Induction hobs are now one of the most popular kitchen appliances across London – especially in modern E14 homes around Canary Wharf, Poplar, Limehouse, and the Isle of Dogs, where sleek, minimal, energy-efficient kitchens are the norm. They heat faster, use less energy, look elegant, and are generally easier to maintain than gas or ceramic hobs.
But even with all their benefits, one thing remains true: induction hobs get dirty quickly.
Grease splatters, burnt-on food, oily fingerprints, hard-water rings, and milk spill-overs can all leave your hob looking cloudy, stained, or scratched. And because induction surfaces are made from specialised glass-ceramic, they need to be cleaned properly, using the right tools, the green cleaning agents, and the correct technique to avoid permanent marks. Mastering the correct method for induction hob cleaning protects your investment and keeps it performing perfectly.
This definitive BetterMaid guide will show you exactly how to clean an induction hob safely, prevent long-term damage, and keep it looking glossy, spotless, and brand-new. Follow our step-by-step approach to induction hob cleaning for the best results.
Why Induction Hobs Need Special Care
Before diving into the step-by-step cleaning process, it’s important to understand what makes induction hobs unique:
1. Glass-ceramic surface
This surface is durable but also prone to micro-scratches, smearing, and dulling if the wrong cleaning product is used (e.g., rough sponges, powdered cleaners, scraping knives, acidic agents).
2. Heat-sensitive zones
Although the hob doesn’t heat directly, the residual heat from pans can bake on food or cause stubborn rings.
3. Touch-control panels
These can malfunction if moisture gets underneath them – which is why spraying cleaning chemicals directly on the surface should always be avoided.
4. Quick-heating capability
Food spills can instantly burn onto the surface if not wiped away promptly.
This means your approach to induction hob cleaning must use a method that is:
- Non-abrasive
- Safe for glass-ceramic
- Effective against grease and burnt-on residue
- Preventative against future stains
Tools & Products You’ll Need
You don’t need anything expensive, just the right combination of safe tools:
Safe tools
- Microfibre cloths
- Soft sponge (non-abrasive)
- Kitchen towel
- Plastic scraper designed for glass hobs
- Soft-bristle brush (optional)
- Spray bottle (if using homemade solutions)
Cleaning products that are safe
- Hob-specific cream cleaners (e.g., Cif Hob Cleaner, Hob Brite)
- White vinegar (diluted)
- Mild dishwashing liquid
- Warm water
- Bicarbonate of soda (for stubborn stains)
- Non-streak glass cleaner (for final shine)
Avoid using
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- Scouring pads
- Wire wool
- Bleach
- Powder cleaners
- Sharp metal tools
- Undiluted vinegar (too acidic for glass-ceramic)
Step-By-Step: How to Clean an Induction Hob Safely
Even stubborn burnt-on residue can be restored with safe hob-cleaning techniques.
STEP 1: Switch Off the Hob and Let It Cool Completely
Never clean an induction hob that is still warm.
Why?
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- Cold water on hot glass can cause thermal shock.
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- Cleaning products may burn and leave permanent stains.
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- Residual heat causes smearing.
Always allow 10–15 minutes of cooling time before beginning any induction hob cleaning.
STEP 2: Remove Loose Debris with a Soft Dry Cloth
Before adding any liquid, wipe away:
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- Food crumbs
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- Dust
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- Loose particles
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- Dried splashes
This prevents them from scratching the surface when you begin cleaning.
STEP 3: Apply a Mild Cleaning Solution
Use one of the following:
Option A: Commercial Hob Cleaner (Best for frequent use)
Apply a small amount of hob-specific cream cleaner and spread it gently using a microfibre cloth.
Option B: Homemade Vinegar Solution (Eco-friendly)
Mix:
-
- 1 part white vinegar
-
- 3 parts warm water
Spray onto the cloth (NOT directly onto the hob) to maintain safe induction hob cleaning practices.
Option C: Dish Soap + Warm Water (Everyday cleaning)
Works for grease and mild stains.
STEP 4: Wipe in Circular Motions
Gently rub the cleaner into the surface using:
1. A soft sponge
2. Or a microfibre cloth
Use circular motions to lift grease and break down fingerprints.
DO NOT use excessive force – induction hobs are designed for gentle cleaning.
STEP 5: Tackle Stubborn Burnt-On Marks and Residue
Even the most careful cook occasionally ends up with:
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- Scorched milk
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- Burnt sauce splashes
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- Hardened food residue
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- Boil-overs
For these tougher marks, which require a more focused approach to induction hob cleaning, use the following methods:
Method 1: Bicarbonate of Soda Paste (Safe & natural)
Mix:
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- 1 tbsp bicarbonate of soda
-
- A few drops of water
Spread the paste over the stain
Cover with a warm, damp cloth for 10 minutes
Wipe away gently
Method 2: Plastic Hob Scraper
For hardened residue:
-
- Hold the scraper at a 30–45° angle
-
- Gently push the residue away
-
- Never press down
-
- Always scrape on a cool hob
Only use plastic scrapers designed for induction hobs – not razor blades.
Method 3: Vinegar + Bicarbonate Reaction (For heavy grease)
Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda on the stain
Spray vinegar lightly onto a cloth
Dab the area
Let it fizz for 2 minutes
Wipe clean
STEP 6: Buff and Polish for a Streak-Free Finish
Once the hob is clean:
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- Wipe with a damp cloth
-
- Wipe again with a dry microfibre cloth
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- Apply glass cleaner (optional for extra shine)
Buff until the surface looks glossy, mirror-clear, and smear-free.
How to Remove Specific Induction Hob Stains
1. Oily Grease Marks
Use a degreasing dish soap + hot water solution.
Follow up with a glass cleaner for shine.
2. Water Marks / Hard-Water Rings
Mix:
- 1 part vinegar
- 4 parts water
Wipe gently and buff dry immediately.
3. Burnt Milk
Use a bicarbonate paste under a warm towel.
Milk stains need longer soaking because of lactose caramelisation.
4. Cloudy or Dull Glass
Use hob-specific cream polish to restore gloss.
5. Sticky Sugar Spills
Soak with warm soapy water.
Do NOT scrape sugar spills while hot – melted sugar can cause micro-scratches.
How Often Should You Clean an Induction Hob?
Daily (After Cooking)
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- Wipe with warm soapy water or a vinegar solution
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- Dry immediately to prevent streaks
Weekly Deep Clean
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- Use hob cleaner cream
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- Remove burnt-on residue
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- Polish the surface
Monthly
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- Treat with a gloss-restoring polish
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- Check edges and touch controls for grime buildup
Mistakes to Avoid (These Can Permanently Damage Your Hob)
1. Using abrasive pads or scourers
They cause micro-scratches that never go away.
2. Letting spills sit too long
Burnt spills become harder to remove and can stain permanently.
3. Using excess water near touch controls
Moisture can cause a malfunction.
4. Using harsh chemicals (bleach, oven cleaner)
These erode the protective glass coating.
5. Dragging pans across the hob
Always lift – never slide.
Pro Cleaning Tips from BetterMaid Technicians
Our cleaning team has cleaned hundreds of modern induction hobs in Canary Wharf, Limehouse, and Poplar. Here are the pro secrets:
Tip 1. Always start with the gentlest method
You can always work up to stronger solutions – but you can’t undo scratches.
Tip 2. Use two cloths
One for cleaning
One for drying
This is the key to a streak-free finish.
Tip 3. Avoid circular smearing
Buff using straight strokes for a clearer shine.
Tip 4. Use a warm towel, “steam soak”
Place a wet, warm cloth over stubborn stains for 10 minutes – it softens everything.
Tip 5. Finish with a fingerprint-resistant polish
Especially helpful in glossy black induction models.
Best Cleaning Products for Induction Hobs (UK-Recommended)
Top Commercial Cleaners
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- Hob Brite Ceramic Hob Cleaner
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- Cif Perfect Finish Hob Cleaner
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- Astonish Hob Cleaner
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- E-Cloth Hob & Oven Pack
Eco-Friendly Choices
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- White vinegar + water
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- Bicarbonate of soda
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- Purdy & Figg Natural Surface Cleaner
Microfibre Cloth Types
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- Polishing cloth
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- General cleaning cloth
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- Glass-finishing cloth
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use vinegar on an induction hob?
Yes – but always diluted. Undiluted vinegar is too acidic for glass-ceramic.
2. Is it safe to use a razor blade?
No. Use only plastic scrapers designed for induction hobs.
3. Why does my hob look cloudy even after cleaning?
This is usually due to:
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- limescale
-
- incorrect cleaners
-
- micro-scratches
Use hob-polish to restore clarity.
- micro-scratches
4. Can burnt-on food permanently damage the hob?
If left too long, yes. Some stains can etch the glass over time.
5. How do I prevent streaks?
Always dry the surface with a microfibre polishing cloth after cleaning.
If you’re struggling with burnt-on residue, grease rings, or a cloudy induction hob, let the experts handle it.
BetterMaid’s professional cleaning team provides:
- Kitchen Deep Cleaning
- End-of-Tenancy Cleaning
- Eco-friendly Degreasing
- Same-Day Availability
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Book your induction hob deep clean today. Get a Free Quote:
Serving Canary Wharf E14 and all Greater London postcodes