How to clean your hob: A complete care guide

A clean hob not only looks better but also performs better – it’s a win-win!

Whether you have an induction, ceramic, or gas hob, regular cleaning helps maintain its appearance, efficiency, and functionality. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to clean different types of hobs safely and effectively.

How to clean a ceramic hob

Ceramic hobs can show marks and stains easily, but with the right approach, you can keep them looking spotless. For daily cleaning, wait until your hob has completely cooled, then wipe with a soft, damp cloth to remove any loose debris.

For tougher stains, use a specialist ceramic hob cleaner. Apply the cleaner with a soft cloth or sponge, working in circular motions. Once cleaned, buff the surface with a dry microfibre cloth to prevent streaks.

How to clean ceramic hob without scratching

Maintaining your ceramic hob's pristine surface requires gentle care. Never use abrasive scourers or wire wool, as these can permanently damage the surface. Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals and always clean spills promptly to prevent them from burning. Use a specially designed ceramic hob scraper for stubborn marks, and always ensure your cleaning tools are clean and free from grit before use.

How to clean an induction hob

Induction hobs feature a smooth glass surface that's relatively easy to maintain. After use, daily cleaning with a damp cloth will prevent most stains from building up. For more thorough cleaning, ensure the hob is cool, then remove any loose debris with a soft cloth. Apply a specialist induction hob cleaner, wipe with a clean, damp cloth, and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Remember, even though induction hobs only heat the pan, not the surface, food can still burn onto them if spilt.

How to clean a glass hob

Glass hobs require similar care to ceramic and induction hobs. The key is to avoid anything that might scratch the surface while still achieving a thorough clean.

For regular maintenance, a mixture of warm water and mild washing-up liquid works well. For tougher stains, use a cleaner specifically designed for glass hobs. Always finish by buffing with a clean, dry cloth to achieve a streak-free shine.

How to clean a stainless steel hob

Stainless steel hobs need special care to maintain their shine while avoiding scratches. Clean in the direction of the grain using a soft cloth and suitable stainless steel cleaner. Avoid circular motions, which can create visible marks on the surface.

For daily cleaning, warm, soapy water and a microfibre cloth will suffice. Always dry thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water marks.

How to clean hob rings

Whether you have a gas or electric hob, keeping the rings or burners clean is essential for efficient cooking.

How to clean electric hob rings

Electric hob rings need careful attention to maintain their performance. Start by allowing them to cool completely, then wipe with a damp cloth to remove loose debris. For stubborn marks, use a mild cleaning solution, but ensure you dry the rings thoroughly to prevent rusting. Always check the rings are completely dry before their next use.

How to clean gas hob rings

Gas hob rings require regular cleaning to ensure safe and efficient cooking. Remove the pan supports and burner caps once the hob is completely cool. These can be washed in warm, soapy water to remove grease and food debris. For stubborn stains, soak them for 20 minutes before cleaning.

Pay special attention to the burner holes – these need to be kept clear for your hob to work efficiently. A toothpick can help remove any blockages, but take care not to damage the holes. Clean around the burners with a soft cloth and mild detergent, ensuring no water gets into the burner itself.

Once everything is clean, dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling. Make sure the burner caps are correctly positioned for safe operation. Regular cleaning not only keeps your hob looking good but also helps prevent problems with uneven flames or ignition issues.

General hob cleaning tips

Whatever type of hob you have, some universal rules apply.

• Always clean spills promptly to prevent burning
• Wait until the surface is cool before cleaning
• Use appropriate cleaning products for your hob type
• Remember to keep your hob clean underneath, too.

Don't forget to clean your cooker hood regularly as well – check out our guide on how to clean cooker hood filters for more advice.

Choosing the right hob for easy maintenance

If you're in the market for a new hob, consider how easy it will be to clean. Hoover's range of hobs includes both ceramic and gas options designed with easy cleaning in mind.

Our H-HOB 500 Ceramic Hob features a smooth surface that's simple to maintain, while our gas hobs come with removable, dishwasher-safe grids for thorough cleaning. All Hoover hobs are designed to help you spend less time cleaning and more time cooking.

Ready to upgrade your hob? Explore our range of hobs designed for both performance and easy maintenance.