Spoon or single-edge razor blade (only if you’re dealing with burnt-on food)
SUPPLIES
Manufacturer-approved glass stovetop cleaning solution or Bar Keepers Friend Cooktop Cleaner
Soft sponge or microfiber cloth
Paper towels
One of the advantages to having a glass-ceramic electric stovetop is that it is typically easier to wipe down than a gas or electric-coil stove. But these stovetops can be delicate, and you may end up damaging them unintentionally while cleaning them. That’s why you need to know how to clean a glass stovetop properly. Here’s what to do the next time a pot bubbles over, hot oil jumps over a frying pan, or a pot scorches a burn ring onto the stovetop.
Prepping to Clean a Glass Stovetop
Photo: Pixel-Shot / Adobe Stock
Before you begin, check the care instructions from your appliance’s manufacturer. This is the best way to ensure you clean your glass cooktop properly. What’s more, using the wrong cleaning product may cause enough damage to void your stove’s warranty, so it’s important to check first.
If you can’t find that information or your warranty no longer exists, you can always use Bar Keepers Friend. This popular store-bought cleaning product cleans stubborn grime without scratching glass surfaces.
Once you figure out what cleaning product to use, here are the basics for cleaning glass top stoves.
Allow the Stove Top to Cool
Allow your stove and glass cooking surface to cool completely before you clean, otherwise your cleaner may burn onto the glass.
Wipe the Glass with a Damp Paper Towel
Lightly wet a paper towel with water and do a preliminary wipe down on the glass to pick up any loose food particles.
Apply the Cleaner
Squirt some of your chosen cleaner over grease spots and any burned areas. Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes for especially stubborn stains.
Some cleaners, like Bar Keepers Friend, need to be applied to a damp surface first and then rinsed thoroughly within a minute of application, so make sure you read the instructions on the bottle.
Scrape Off Burnt Food
While the cleaner sits, use the edge of a spoon or a single-edge razor held at a 45-degree angle to GENTLY scrape off burnt food. This will help lubricate the surface while you dislodge the stuck food particles.
Do not hold the razor flat while scraping or the razor may scratch the glass.
Wipe Off the Cleaner
Use a damp sponge or microfiber cloth to wipe off the cleaner. Make sure you use light pressure because too much elbow grease can actually crack the glass. Avoid using the abrasive scrubbing side of the sponge or you may inadvertently leave scratches.
Allow the stovetop to dry before using the burners again.
How to Clean a Glass Stovetop with Baking Soda
Did you know that baking soda can be used to clean a glass top stove? Simply mix 3 to 4 tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to make a paste.
Spread the paste over a burn mark or stain, then cover it with a hot, damp rag. Let this sit for a few minutes—up to 15 minutes for a tough stain—then wipe away the paste with the rag. Rewet the rag with hot water and keep wiping the paste until the stains have been removed. It may require a few tries, but this works if you don’t have a cooktop cleaner on hand or prefer a more natural cleaning method.
Glass Stovetop Cleaning Tips
To help maintain your glass top stove, follow these cleaning tips:
Glass stovetops should be cleaned daily because even small splatters and drips tend to stick out on the smooth surfaces.
For daily cleaning, mist on some white vinegar and wipe away spills with a soft, damp cloth.
Clean up spills immediately, especially sugary substances and tomato sauces. When left too long, these can cool and bind to the glass. They also can stain cooktops yellow.
Check the bottom of your pots and pans for food particles and grease build-up before you cook with them, otherwise you may leave rings on the stove.
Don’t place used spoons or spatulas on a warm cooktop while you cook or you may burn food onto the stove.
What to Avoid When Cleaning a Glass Stove
To avoid damaging your glass stovetop while cleaning it, here’s what to avoid:
Glass cleaner such as Windex—the ammonia in these products can damage the stovetop.
Scrub brushes and scouring pads—these are too abrasive and will leave scratches. Only use a soft sponge, microfiber cloth, or soft rag to clean your stove.
