How to Clean Stains on Electric Cooktops

How to Clean Buildup and Stains on Electric Burners

Sure, everyday wiping of the entire stove helps, but it's usually not enough to prevent mild buildup over time. For those times you need to extra cleaning power on the burner coils themselves, use a cooktop-safe cream cleaner and some elbow grease:

1. Wait for the Cooktop to Cool: Always start with a completely cool surface to avoid burns and ensure proper application.
2. Apply Cream Cleaner: Use a small amount of cooktop-specific cream cleaner on any stained areas. Spread it gently with a soft sponge or cloth to avoid scratches.
3. Let it Sit for a Few Minutes: Give the cleaning solution a few minutes to loosen stubborn stains, making them easier to remove.
4. Buff with a Soft Cloth: Use a soft clean microfiber cloth to gently buff the cleaner away, removing stains without leaving scratches.
5. Rinse and Polish: Finally, wipe the cooktop with a damp cloth to remove any leftover cleaner and dry with a soft cloth for a polished, streak-free finish.

As alternatives to a cream cleaner, we also like:

• Homemade baking soda paste: a natural cleaning mixture made of white vinegar and baking soda and a bit of elbow grease is a great cleaning approach. If you have either/or, you could make a paste of warm water and baking soda, or dish soap and white vinegar.
• A simple razor blade: you can usually shave off the toughest baked-on crud with a razor blade if you get the right angle and feel for it. Maybe avoid a razor on glass.
• Soapy water: sometimes soapy water or hot water and a microfiber cloth on the entire surface works wonders. (Never use a paper towel, it can leave scratches.)

How often should I give my cooktop a deep cleaning?

For most electric cooktops, a deep cleaning process every one to two weeks should be sufficient. However, if you cook frequently, have baked-on crud, caked-on grease, or use ingredients that tend to splatter or spill, you may need to clean more often. Regular, light cleaning and even daily cleaning of your stove surface or stove coils will make deep cleaning easier and faster.

Quick Tips for a Stain-Free Electric Cooktop

To keep your clean stove looking fresh and clean, consider the following additional tips:

• Avoid Plastic Utensils: Plastic can melt if it touches a hot burner, and when it does, it'll leave stubborn burn marks. Stick with metal or heat-resistant utensils instead.
• Inspect Cookware for Warping: Warped pots and pans don’t sit flat on the cooktop, especially on a glass stovetop, leading to uneven heating and spills. Make sure cookware bottoms are flat and stable.
• Remove Salt Immediately: Salt can act as an abrasive cleaner and may leave micro-scratches on ceramic stovetops or glass cooktops. If you spill salt, wipe it away with a dry towel as soon as possible to avoid the risk of scratches damaging your pristine stove.