?

Avoid using abrasive sponges, harsh chemical cleaners, and steel wool pads.

4. Is it necessary to dry all cooktop parts thoroughly after cleaning?

Yes, drying prevents rust and ensures proper functionality, especially for gas burners and electric coils.