How to Clean an Induction Hob Without Scratching It

Induction hobs have a smooth glass surface that is easy to wipe down, but unsuitable cleaners and abrasive tools can leave scratches, streaks or dull patches.

This guide explains how to clean an induction hob safely, deal with stubborn marks and reduce the amount of residue that builds up between uses.

Always follow the cleaning and care instructions supplied by your hob manufacturer.

What You Will Need

Use products designed for glass or induction cooking surfaces:

• A cleaner suitable for induction hobs
• A soft, non-abrasive sponge or cloth
• A clean microfibre cloth
• Warm water

The Bake-O-Glide® Induction Hob Cleaning Kit contains HG Hob Cleaner Extra Strong, a Mr Eco cellulose sponge cloth and Spontex microfibre cloths.

Before You Start

Switch the hob off and allow it to cool completely.

Remove cookware, induction hob protectors and any loose items from the surface. Wipe away crumbs, salt, grit and other loose debris before applying cleaner. Moving this debris around the glass can cause scratches.

How to Clean an Induction Hob

1. Remove loose debris
   Wipe the cool surface gently with a soft, damp cloth.
2. Apply hob cleaner
   Shake the cleaning product if directed, then apply a small amount to the glass. Follow the instructions on the product packaging.
3. Work on marked areas
   Use a soft sponge or cloth and light circular movements. Avoid excessive pressure and do not use an abrasive scourer.
4. Remove the residue
   Rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe away the cleaner. Repeat if necessary.
5. Dry and polish
   Buff the surface with a clean microfibre cloth to remove moisture and streaks.

How to Remove Stubborn Marks

For dried or burnt-on residue, apply a suitable induction-hob cleaner and allow it to work for the time stated on its label.

Gently work the area with a non-abrasive sponge. Repeat the cleaning process instead of applying heavy pressure.

Do not use improvised blades or metal tools unless they are specifically permitted by your hob manufacturer.

What Should You Avoid?

Do not clean an induction hob with:

• Steel wool
• Abrasive scouring pads
• Harsh brushes
• Oven cleaner
• Bleach
• Undiluted abrasive cleaning powders
• Metal utensils
• Unsuitable glass scrapers

These products and tools can scratch, dull or otherwise damage the surface.

How Often Should You Clean an Induction Hob?

Wipe the hob after each use once it has cooled. Removing food and grease early prevents residue from becoming harder to clean.

A more thorough clean can be carried out weekly or whenever grease, streaks or stubborn marks begin to build up.

How to Help Prevent Scratches

• Lift cookware instead of dragging it.
• Keep the underside of pans clean.
• Remove grit, salt and crumbs before cooking.
• Avoid placing utensils or other hard objects directly on the glass.
• Use compatible cookware with a smooth, undamaged base.
• Consider using an induction hob protector.

Using an Induction Hob Protector

An induction hob protector creates a barrier between compatible cookware and the glass, helping to reduce scratches, scuffs and pan movement.

The Original, Edged and Circle designs use open mesh. Liquid can pass through them, so spills must still be cleaned from the hob.

The Solid protector has a sealed surface that prevents spills and boil-overs from passing through to the glass.

Whichever design you use, regularly remove it and check that the hob, cookware and protector are clean and dry. Read our guide to induction hob protectors to compare all four designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ordinary kitchen cleaner?

Only use a product that its manufacturer describes as suitable for induction or glass-ceramic hobs. Some general-purpose cleaners can leave residue, streaks or a dull finish.

Can I clean the hob while it is warm?

Wait until the hob has cooled completely. Cleaning a warm surface can create a burn risk and may cause the cleaning product to dry before it can be removed properly.

Can I use washing-up liquid?

A small amount of mild washing-up liquid and warm water may be sufficient for light everyday cleaning. Use a dedicated induction-hob cleaner for stubborn grease and residue.

How do I remove streaks?

Wipe away all cleaning-product residue with a clean, damp cloth, then dry and polish the glass with a clean microfibre cloth.

Should I clean underneath my hob protector?

Yes. Remove the protector regularly and clean away spills, crumbs and grease from both the protector and the glass. This is especially important with open-mesh protectors.

For guidance on cleaning the protector itself, read our Induction Hob Protector FAQs and Care Guide.

Shop the induction hob cleaning kit