This DIY Cleaner Is Perfect for Cleaning Your Induction Cooktop (2024)

Equipment / Tools

Materials

How to Clean an Induction Cooktop with Baking Soda and Vinegar

1. Allow the Cooktop to Cool Completely

   Although the conduction of heat stops immediately, there can be residual heat from the pots and pans. Do not clean until the cooktop is cool to the touch.

2. Create a Cleaning Solution

   Mix 1 cup of hot water, 1 cup of distilled white vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid that contains grease-cutting ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake to mix well.

   In a pinch, you can substitute bottled or strained lemon juice for the distilled white vinegar.

   Tip

   This solution can be used for a quick clean-up each time the cooktop is used for food preparation.

3. Spray the Cooktop and Wait

   Spray the cool cooktop liberally with the vinegar mixture. Let it sit on the cooktop for 10 to 15 minutes. Wipe away the grease and grime with a damp non-abrasive sponge working in small circles.

   Rinse the sponge often with plain water, and dry the cooktop to a shine with a lint-free microfiber cloth.

4. Tackle Stuck-on Food

   Spray the cooktop with the vinegar solution. Sprinkle the burned or stuck-on food with a liberal layer of baking soda. Let it work for at least 15 minutes to soften the food.

   Use a plastic scraper to loosen the food. Wipe away the mess with a damp non-abrasive sponge and dry the cooktop with a microfiber towel.
   

What Not to Use to Clean an Induction Cooktop

Almost more important than what to use to clean an induction cooktop is what NOT to use. These products are more harsh and can cause scratches that cannot be removed and may permanently damage the cooktop.

• Steel wool
• Abrasive scrubbing sponges and brushes especially those with metal bristles
• Harsh scouring powders
• Chlorine bleach
• Ammonia
• Rust removers

Tips to Keep Your Induction Cooktop Clean Longer

• Clean the cooktop after every use.
• If you live in a hard water area, use plain distilled white vinegar to remove white spots or hard water stains from the cooktop. Dampen a microfiber cloth with vinegar. Place the cloth over the spots and let it sit for five minutes and then rub away the spots. Rinse the cloth well to remove the vinegar and wipe down the cooktop. Dry with a clean microfiber cloth.
• Take care when handling cookware to prevent scratches. Try not to drag the pots and pans across the cooktop. Lift and place them instead.
• Be sure the bottoms of pots and pans are completely clean before placing them on the cooktop to prevent the chance of burned-on food.
• Never use abrasive or harsh cleaners or tools when cleaning an induction cooktop.