Electric cooktops are excellent for saving space and energy in the kitchen. If you’re new to electric cooktops, the coils can be tricky to clean. The most important thing is to keep your stovetop and electronic areas dry while you clean. Be sure to remove the coils before washing them.
Over time, it’s natural for your electric cooktop to build up grime and grease. Though food splashes and stains are unavoidable, regular maintenance will help to avoid deep-scrubbing in the long run.
Good electric cooktop maintenance also means using the right cleaning products for your particular cooktop surface. Whether you have traditional electric stovetops with coils or a smooth glass cooktop, cleaning spills regularly can help prevent stubborn build-up, scratches and permanent stains.
If your cooktop needs a replacement, consider Goldline’s glass-top electric cooktops found in a Harvey Norman store near you.
How to Clean Electric Cooktop Coils
Before cleaning an electric stove, always check the manufacturer’s specific cleaning instructions, as cleaning methods can vary depending on the cooktop material and design.
Supplies You’ll Need:
- Dishwashing detergent
- Heavy-duty sponge
- Baking soda (optional)
- Vinegar (optional)
- Water
- 2-3 clean cloths
1. Take the Coils Off the Cooktop
To remove the coils, first lift the burner away from the stove. Next, pull away from where the coil is attached and unhook it.
If your model allows the removable components to be washed separately, a laundry tub or kitchen sink can provide enough room to clean them with warm water. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions before soaking or washing electrical cooktop components.
2. Clean the Surface
Use a cloth with a mixture of dish soap and water to wipe down the surface and coils. For thicker grime, continue to the next step.
A damp sponge, soft cloth or microfiber cloth can also be useful for wiping the surrounding cooktop surface. Pay particular attention to affected areas where spills or stuck-on food have accumulated.
For smooth electric cooktops with touch controls, take extra care to prevent excess moisture from entering the control area.
3. Cut Through Grease with a Sponge
For stubborn stains and burnt food, use a rough-surfaced sponge to scrub old grease and grime. A tin foil sponge can give extra cleaning power.
For glass or ceramic cooktops, however, avoid abrasive cleaners, steel wool and other abrasive materials that could scratch the surface. Instead, use cleaning products designed for your particular cooktop and follow the manufacturer’s specific cleaning instructions.
For tougher cleaning, spray a mixture of vinegar and water on the coils and let it sit for 10–15 minutes before wiping. Alternatively, make a baking soda paste with water, coat the coils, let rest for 15–20 minutes, then wipe clean.
Using a spray bottle can make it easier to apply the cleaning mixture evenly. A little baking soda can also help with difficult areas where appropriate, but always check that the cleaning method is suitable for your particular cooktop.
On a smooth glass cooktop, a manufacturer-approved cooktop cleaner may be more appropriate. For stuck-on food or particularly difficult residue, an approved cooktop scraper can be used to gently scrape the affected area according to the manufacturer’s directions. This can help remove stubborn stains while reducing the risk of damaging the glass.
For more advice on protecting smooth electric cooktops, read Goldline’s guide on What Not to Do on a Flat Electric Cooktop.
4. Wipe Down the Coils
After removing grime, wipe down the coils with a damp cloth to remove any remaining food particles or debris.
Once clean, use a dry soft cloth or microfiber cloth where appropriate to remove remaining moisture. Drying the surface thoroughly can help prevent water spots and keep the cooktop looking clean.
5. Reattach the Coils to the Burners
Lift the coils a few inches above the burners and hook them back onto the stove. Ensure they fit correctly inside the burner drip pan.
Make sure all appropriate components are completely dry before reconnecting or using the electric stove.
Extra Care for a Glass Cooktop
Smooth electric cooktops require slightly different care from traditional coil models. Regular cleaning can help prevent scratches, staining and build-up on the cooktop surface.
For everyday care:
- Wipe spills once the surface is safe to clean.
- Use a soft cloth, microfiber cloth or damp sponge for routine cleaning.
- Choose a suitable cooktop cleaner designed for glass or ceramic surfaces.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners and steel wool, which can scratch the surface.
- Use an approved cooktop scraper to gently scrape stubborn residue where the manufacturer recommends it.
- Dry the surface after cleaning to help prevent water spots.
- Follow the appliance’s specific cleaning instructions, particularly around touch controls.
You can also read Goldline’s How to Clean a Cooktop: A Quick Guide for Busy People for more cooktop cleaning tips.
Wrapping It Up
Regular cleaning makes maintaining electric cooktops easier and prevents stains from setting. Alternatively, explore our smooth-top electric cooktops which are coil-free and much easier to clean. Find our flat electric cooktops in your local Harvey Norman store.
Making electric cooktop maintenance part of your regular kitchen routine can help keep the surface free from stuck-on food, spills and grime. Using appropriate cleaning products and taking care to prevent scratches can also help maintain the appearance of your cooktop over time.
