How to effectively clean ceramic glass cooktops without scratching them

Ceramic glass cooktops look great, but they can scratch if cleaned with the wrong tools. The safest approach is to use gentle cleaners and avoid abrasive materials.

What you’ll need

  • Microfiber cloth or soft sponge
  • Warm water
  • A few drops of dish soap
  • A cleaner made specifically for ceramic glass cooktops (optional)
  • A cooktop scraper with a razor blade designed for glass cooktops (for burnt-on residue only)

Step-by-step cleaning

  1. Let the cooktop cool completely. Cleaning a hot surface can cause burns and may damage some cleaning products.
  2. Wipe away loose crumbs with a dry microfiber cloth.
  3. Clean with soapy water. Dampen a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a little dish soap, then wipe the surface.
  4. Treat stubborn stains. Apply a ceramic cooktop cleaner according to the label, or use a cooktop scraper held at a low angle (about 30–45°) to gently lift burnt-on food. Don’t force the blade or dig into the glass.
  5. Buff dry. Wipe away any cleaner residue with a damp cloth, then dry and polish with a clean microfiber cloth.

What to avoid

  • Steel wool or scouring pads
  • Abrasive powders or harsh scrubbers
  • Bleach or oven cleaner (unless the manufacturer specifically approves it)
  • Sliding heavy pots and pans across the surface
  • Cleaning while the cooktop is still hot

Tips to keep it looking new

  • Wipe up spills as soon as the surface has cooled.
  • Lift cookware instead of dragging it.
  • Use flat-bottomed cookware to reduce wear.
  • Clean regularly to prevent burnt-on buildup that’s harder to remove.

For heavy, baked-on residue, a scraper designed specifically for ceramic glass cooktops is much safer and more effective than abrasive scrubbing.

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