Smooth glass cooktops add a modern touch to any kitchen, but if yours is dirty from multiple spillovers while cooking, it may have become an eyesore. Learn more about this kitchen appliance and how to clean a glass stovetop without scratching it.
How Do Glass Cooktops Work?
Many homeowners have smooth electric cooktops, an upgrade from the electric coils found on older stoves. The glass-ceramic surface hides the metal coils from sight, but you'll notice a red-hot glow when you turn on a coil. This is the electrical resistance heat transmitting through the glass-ceramic surface to the pot or pan above.
How to Clean a Glass Stovetop
Heat transferred through a glass-ceramic surface makes for more even cooking and easier cleanup compared to electric coil stovetops. However, you must still clean your glass cooktop with care to prevent permanent discoloration or scratches. Here are the top cleaning methods you should try out.
Tips for Cleaning Your Glass Stovetop from Day to Day
Clean your glass cooktop after each use to help preserve a like-new appearance and make future cleaning easier. Here's how:
- Apply a few drops of manufacturer recommended ceramic cooktop cleaning cream. You can also spray a small amount of liquid cleaner designed to clean glass cooking surfaces.
- Wipe the entire surface with a non-abrasive cleaning pad or paper towel.
- Buff the glass and remove all cleaner residue with a dry cloth or paper towel. There is no need to rinse.
Note: If you prefer a natural cleaning method, spray the cooktop with white vinegar. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove surface debris and degrease the glass.
How to Clean Burnt Food Off a Glass Stovetop
No matter how careful you are, spillovers are liable to leave burnt food stuck to your black glass stovetop. To remove it, follow these steps:
- Allow the cooktop to cool completely.
- Apply a few drops of ceramic cooktop cleaning cream over the burned area.
- Thoroughly rub the residue with a non-abrasive cleaning pad.
- For heavily soiled areas, apply more cream and very carefully scrape the glass surface with a graspable razor blade held at a 45-degree angle.
- Once the debris is loose, remove the residue with a paper towel.
- For added protection, polish the entire surface with ceramic cooktop cleaner and a dry paper towel.
Note: If you prefer a natural cleaning method, spread baking soda over the entire cooktop after wiping down the surface with vinegar. Cover the cooktop with an old towel dampened with hot water and let it sit for 15 minutes. Scrub the area with the towel to get it as clean as possible. Then, use the razor blade technique to carefully scrape away stubborn spots.
Prevent Damage from Sugary Spills and Melted Plastic
Spillover from sugary mixtures or melted plastic can permanently damage a black glass stovetop. To prevent this, try these tips:
- As soon as you notice a sugary spill or melted plastic on the cooktop, turn off all surface units immediately.
- Set hot pans aside and put on an oven mitt.
- Using a razor blade, carefully scrape the spill to a cool area of the cooktop and wipe it away with a damp paper towel.
- Leave any remaining spillover on the cooking surface until it has cooled completely. Remove the spill with the same technique used for removing burnt food residue before using the cooktop again.
Enjoy Your Beautiful Glass Stovetop
With a little care and preservation, you can keep your black glass stovetop looking like new for years to come. For more useful glass cleaning tips, please contact Glass Doctor® today!
