I wish more people knew about the perks of induction cooking. But many don’t. That is why less than 5% of US homes have induction cooktops and ranges. If you are one of those people who are still using conventional methods like gas stoves, I don’t know what you’re waiting for. Make the switch today! You’ll cut energy consumption in your home and enjoy lower utility bills.
And if you’re one of those savvy homeowners who’ve already switched to induction cooking, answer this question. How clean is your appliance? If it’s not in pristine condition, you’re doing something wrong. Maybe you aren’t cleaning it frequently. Or, you’re using the wrong cleaning products.
Cleaning an induction hob isn’t as simple as dipping a rag in soapy water and wiping it away. It demands the right tools. Below, I have listed recommended items for cleaning an induction hob without damaging the beautiful glass surface or applying too much elbow grease. Dig in.
Here’s a quick glimpse of what we are going to cover:
How We Tested
Through baked-on messes and staining trials, we found induction requires specific cleaning approaches compared to traditional electric or gas stove top. Scrubbing effort and residue risks separated quality solutions from damaging pretenders.
- We baked common food soils like eggs, grains, and cheese onto cool units
- We gently scrubbed soils after the maximum prescribed dwell times
- Rinsed cooktops thoroughly, checking for detergent residue
Best Cleaner for Induction Cooktop
Below are 6 of the best cleaners for induction cleaners. I’ve tried all these products and highly recommend them to people who want to keep their cookers pristine without worrying about scratching their appliances.
1. Affresh Cooktop Cleaning Kit
My top pick is the Affresh Cooktop Cleaning Kit. I love this product because it’s designed to deal with tough, cooked-on stains and grime without marring a cooktop’s glass or ceramic surface. Moreover, the kit isn’t a single item. On the contrary, it’s a package that contains 1 scraper, 5 pads, and a 5 oz cleaner.
The scraper in the kit is for removing any hardened residue stuck on your cooktop. With it, you don’t have to use a fork or spoon to scrape off burnt-on residue, which can permanently damage your induction cooktop. The non-abrasive pads and cleaner solution can also help you loosen residue and wipe grime off your induction hob.
Pros – What I Like
- The kit contains multiple tools.
- It’s safe for both glass and ceramic cooktops.
- If used as directed, this cooktop cleaner leaves a streak-free, polished shine.
- It’s non-abrasive, meaning it doesn’t leave scratches on cooktop surfaces.
- Reputable brands like KitchenAid and Whirlpool recommend the product.
Cons – What I Don’t Like
- The items run out quickly.
- Some users have reported unstable blades in the scraper.
2. Scotch-Brite Cooktop Pad
If you are searching for a good cleaning product for your glass cooktop, look no further than the Scotch-Brite Cooktop Pad. This cooktop cleaner has made it to our list for one primary reason: it boasts a breakthrough design specially tailored for glass stovetops. The product is powered by an advanced micro-texture scrubbing surface technology that makes scratch-free cleaning 100% possible.
I also recommend this product to induction cooktop owners since it’s chemical-free. That means you don’t have to use it with a cleaning solution; water alone can work just fine. And that is exceptional, especially when you consider that some cleaning products can irritate or burn the skin, eyes, airways, etc.
Pros – What I Like
- This pad is designed for scratch-free cleaning, which is crucial in stovetops made of glass.
- It can work wonders with water only.
- It’s easy to grip and use.
- The pads are dishwasher safe.
Cons – What I Don’t Like
- It’s only safe for glass cooktops.
- Some users have reported that the pads don’t effectively eradicate grease or baked-on spills without a cleaning agent.
- The package contains 2 cleaning pads only.
3. Glisten GC0608T Cooktop & Kitchen Cleaning
I purchased the Glisten cooktop and kitchen cleaning pads a few weeks ago and was impressed for several reasons. First, my package came with 8 large cleaning pads, and each pad was perforated. So I could separate every pad into two smaller items when dealing with smaller messes. Impressive, right? There’s more.
Every Glisten cooktop pad has two different sides. The first one has a non-abrasive surface with a powerful cleaner. It’s primarily designed to slice through baked-on food and stubborn grease stains. The other has a soft cloth, ideal for polishing your stovetop and leaving a shiny, streak-free appeal.
Pros – What I Like
- Glisten cleaning pads can work wonders on different items, from electric cooktops and gas ranges to microwaves, sinks, faucets, and ovens.
- It’s a package with 8 pads that can be split into 16 smaller pads
- The pads are non-abrasive and streak-free.
- Each pad has one side for polishing and another for scrubbing different surfaces.
Cons – What I Don’t Like
- You can only use the Glisten pads once or twice.
4. Razor Blade Scraper Tool
Since I switched to induction cooking, I’ve owned more than a few ceramic and glass induction cooktops. And there’s one thing I’ve noticed regarding these appliances. Since they have smooth surfaces, they are highly susceptible to burnt-on food residue. To make matters worse, the stovetops are fragile and scratch easily, so you can’t use items like a spoon or steel wool to remove the residue.
If, like me, you have a cooktop often plagued by burnt-off residue, get the Razor Blade Scraper Tool. This item removes anything stuck on a glass or ceramic stovetop, from stubborn residue to sticky labels. The scraper is designed to work seamlessly without scratching any surfaces. You can also use it to scrape off sealant, calk, window paint, decals, wallpaper, coloring film residue, etc.
Pros – What I Like
- The Razor blade scrape tool is multi-purpose and can handle diverse scraping tasks in the kitchen, bathroom, and other areas.
- It comes with 5 spare replacement blades.
- The blades on the tool are incredibly sharp and scrape off stubborn residue and other items effortlessly.
- It’s built to last long, with a strong, sturdy handle.
- Despite having sharp blades, if used as recommended, the tool doesn’t scratch glass or ceramic stovetops.
Cons – What I Don’t Like
- Some users complain about the razor sliding out constantly.
- The razor blades often break prematurely.
5. Weiman Cook Top Scrubbing Pads
Tough stains can be challenging to get rid of from a cooktop. But, with Weiman Cook Top Scrubbing Pads, you won’t have to worry about this problem. These cleaning items are made of stainless steel/plastic and are designed to remove stubborn stains from your induction stovetops, stone kitchen countertops, and other surfaces.
I’ve used these pads several times and love how they can easily remove burnt-on food and restore a cooktop’s original luster and beauty. Additionally, I was impressed by their ability to deal with food splatters, watermarks, and oil residues without leaving streaks or scratching my stovetop’s delicate glass top.
Pros – What I Like
- These scrubbing pads can remove tough stains and gunk without scratching delicate stovetop surfaces.
- They are safe to use on both ceramic and glass induction cooktops.
- They are compatible with most major cooktop brands, including Thermador, Whirlpool, GE, and Frigidaire.
- The pads leave a streak-free shine.
Cons – What I Don’t Like
- If you apply extra force, these scrubbers can damage your stovetop.
- Compared to other products, these scrubbing pads are quite pricey.
6. Weiman Glass Cooktop Heavy Duty Cleaner & Polish
Most glass cooktops are easy on the eye. Unfortunately, these items don’t retain their appeal indefinitely. With constant use, they lose their pristine appearance and become bland. That is more so when users let grease marks, water stains, and dried food globs accumulate on them. If you want your appliance to retain its beauty longer, clean it with the Weiman Glass Cooktop Heavy Duty Cleaner & Polish.
As the name suggests, this product is formulated to help you clean and polish your cooktop, leaving it pristine and sparkling. It’s made from a Biodegradable Formula that enables it to eradicate burned-on foods, grime, and grease with amazing ease.
Pros – What I Like
- The product cleans away stubborn stains and leaves appliances with a shiny luster.
- You can use it on most ceramic and glass cooktops from popular brands like Frigidaire and Whirlpool.
- It’s by Weiman, one of the most trusted brands today.
Cons – What I Don’t Like
- Most users say the product is more effective in polishing cooktops than cleaning them.
Other Top Induction Hob Cleaners – Honorable Mentions
I did find more induction range cleaners that I believe you might love. They didn’t make it in our review but are certainly worth your consideration. Check them out
Tips for Cleaning Your Induction Cooktop
Cleaning an induction cooktop isn’t as easy as it sounds. Remember, most of these appliances have delicate surfaces that scratch and damage easily. Plus, they are susceptible to stubborn stains and burnt-on residue. But that doesn’t mean you should write off cleaning your appliance. You can easily clean it and keep it in pristine condition if you do the following:
1. Exercise Extra Caution
Most induction cookers have glass tops. And although these appliances look chic and elegant, they scratch and damage easily. Diverse culprits can scratch a glass cooktop, from coarse particles like salt trapped between the heating surface and cookware to abrasive cleaning methods.
That said, while cleaning an induction cooktop, you must be careful. Don’t be reckless or use excessive force. Also, avoid using abrasive pads, harsh cleaning solutions, and, most importantly, steel wool.
2. Wipe Spills Immediately
Experts recommend cleaning your induction cooktop a few minutes after cooking with it. Suppose you make that a habit. Your appliance will remain shiny and smooth for longer. However, some spills demand immediate attention, so you can’t wait until you’re done preparing your meal to deal with them.
If anything laden with sugar spills on your stovetop, wipe it right away. That includes everyday syrup, melted marshmallows, and caramel sauce. I recommend you give such spills immediate attention because sugary substances will likely get stuck on your cooktop, causing permanent stains.
3. Use the right tools to scrape dried-on foods
There are several items you should never use to scrape off food from your cooktop, no matter how effective they might seem. These include common metallic utensils like knives, forks, and spoons. The same applies to razor blades. But to avoid scratching your cooktop, use recommended scrapers to remove dried-on gunk.
What Types of Cleaners Can Damage an Induction Cooktop?
Avoid using the following cleaners on an induction cooktop’s surface:
- Abrasive Cleaners Like Comet or Ajax – These types of cleansers contain gritty particles and chemicals that are designed to scour surfaces. Using them on the delicate glass surface of an induction cooktop can cause fine scratches and abrasions to build up over time. Even minor scratches in the cooktop glass can eventually lead to an etched, foggy appearance.
- Scouring Pads or Scrub Sponges – Scouring pads, whether made of plastic, nylon, or metal, can inflict surface scratches on induction cooktops. Scrub sponges may seem soft and harmless, but pressing down too hard while scrubbing can damage the smooth glass. Avoid sponges with any rough textures.
- Steel Wool Pads – The tiny metal strands and barbs on steel wool pads pose a huge risk of scratching on an induction cooktop. Just one swipe can leave behind unsightly marks and damage. Steel wool is designed to scrub caked-on grime off durable pots and pans, not fragile glass cooktops.
- Sandpaper – While it may seem obvious, it’s worth noting that using any sandpaper or emery boards on an induction cooktop is prohibited. Even the finest grit sandpaper will ruin the pristine glass surface, causing extensive etching and damage.
- Powder Cleansers With Baking Soda or Bleach – Baking soda and bleach are too abrasive and caustic for an induction cooktop. They can pit and corrode the glass over time. The grittiness in baking soda-based cleaners poses scratch risks.
- Oven Degreasers – Caustic oven cleaners are far too harsh for cooktops. The lye and heat-activated chemicals that cut through baked-on oven grease will also eat through induction cooktop finishes. Only use cleaners formulated for cooktops.
- Vinegar or Lemon Juice – While they may seem gentle, vinegar and citrus juices are acidic. Prolonged exposure can dull and etch the glass surface of induction cooktops. They should be avoided or used very briefly and thoroughly rinsed.
What is the Proper Method to Clean an Induction Cooktop?
W without proper care, induction cooktops are prone to scratches, staining, and gradual dulling over time. Follow this step-by-step cleaning method to keep your induction cooktop looking like new.
1. Allow the Induction Cooktop to Fully Cool
The first rule of cleaning induction cooktops is to never clean them while still hot. The glass surface can reach extremely high temperatures. Always allow your induction cooktop to cool completely after use before wiping it down. This ensures no burns or cracks from thermal shock.
2. Apply a Small Amount of Induction Cooktop Cleaner Directly to the Cooktop Surface
Next, you’ll need to use a cleaner formulated specifically for ceramic glass induction cooktops. Popular brand options include Weiman, Cerama Bryte, Kittrich, and Electrolux. Check the product label before using it to confirm it’s induction-safe. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, steel wool, or anything that could scratch the delicate glass surface.
The cleaner will help lift and dissolve any dried-on food residues or grease. Work in smooth, light motions. Avoid scrubbing vigorously, as this can potentially scratch the glass over time.
3. Dry Completely With a Soft Lint-free Cloth
Once you’ve cleaned the entire surface, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove all cleaner residue. Wipe away any remaining moisture with a soft, lint-free cloth or paper towel. Water spots and streaks can build up if any moisture is left behind.
After the cooktop is fully dry, reinstall any grates, trivets, burner heads, etc. you removed earlier. Give them a good cleaning too. An induction cooktop maintenance regimen also includes periodic inspections for any remaining grease or debris you may have missed. Spot clean as needed.
Key Takeaways
I clean my induction cooktop every time I use it. I picked this tip from experts, and it has helped me keep my appliances in tip-top condition for years. You should do the same. Use the products recommended here, including scrubbing pads, scrapers, and cleaning solutions, for the best results.
Don’t forget to be extra cautious with your stovetop. Remember that it’s delicate and susceptible to damage. Most importantly, induction stovetops can’t be repaired. They can only be replaced, which costs a fortune.
Common Questions
Why do induction cooktops need special cleaners?
The surface of an induction cooktop is made of ceramic glass. Using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads can scratch the delicate surface. Induction cooktop cleaners are formulated to be non-abrasive to safeguard the cooktop’s surface. They are designed to dissolve and loosen dried-on spills and food residue without scratching.
How often should I clean my induction cooktop?
It’s best to clean your induction cooktop after each use to prevent food residue and grease from baking on. Allow the cooktop to fully cool first before cleaning. Quick wipe-downs with a soft damp cloth after cooking can also help maintain the surface. Deep clean the entire cooktop at least once a week using an induction-safe cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge.
