Glass stovetops look sleek and modern, but keeping them spotless can be frustrating. Smudges, burnt-on stains, and tiny scratches show up easily — and many cleaning habits actually make the problem worse. Here’s the proper way to clean and maintain your glass stovetop without causing damage.

---

1. Know Your Surface

Glass stovetops are made from a glass-ceramic blend: durable under heat but vulnerable to scratches and clouding. Abrasive cleaners and harsh tools can permanently dull the surface, so gentle methods are a must.

---

2. Stop Using Steel Wool

Steel wool might remove grime on metal pans, but it’s disastrous for glass. It leaves deep scratches where grease and dirt accumulate. Always use soft sponges, microfiber cloths, or non-abrasive scrub pads instead.

---

3. Prep Before You Clean

Make sure the stovetop is completely cool. Wipe away crumbs and loose debris beforehand — dragging any particles across the surface can create scratches.

---

4. Use a Baking Soda Paste

One of the safest and most effective cleaners for glass stovetops is a simple baking soda paste. Mix baking soda with a little water until thick, then spread it over stained areas. It’s mildly abrasive but gentle enough for glass.

---

5. Let It Sit

Give the paste about 15 minutes to break down tough stains and grease. Don’t rush this step — the waiting time is what softens burnt-on residue.

---

6. Wipe Gently

Use a damp, soft cloth to remove the paste with light pressure. Rubbing too hard defeats the purpose of using a gentle cleaner.

---

7. Choose the Right Cloth

Microfiber is best. It lifts residue effectively, won’t scratch the surface, and leaves a streak-free shine. Avoid paper towels and rough fabrics.

---

8. Rinse Thoroughly

After wiping off the paste, go over the stovetop with a clean, damp cloth until no powdery residue remains. Leftover baking soda can create dull spots.

---

9. Finish With a Polish

Buff the stovetop with a dry microfiber cloth in small circular motions. This step adds shine and removes any water marks or streaks.

---

10. For Stubborn Burnt-On Spots

A razor scraper can help — but use it carefully. Hold the blade at a 45-degree angle and lightly scrape only the residue, not the glass. Follow with another gentle clean afterward.

---

11. Keep Up With Routine Care

Wipe spills after each use to prevent hardening. Do a deeper baking-soda clean once a month to keep stains from building up and maintain the glossy finish.