How to clean cooktop? Tips for keeping your stove clean

Just like other household appliances, the evolution of stoves is quite evident over the years. Currently we can count on several models, whether they are simpler, such as traditional stoves with oven, or cook tops electrical.

If you are one of those who have already adopted the new stove model, now you must be asking yourself “how am I going to clean this cooktop”? To do this, we have put together some simple tricks that will help you a lot with this task, after all.

Some care with the cooktop

First, look at the model of your stove. If it is gas, always close the valve before cleaning. If it is electric, the same goes for the socket. By turning off these devices, you run less risk of having an accident.

How to clean a cooktop is very simple, however, it requires greater care, especially when scrubbing. Always use cloths, sponges and similar materials made of non-abrasive materials, so your stove has less risk of scratching.

The cleaning interval is also shorter than for regular stoves. Most cooktops are made of glass and this material, if exposed to grease and the like for a long time, can eventually end up scratching or losing its shine. In the meantime, whenever splashes of any preparation escape onto the glass table or any of the flames, wait for the stove to cool down and clean it up.

How to clean a gas cooktop

As previously stated, there are several cooktop models and for each of them, some cleaning specifications are necessary, after all.

You will need…

• Water
• Neutral detergent
• Sponge
• Cotton cloth
• Glass polish

Step by step:

1. Firstly, close the gas valve and unplug your cooktop from the socket. Then, make sure the stove burners are cold and remove them from the grates. Set these parts aside for separate cleaning.
2. Then, with a clean cotton or multipurpose cloth, remove excess dirt from the stovetop.
3. After removing the excess, with a damp sponge, pour a little detergent on the soft side of it and start scrubbing the cooktop table.
4. Then, after rubbing all the dirt, with a damp cloth, remove excess product.
5. Lastly, spray with glass polish and rub with a dry, soft cloth.

Cleaning the cooktop burners and grills, homemade recipe

These cooktop parts are the most prone to grease accumulation, which is why they require more attention and more elaborate products when cleaning.

You will need…

• Vinegar
• Sodium bicarbonate
• Neutral detergent
• Sponge
• Water

Step by step

1. First, wash the parts with soap and water. Then, in a container, make a mixture of vinegar+bicarbonate and a little detergent.
2. Then, spray the mixture over the entire surface of the stove burners and grates. Wait 20 minutes for it to take effect.
3. Finally, rinse with water and repeat the washing process.

Note: Firstly, always make sure the caps are dry before placing them in the appropriate location. Excess water on the burners, consequently, can damage your cooktop or cause the flames to malfunction.

Cleaning electric cooktop

How to clean an electric cooktop is not very different from a gas cooktop, in fact, this model is even more practical as it does not have burners or grates.

You will need…

• Water
• Neutral detergent
• sponge
• Glass polish
• Cotton cloth

Step by step:

1. Beforehand, never pour products onto the cooktop directly, this could stain your stove and consequently remove its shine. Therefore, first, remove excess dirt with a cotton or multipurpose cloth.
2. Then, using a damp sponge and a little detergent, scrub the surface of your cooktop carefully.
3. With a soft, damp cloth, remove excess soap.
4. Finally, spray the glass polish and rub with a soft, dry cloth.

Removing stubborn dirt

If the previous processes are not enough, use this recipe to restore shine and a clean appearance to your cooktop. Initially, this tip can be used on all models of this type of stove.

You will need…

• Vinegar
• Sodium bicarbonate
• Warm water
• Cotton cloth
• Detergent

Step by step:

1. Firstly, cleaning a cooktop is not that difficult if you maintain your daily cleaning routine. If something unexpected happens and more dense dirt sets in, first, sprinkle a little baking soda over the entire surface of the stove.
2. Then, spray the vinegar and wait for it to fizz. Leave it to act for about 15 minutes, this reaction helps to soften the fat particles, making them easier to remove.
3. Then, dampen the cloth in warm water, previously mixing with detergent and remove excess bicarbonate+vinegar.
4. Finally, use a dry, soft cloth to finish cleaning the stove.

Cooktop maintenance tips

You should avoid very abrasive products, especially on glass cooktops. These products over time can corrode your stove and reduce its durability.

Furthermore, on induction cooktops, always use pans with a straight base, in order to avoid grooves on the stovetop.

In conclusion, always use neutral soap, sponges and soft cloths. While these items help maintain your cooktop, without possibly causing damage to it.

So, if you liked this article, also find out how to clean other types of stoves and glass tables.

Sources: Consul, A Casa Encantada and Tudo Gostoso.

Images: A Gazeta, Viva Decora, Loja Fischer and Guida dos Melhores.