Induction cooktops are easier to clean and maintain than electric or gas-based stoves. One reason is that most spillovers won’t harden onto the surface since the area around the cooking vessel stays fairly cool.
When cleaning an induction cooktop, it is important to use the appropriate materials to avoid damaging your unit. The owner’s manual that came with your cooktop usually includes a list of recommend cleaners. Be sure to clean your unit prior to using it the first time.
Things to Know About Induction Cooktops
This article outlines everything you need to know about cleaning an induction stove. However, if you are still on the fence about whether to purchase one, here is a short list of the benefits and drawbacks of induction cooking.
Benefits
- Portable units are available as well as full size stoves
- Adjustable power and temperature controls
- Fast cooking times
- Easy to clean
- Safety features
- Efficient
- Easy to clean
Drawbacks
- Noise emitted from fan and cookware
- Need dedicated outlet
- Induction compatible cookware is required
What Can I Use to Clean My Induction Cooktop?
Cloth, soft (not scrub) sponge or paper towelsCleaners made specifically for glass/ceramic cooktopsWhite vinegarScraper designed to be used on glass and ceramic surfacesDo Not Use These Things to Clean Your Induction Cooktop
Harsh or flammable chemicalsPowdery cleanersChlorine based bleaching agents or ammoniaAbrasive or metal scouring pads or stiff brushesKnife or sharp toolsRoutine Cleaning Tips
After using your cooktop, unplug it and wait for the unit to cool downWipe off any cooking spills with a moist paper towel, cloth or soft spongeSome people use a cooktop cleaner after each use, others do not. If you do, shake the container, then place a small drop on a paper towel or clean soft cloth and rub the surface until it is clean. Then use a soft moist cloth to remove the cleaner residue.Use white vinegar to wipe away any hard water spots on the surfaceIf white vinegar is used, use a clean, wet paper towel to remove the vinegar residueWipe the cooktop dry with a clean cloth or paper towelDon’t leave any marks on the surface as that can affect the performance of the cooktopHeavy Cleaning Tips
If there is crusted residue, try cleaning it with a glass-ceramic cooktop cleaner first. Shake the container, then place a small drop on a paper towel or clean soft cloth and rub the surface until it is clean. Then use a soft moist cloth to remove the cleaner residue.If there is still hard food residue on the surface, use a cooktop scraper to remove it. Do not use a lot of pressure. Gently, at a 45º angle, scrape the residue from the glass/ceramic surface. The last thing you want to do is to scratch the induction cooker.Wipe the crumbs off with a wet paper towelPour a small amount of white vinegar on a dry cloth and clean off any hard water spotsClean the surface with a cooktop cleaner on a soft cloth or paper towelDry with a clean cloth or paper towelWhile cleaning, make sure water does not get inside the cooktop as it has electrical components that can be damaged. After the cleaning is completed, wait for it to dry completely before using it again.Cleaning Stainless Steel Parts of Induction Cooktop
It is important to rub the cloth in the direction of the grain when cleaning stainless steel. Applying the right kind of cleaning agents to the housing of your unit will keep it shiny for a long time.
Use These Materials
Filtered water (if your tap water is hard)Microfiber clothMixture of water and dishwashing detergentWhite vinegarOlive oil or mineral oilDon’t Use These Materials
Abrasive pads or spongesChlorine based cleanerAnything with chloride in itSteps to Cleaning Stainless Steel
Clean the areas with vinegar or soap and waterWipe residue with a damp (water) clothWipe dry with a clothPut a very small amount of oil (mineral or olive) on a soft cloth and polishHints to Save Time Cleaning Your Cooktop
Do not overload the vessel so that it spills when it gets heatedAlways leave some extra space for the water to boil inside the vesselWipe the bottom of the cookware before you place it on the cooktop
