Knowing how to clean an electric cooktop correctly makes all the difference between an appliance that lasts for years and one that deteriorates prematurely. Whether you're dealing with sauce splatters or stubborn burnt-on residue, the right techniques let you remove everything without scratching or damaging the surface.
Why should you regularly maintain your electric cooktop?
Food residue left on the heating elements ends up carbonising with every subsequent use. This creates unpleasant odours, reduces heating efficiency and can, over time, damage the heating elements themselves. A quick wipe-down after each use — even a brief one — prevents build-up and saves you time in the long run.
Compact cooktops like the bakeVIA are particularly appreciated for the ease of their maintenance: their smooth, accessible surface can be cleaned without any complex disassembly.
What do you need to clean an electric cooktop?
- A soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge
- Mild washing-up liquid
- Baking soda (for stubborn stains)
- Diluted white vinegar (for limescale)
- A soft plastic scraper (optional, for burnt-on residue)
- A clean dry cloth to finish
Avoid metal scourers, abrasive sponges and harsh cleaning products that may scratch or strip the cooktop's coating.
How to clean an electric cooktop step by step
- Allow the cooktop to cool completely. Never clean a cooktop that is still hot: risk of burns and thermal shock to the surface.
- Unplug the appliance for electrical safety.
- Wipe away loose debris with a dry cloth or paper towel to remove crumbs and surface splatters.
- Apply a solution of water and washing-up liquid with a soft sponge. Rub in circular motions over the entire surface.
- For burnt-on stains, apply a baking soda paste (baking soda mixed with a few drops of water), leave it to work for 10 to 15 minutes, then gently scrub and rinse.
- Rinse with a clean damp cloth to remove all product residue.
- Dry thoroughly with a dry cloth before plugging in or using the cooktop again.
How to remove burnt stains from an electric cooktop?
Carbonised stains are the most stubborn. Use a soft plastic scraper held flat to gently lift the residue without pressing too hard. Follow up with the baking soda paste to neutralise the last traces. Don't try to remove everything in one go: several gentle applications are far better than vigorous scrubbing that damages the surface.
Should you clean the electric cooktop after every use?
Yes, a quick wipe-down after each use — once the cooktop has cooled — is sufficient in most cases. This prevents grease from polymerising under heat during the next cooking session. A thorough clean once a week is recommended for daily use, to tackle more stubborn residue before it becomes permanently ingrained.
Maintenance and longevity: good habits to adopt
- Use suitable cookware (flat base, smooth edges) to avoid excessive splattering.
- Don't let liquids boil over: reduce the heat to medium or low as soon as boiling begins.
- Avoid placing wet lids directly onto the cold cooktop after cooking.
- Store your cooktop in a dry place to prevent oxidation of the connections.
The bakeVIA electric cooktop is designed for compact, practical everyday use. Its accessible surface makes maintenance straightforward, making it an ideal choice for small spaces, studio flats or secondary kitchens where you want to cook without the hassle.
What to absolutely avoid when cleaning
- Submerging the cooktop in water or rinsing it under running water
- Using spray cleaners directly on the heating elements
- Scrubbing with steel wool or an abrasive pad
- Cleaning the cooktop while it is still hot or plugged in