Induction hobs are great. They heat fast, look amazing, and have a smooth finish that is easy to clean. However, the downside is that this surface can show smudges, streaks, burnt-on marks, and scratches more easily than you’d expect.
The good news is that cleaning an induction hob is actually simple once you know the right method and tools for the job. It’s also important to know what not to do and not to use, as the wrong ways can damage your induction hob.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean your MVP induction hob daily, plus the basics on what you’ll need, what to avoid, and how to prevent damage.
What to Use to Clean Your Induction Hob
Before you start cleaning your induction hob, it helps to grab the right tools. The goal is simple: lift grease and food off the glass without scratching or damaging the surface. Here’s what works best for everyday cleaning and stubborn stains:
- Microfibre cloths
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap
- White Vinegar spray
- Baking soda
- Cooktop cleaners
- Scraper
These are the essentials to keep in mind. Additionally, there are other things to avoid using as they can damage your induction hob’s surface. This includes:
- Steel wool
- Abrasive scouring pads
- Harsh brushes
- Abrasive powder cleaners
- Bleach
- Knives
What to Do Before Cleaning Your Induction Hob
Before you start cleaning, these habits make all the difference to ensure a smooth process. If you follow these every time, you can avoid scratches and keep the glass looking smooth long-term.
Let the Hob Cool Down
Induction hobs can stay hot from leftover heat in the pan and the glass surface. Cleaning a hot surface can make cleaners dry too fast and cause streaks, and increase the chance of smearing burnt residue.
Plus, applying cold substances directly to the hot surface can induce thermal shock, which can damage the induction hob. Lastly, cleaning a hot surface can be hazardous, so it’s better to wait a bit to be safe.
Be Gentle When Cleaning
Always remember to be gentle to avoid any scratches or damage to your induction hob. Pushing harder won’t exactly be an effective cleaning method, especially if there are still some crumbs or grit on the surface.
Prepare Your Materials
According to the list we provided above, prepare the materials you need to clean your induction hob. Keep them near you during the process. Daily cleaning can make use of just the microfibre cloths, warm water, mild dish soap, and vinegar spray. Stubborn stains will need the more extensive tools.
How to Clean Your Induction Hob
Now that you’re ready, it’s time to clean your induction hob. Follow these quick steps for daily cleaning.
-
Remove Crumbs and Food
Physically remove any visible food or gritty bits you may find. It’s best to clean once these are out of the way, as they can damage the surface when you wipe against them. You can do a gentle dry wipe to remove any small crumbs or seasonings on the cooktop. -
Wipe with Warm Water and Soap
Mix a small amount of mild dish soap into warm water. Use a microfibre cloth and place it in the bowl. Squeeze out the excess water, then wipe the surface. Focus on cooking zones, the area around the markers, and splatter spots near the back and sides. -
Apply Baking Soda and Vinegar Spray
If there are any stubborn streaks, then use baking soda. Sprinkle this over the cool hob and spread it all around. Next, use the white vinegar spray and apply it all over the surface. You should let this mixture settle for about 10 to 30 minutes. If you have some cooktop cleaners, you can also use them. -
Scrap as Needed
For burnt-on spots, you can use a hob scraper, but do it gently. Since the blade is sharp, it’s best to tilt the blade at an angle of about 30 to 45 degrees. -
Wipe Away
Take a second clean cloth, dampen it with plain water, and wipe again to remove leftover soap or baking powder and vinegar mixture. This will make sure that your induction hob won’t have that ugly, smeary look. -
Dry Everything Up
The final step is to use another microfibre cloth to wipe and dry every single surface of the induction hob.
How to Prevent Scratches on Your Induction Hob?
Clean Your Hob Regularly
Always keep your induction hob clean and free from crumbs, seasonings, and gritty bits to prevent scratches. When spills and grease sit too long, they can harden, which will make you scrub harder than you should.
Check Cookware
Take a second to check your cookware’s bottom for any rough patches, crumbs, grease, or burnt-on residue. Always make sure these are free from debris and that they match the size of the induction zone.
Don’t Drag Your Pans and Pots
Avoid sliding your cookware across the hob. Even if the pan feels smooth, the combination of the weight and movement can cause fine scratches over time. Instead, lift them up and place them down gently.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your induction hob is a simple task when you know what to do. Just gather the right materials, remove any bits and crumbs, and wipe the area with warm, soapy water, baking soda, or a vinegar spray, depending on its condition.
Follow our guide, and you can keep your induction hob looking good as new.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is so good about induction hobs?
They’re incredibly fast, energy-efficient, and safer than gas or traditional electric cooktops. Plus, they are easy to clean, but the right tools must be used.
What cannot be cooked on induction?
You cannot use non-magnetic cookware, including that made of glass, ceramic, aluminum, copper, or non-magnetic stainless steel.
What happens if you put a normal pan on induction?
If you put a normal pan on an induction cooktop, it won’t heat up because the magnetic field cannot generate current. They need cookware with ferromagnetic properties to function.
What are the most common induction hob mistakes?
Common ones include using the wrong cookware, sliding the pans or pots around the surface, not matching pans with the induction zones, and improper cleaning.
What is the best cookware for induction?
The best options are stainless steel with a magnetic base, cast iron, and carbon steel.
