Induction cooktops provide us with extreme control over the temperature we use when cooking. It is the main reason why they are very popular. Have you ever used an induction cooktop before? Well, induction cooktops are made with glass at the top. The rest of the housing is made using plastic or steel. The outer body is usually very sturdy and strong. It is not easy to scratch the outer body. However, there are always concerns regarding the top surface. So, do induction cooktops scratch easily?
Well, if you drop something on the top surface, you are most likely going to have scratches or even a chip removed.
Similarly, sliding a material that is harder than the material used to make the surface will leave a scratch. Luckily, for us, certain precautions will maintain the integrity of the cooktop and this post will help you learn each of them. So, let’s get to it.
The Composition of Induction Cooktops
Induction cooktops typically consist of a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that houses the induction coils beneath. This surface is known for its durability and heat-resistant properties. However, despite its robust construction, many users worry about the potential for scratches, especially when using metal cookware.
What would Cause Scratches on the Cooktop?
What can cause scratching to induction cooktops? You can easily scratch an induction cooktop with a wide range of items, as explained below.
The first thing that can cause induction cooktop scratches is a tool with a rough bottom. You can easily cause these scratches with tools or utensils made from cast iron. Cast iron pans are very likely to be uneven or even have bumps at the bottom. Regardless, they are the perfect tools to use on an induction cooktop because they work perfectly for the induction process.
If you want to avoid scratching the surface of your cooktop, simply gently place the pans and pots on the surface. Avoid sliding or moving them across the top because they will cause some scratches when moved.
You can also scratch the surface with sharp metal including knives and forks. If you need to use these utensils, simply use a spoon rest.
Using the proper cleaning supplies and conforming to the right care guidelines will ensure that your cooktop’s integrity is maintained. You can simply scrub a gas stovetop or an electric burner with abrasive cleaners or using scourers. However, when it comes to induction cooktops, you can easily scratch and damage the cooktop.
You should avoid using any uneven, abrasive, or cleaners with some sharp metal parts to clean the top. They will leave either a single visible scratch or several small ones. The pads that are used for cleaning stovetops, frying pans, pots, or even sinks function well to scratch the top layer that has built upon the surface.
How to Identify the Scratches
There are very simple ways of identifying the scratches.
Feeling the surface with your fingers will easily identify large scratches. First, you have to feel the top with complete care. If there is a scratch, you should feel it easily as an interruption of the surface’s smoothness. This method will work well to feel the deep scratches. You can also feel chips that might have fallen from a pot, pan, or any cooking utensil.
If the scratches are smaller, your fingers might not find them as easily as they would larger scratches. Therefore, you should rub the top surface with a microfiber cloth. You will notice that you cannot wipe off the scratches the way you would wipe off a line of dirt or smudge.
To be completely sure if there are scratches, simply spray a cleanser on the surface. If the cleanser forms a pool, it might be on a chip that might have fallen off or a scratch.
Also, Read: Nuwave Induction Cooktop Review
Preventing Scratches on the Induction Cooktop
So, how do I keep my induction cooktop from scratching? The first rule to prevent scratches on an induction cooktop is to use it gently while taking the right precautions. Keep reading to learn how to prevent scratches on the induction cooktop.
First, make sure that you place any pan or pot on the induction surface gently. Avoid moving the pot or pan by sliding them across the top surface. Instead, pick the utensils up and place them in the new position gently.
You should be cautious to use only the pans and pots that have completely smooth bottoms.
When you are setting the utensils on the surface, or when using them for preparations, you should not allow the sharp objects to touch the surface directly. Instead, you should choose a soft wooden chopping board. You can also use a spoon rest instead. However, make sure that the spoon rest also has a smooth bottom.
If you restrict yourself to utensils made with plastic or silicon, you will be able to avoid scratches completely.
Dealing with Scratches
Even when you are completely careful, you may still have some scratches caused by accidents. Annoying, isn’t it?
Not to worry. When you find such a scratch, you can deal with it by possibly removing it, or reducing the damage.
If you want to remove the scratches, simply make a mixture of baking soda and water. Make sure that the texture is fairly smooth.
Apply the paste to the scratched surface in small circles and use another clean cloth to remove the paste that remains on the surface. You can also choose to use a metal polishing cream or a cleaning paste. Use the same process with baking soda.
This process will remove the smaller scratches from your cooktop surface. The larger scratches might be persistent.
Maintaining Your Induction Cooktop
To ensure your induction cooktop remains scratch-free and pristine, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Wipe the cooktop surface after each use with a soft cloth or sponge to remove any spills or residues.
- Avoiding Abrasive Cleaners: Opt for gentle cleaning solutions specifically formulated for glass-ceramic surfaces to prevent scratches.
- Careful Cookware Handling: Handle cookware with care, avoiding dragging or sliding them across the surface.
Conclusion
You must care for your induction cooktop in any way possible. If the integrity is maintained, the functionality will be maintained as well. You should also make sure to avoid using any rough objects as explained above. If possible, communicate with your family about caring for the cooktop.
Related:
- Can You Use a Wok On An Electric Stove?
- What Is A Hot Plate Used For?
- Are All Ceramic Plates Oven Safe?
- Are IKEA Induction Cooktops any Good? – Detailed Review
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