Glass stove tops are sleek, modern, and a great complement to a kitchen with crisp, clean design lines. But they can also be a chore to clean. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn grease stains, a burnt on spill, or something in between, here are some tried and true tips on how to clean glass cooktops.
While not as common as gas stoves these days, especially in kitchens with homeowners who love to cook, glass cooktops are still a popular choice in kitchen remodels. The low profile and ability to seamlessly fit into a modern or minimalist kitchen design makes them an appealing option.
Plus, the single, smooth surface means no food or crumbs from cooking falling beneath a stove top grate or electric coil. But the cleaning gains they provide in one area can often be forsaken in another, as spills, burnt food, and other cooking residue can quickly adhere to the flat surface and prove difficult to remove.
Difficult, but not impossible if you know what tools to use. Here are some of the most effective methods on how to clean glass cooktops.
One of the best ways to get rid of stubborn, burnt on stains on your glass cooktop is to use baking soda. It’s a natural cleaner that can break down grease and grime. Plus, its inherent mild abrasive quality makes it ideal for removing stains without scratching the glass.
Sometimes, there are stains or gunk that are just too caked on for baking soda to be effective. In those cases, it may be time to break out a razor blade for some precision scraping.
First, get the vinegar again and spray it over the glass cooktop for some lubrication. Then, with the blade in a protective holder, ease it under the residue and gently pry it up. As before, don’t be overly aggressive. Carefully working specific areas repeatedly should remove the grime.
Along with burnt on stains, another common issue with glass cooktops is the cloudy halos that can form around the burners with repeated use. These are caused by pots and pans being continuously placed on them, resulting in rings of tiny scratches. Though not exactly dirt or grime, there are still options to help restore the shine to your glass cooktop from these hazy hazards.
Various polishing products like Scotch-Brite, Magic Cooktop Cleaner, and Cameo, claim varying degrees of success in buffing out small scratches and bringing the sparkle to your glass cooktop. As a best practice, check your product’s care instructions to see what your manufacturer may recommend.
Of course, one of the best ways to keep your cooktop looking like new is to clean up spills and messes regularly and do some regular maintenance.
The methods described here are all pretty safe and effective, but it’s always a good idea to consult your manufacturer instructions before diving right in and trying a new cleaning product. You want to avoid doing or using something that could negatively affect your warranty.