Hobs can quickly gather dirt and grime – whether it’s water boiling over, food spills, or general grease and dust. For many of us, keeping on top of our hob cleaning can appear more trouble than it’s worth, and we often hire a professional cleaning service for a deep clean every few months.

But hob cleaning and maintenance isn’t as daunting as it seems, and with the right tools and technique, cleaning a hob can be an effortless task – no matter the hob type.

In this guide, we look at the different methods for cleaning both glass and induction hobs to maintain a hygienic and spotless cooking surface which will improve the efficiency and lifespan of your appliance.

 

How to Clean Your Induction or Ceramic Hob without Scratching it

While hobs may appear simple to clean, wiping down the surface alone won’t remove all stains and baked-in grime.

For a deeper clean, it’s important to tackle the task with the right tools and understand how to remove specific types of stains and scratches.

The technique may differ slightly between ceramic and induction hobs, and each should be treated to complement the material and surface texture.

Want to know more about the differences between induction and ceramic hobs? Check out our guide to the different types of hobs for a helpful breakdown!

Below are a few step-by-step guides on various aspects of  induction and ceramic hob cleaning:

 

Equipment Needed to Clean a Hob

Before we explore the cleaning process, assembling the right cleaning arsenal is crucial. Your toolkit should include:

• Non-Abrasive Sponge or Cloth: Use a soft sponge or cloth to clean the hob surface without scratching it.
• Mild Dish Soap: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water for general cleaning.
• Baking Soda: Baking soda can be used to create a paste for tackling stubborn stains or burnt-on residue.
• Plastic Scraper or Spatula: A plastic scraper or spatula can be useful for gently removing any hardened debris from the hob surface.
• Soft Brush: A soft-bristled brush can help clean hard-to-reach areas or crevices on the hob.
• Towels or Cloth: For wiping down the hob surface and drying.
• Gloves: Consider wearing rubber gloves to protect your hands from any chemicals during the cleaning process.
• Basin or Sink: This may be used to clean any individual removable components of a hob (which may be more common when cleaning a gas hob).

 

When cleaning Your Induction or Ceramic Hob Plates and Rings

Here, we explain the step-by-step process for cleaning hob surfaces:

 

 

• Make sure the hob is switched off and cool.
• Remove any food debris or loose dirt with a soft brush or cloth.

 

• Create a cleaning solution from warm water and a mild detergent.
• Dampen a cloth or sponge in the solution and gently scrub the hob plates.
• For stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it, and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
• Rinse the hob plates with clean water and wipe them dry with a soft cloth.
• Polish the plates with a dedicated hob cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water for added shine.

 

• Plug in and switch on the hob only when the plates are completely dry.

 

How To Remove Scratches From Your Ceramic Hob

Scratches can be trickier to remove from hob surfaces – but it is possible to repair or reduce the appearance of minor scratches by following these steps:

 

• Make sure the hob is switched off and cool.
• Clean the hob surface thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

 

• Apply a small amount of ceramic hob cleaner or a non-abrasive ceramic cooktop cleaner to the scratched area.
• Gently rub the cleaner into the scratches using a soft cloth or sponge. Follow the product instructions for application.
• Continue rubbing in a circular motion until the scratches start to fade.
• Rinse the hob surface with clean water to remove any residue from the cleaner.
• Dry the hob surface with a soft cloth.

 

• Inspect the area to see if the scratches are still visible.
• If the scratches remain, you can try using a ceramic hob scraper or a specialised scratch repair kit specifically designed for glass hobs. Follow the instructions carefully.
• After using the scraper or repair kit, clean and rinse the hob surface again to remove any residue.
• Dry the hob thoroughly with a soft cloth.
• If the scratches are deep or extensive, it is advisable to consult a professional for repair or consider replacing the hob.

Looking to replace a damaged or broken hob? Or simply upgrade your existing appliance? Shop our range of induction and ceramic hobs today.

SHOP INDUCTION HOBS

SHOP CERAMIC HOBS

How To Get Rid of Burn Marks on An Induction Hob

Burnt food and grease are common where cooking is concerned – here’s how to remove these stubborn stains from your hob surface:

• Make sure the hob is switched off and cool.
• Mix a paste of baking soda and water to create a natural cleaning solution.

 

• Apply the baking soda paste directly to the burn marks on the hob surface.
• Gently scrub the burn marks using a soft cloth or sponge. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure that may damage the surface.
• Continue scrubbing until the burn marks fade.
• If the burn marks persist, try using a specialised ceramic hob cleaner or a non-abrasive cooktop cleaner recommended for induction hobs. Follow the product instructions for application.
• Apply the cleaner to the burn marks and gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge.
• Rinse the hob surface thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.
• Dry the hob surface with a soft cloth.
• Inspect the area to see if the burn marks are still visible. If they remain, you may need to consult a professional for further assistance or consider replacing the affected part of the induction hob.
• Regularly clean and maintain your induction hob according to the manufacturer's guidelines to prevent burn marks and keep it in good condition.

To avoid excessive burn marks on induction hobs, it’s important to choose the right pan for the surface and technology. For more information on the best pans to use for induction hobs, check out our induction hob pan guide.

 

Safety First

When cleaning a hob, it's important to be aware of potential hazards. Here are some common risks and how to avoid them:

• Electrical Hazards: Check the hob is turned off and unplugged before cleaning. Avoid getting water or cleaning solutions near electrical components. If necessary, cover sensitive areas with plastic wrap or use cleaning methods that minimise the risk of electrical contact.
• Burns and Scalds: Hobs can retain heat even after being turned off. Allow the hob to cool completely before cleaning to avoid the risk of burns. Use protective gloves or wait until the surface is safe to touch.
• Chemical Exposure: Some cleaning agents may contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled or come into contact with the skin. Follow the instructions provided with the cleaning products and use them in a well-ventilated area. Consider wearing gloves and protective eyewear to minimise direct contact.
• Scratches or Damage: Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh cleaning tools that may scratch or damage the hob surface. Opt for non-abrasive sponges or cloths and gentle cleaning solutions designed for hobs.

 

Conclusion

In summary, the key to a long-lasting, pristine hob lies in gentle care. Avoid abrasive materials and harsh cleaning agents that risk scratching or damaging the surface. Instead, choose non-abrasive sponges, cloths, and gentle cleaning solutions for safe and effective maintenance. When in doubt, consulting the manufacturer's guide can provide clarity and ensure you're following the best practices for your specific appliance. Happy cleaning!

 

Looking for more top tips to boost your kitchen spring cleaning efforts?

RDO experts are here to help you maintain all your cooking, cleaning and washing appliances. Check out our dishwasher maintenance guide or chat with our team today.