How to clean an induction cooktop – simple steps to a streak-free shine

Looking for how to clean an induction cooktop quickly? You can achieve a spotless clean with this expert-approved method

Induction cooktops in a kitchen
(Image credit: GettyImages)

Induction cooktops have revolutionized cooking processes in recent years – but as with all kitchen appliances, there comes a time when you need to give it a quick refresh. So, it is only natural that you will wonder how to clean an induction cooktop after you've finished eating.

While some cooking exhibitions can be messier than others, it is common to clean an induction cooktop after every use – even if, sometimes, it is just a quick wipe down. However, if you want a streak-free shine, it is worth following expert-approved cleaning tips for a spotless finish. 

How to clean an induction cooktop – expert steps to a streak-free finish  

Induction cooktops in a kitchen

(Image credit: GettyImages)

'Induction cooktops are easy to clean because of their nonporous ceramic glass surface,' says Daniel P. Craig, the Founder of Kitchen Deets. According to Daniel, prevention is better than a cure, so he recommends using parchment paper [such as this paper from Amazon] when you're frying or cooking particularly messy foods such as pasta sauce.

However, if you've dirtied your induction cooktop, it's refreshingly easy to clean. These professional kitchen ideas will teach you what you need to know. 

1. Wait for your stove to cool  

Chef and founder of Cook For Folks, Anna Silver, recommends allowing your induction cooktop to cool completely before starting the clean. This process is essential to a streak-free finish, as 'any cleaning liquid you use to dry prematurely [will leave] marks and smears.'

2. Disinfect your countertop  

Once cool, Anna suggests taking your regular disinfectant product and spraying it all over the countertop. She wipes the surface with a microfibre cloth – the tool behind spotless success. 'It immediately leaves fewer streaks than a paper towel would – and it's better for the environment,' Anna says. 

Induction cooktops in a kitchen

(Image credit: GettyImages)

3. Finish with a separate microfibre cloth 

To ensure a streak-free shine, Anna takes a separate microfibre cloth (that is free from disinfectant) and rubs it across the countertop in small circular motions. 'By gently polishing it with this cloth, you don't need any other type of polish – the streaks should be gone immediately.'

'However, if you do prefer to use another polish/cleaner on top of the disinfectant, I would recommend Method Glass Cleaner – it smells amazing and doesn't leave any streaks,' the expert adds. 

Whether you're cleaning your chef's kitchen after a freshly cooked meal, or you want to impress your guests with a sparkling clean space – this method will give you the finish you desire, fast. 

Megan Slack
Head of Celebrity Style News

Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens. She first joined Future Plc as a News Writer across their interiors titles, including Livingetc and Real Homes, before becoming H&G's News Editor in April 2022. She now leads the Celebrity/ News team. Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph, following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and an expansive collection of houseplants.