Induction cooktops are a modern marvel in Sydney kitchens, offering fast, efficient cooking and a sleek, stylish appearance. An induction cooktop is one of your kitchen’s most popular appliances. But here’s the catch—while they’re efficient and beautiful, they also need the proper care to keep them looking as good as new.
It might seem like a no-brainer, but several common mistakes can quickly ruin your induction cooktop if you’re not careful when cleaning it. This article’ll explain these mistakes, how to avoid them, and some simple cleaning tips to ensure your cooktop stays in top condition for years.
For an induction cooktop cleaning guide, check out this article: How to clean an Induction Cooktop? It covers everything you need to know to keep your cooktop sparkling clean and functioning like new.
1. Using Abrasive Cleaners or Scrubbers
It’s easy to think that a harsh, abrasive cleaner or scrubber will help you tackle stubborn stains, especially when rushing to clean up after a meal. However, using abrasive materials can cause deep scratches in the smooth glass surface of your induction cooktop—damage that’s almost impossible to fix.
How to avoid this mistake:
Always clean it with a soft microfiber cloth. Use a cleaner specifically designed for induction or ceramic cooktops for tougher stains. These products are gentle yet effective, preserving the cooktop’s surface while removing stubborn grime.
2. Cleaning While the Cooktop is Still Hot
We’ve all been there—after a delicious meal, the instinct is to clean up quickly. But cleaning while your induction cooktop is still hot can damage it. Hot surfaces can cause cleaners to evaporate too quickly, and the residual heat can lead to streaks or stains that are hard to remove.
How to avoid this mistake:
Let your cooktop cool for a few minutes. Always wait for the surface to cool before cleaning. If you’re in a rush, wipe it down gently while it’s still warm, but make sure it’s not too hot to handle. This easy step will prevent more significant problems down the road.
3. Spilling Acidic or Harsh Liquids
Accidents happen, especially in a fast-paced city like Sydney, where you constantly juggle work, family, and life. You might spill coffee, lemon juice, or vinegar without realising it. If these liquids aren’t cleaned up quickly, they can leave permanent stains or cause damage to the cooktop surface.
How to avoid this mistake:
Sydney is known for its café culture, so coffee spills occur regularly in many homes. Immediately clean up spills, especially acidic ones, with a damp cloth. The quicker you act, the less likely they will cause lasting damage.
4. Using Excessive Water
Living near the coast, in suburbs like Coogee or Cronulla, can expose your kitchen to more humidity. While using plenty of water to wipe down surfaces is tempting, doing so on an induction cooktop can cause issues, especially around the electrical components. Too much water can seep into the edges and cause long-term damage.
How to avoid this mistake:
Use a damp cloth—never soak—and dry the surface immediately after cleaning. If you live in a humid area near the harbour or the Eastern Suburbs, consider wiping your cooktop down more frequently to prevent moisture buildup. A quick dry-off will keep your cooktop functioning well and looking its best.
5. Forgetting to Remove Burnt-on Food
You might have noticed burnt-on food that refuses to budge. While it might be tempting to ignore it, leaving burnt food on your induction cooktop will make it harder to clean over time and may cause surface damage.
How to avoid this mistake:
As soon as you notice burnt food, gently scrape it off with a scraper at a 45-degree angle. If you leave it too long, it will become harder to remove, leaving you with a dull, stained cooktop. A quick wipe after each cooking session will save you from future headaches.
6. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
Many of us love eco-friendly products, and while that’s great, not all cleaning products are suitable for induction cooktops. Some all-purpose cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can strip away the cooktop’s coating, leaving it dull and prone to stains.
How to avoid this mistake:
Stick to cleaners that are designed for induction cooktops. These products are formulated to clean effectively without causing damage. If you prefer natural products, ensure they don’t contain acidic or abrasive ingredients. Choosing the right cleaner will keep your cooktop pristine.
7. Not Drying the Cooktop Properly
Sydney’s humid climate, especially in coastal areas like Manly or Vaucluse, can cause water to linger on your cooktop longer than usual. If you don’t dry the cooktop properly after cleaning, you’ll have water spots and streaks that are hard to remove.
How to avoid this mistake:
Always dry your cooktop thoroughly with a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining water. This will prevent water spots from forming and keep your cooktop looking shiny and new. It’s a small but crucial step in Sydney’s humid areas.
8. Using Too Much Pressure
When cleaning, it can be tempting to scrub away stubborn spots vigorously. However, excessive pressure on your induction cooktop can cause scratches that permanently damage the surface.
How to avoid this mistake:
Be gentle. Use a soft cloth and avoid pressing too hard. A light touch ensures you don’t harm the cooktop’s glass surface while removing dirt and grime.
Wrapping It Up
Induction cooktops are among the most efficient and stylish additions to any kitchen in Sydney. From the inner suburbs like Glebe to the northern beaches, these appliances are found in homes across the city, providing convenience and elegance. By avoiding these common cleaning mistakes, you can keep your cooktop pristine and performing like new for years.
These simple tips will ensure your cooktop stays in perfect condition, allowing you to enjoy many years of cooking without a hitch. Sydney’s beautiful homes deserve a cooktop that shines—take care of it, and it’ll take care of you.
