How to Clean a Ceramic Hob: Challenges and Tips

A ceramic hob adds a sleek, modern look to your kitchen and provides fantastic heat transmission. However, keeping it clean without damaging the surface can be tricky. Burnt-on food, ring marks, scratches, and white stains can make your once-glossy hob look dull and tired.

At Ovenclean, we’re experts in hob and oven cleaning. Whether you’re maintaining your ceramic hob between professional cleans or dealing with stubborn stains, this guide will show you the best way to clean your ceramic hob, safely and effectively.

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Why It’s Important to Clean Your Ceramic Hob Regularly

Keeping your ceramic hob clean isn’t just about appearance. Regular cleaning helps to:

Maintain efficient heat transmission for faster cooking.
Prevent stubborn stains and burnt-on food from becoming permanent.
Avoid unpleasant odours and residue that can affect the taste of your food.
Prolong the life of your hob and reduce the risk of scratches or surface damage.

A few minutes of upkeep after each use can make a huge difference, saving you time and stress in the long run.

Common Challenges When Cleaning Ceramic Hobs

Cleaning ceramic hobs requires care due to their smooth but delicate surface. Some challenges include:

Scratches: Ceramic is prone to scratching, especially from scouring pads or abrasive cleaners.
Burnt-on stains: If spills aren’t wiped up quickly, they can bake onto the surface and become hard to remove.
White marks or residue: Often caused by harsh chemicals or limescale build-up.
Printed symbols fading: Strong or abrasive cleaners can wear away hob markings.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Ceramic Hob Without Scratching

Here’s a simple and safe way to clean a ceramic hob, even with stubborn burnt-on marks:

You’ll Need:

Warm water
Washing-up liquid
A soft J-cloth or microfiber cloth
A specialist ceramic hob scraper (angled blade)
Hob cleaning fluid (non-abrasive)
Paper towel or kitchen roll

Cleaning Steps:

Let the hob cool completely before starting.
Wipe away loose crumbs and debris with a damp cloth.
Apply warm soapy water and let it sit for 5–10 minutes on any spills or grease.
Use a hob scraper at a 30° angle to gently remove burnt-on marks.
Apply a small amount of hob cleaner directly onto tough stains.
Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes to break down grease and grime.
Wipe clean with a soft cloth, avoiding harsh scrubbing.
Buff with a dry microfiber cloth to restore the hob’s original shine.

Pro Tip: Clean your hob after every use to prevent marks from becoming permanent.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Ceramic Hob Looking New

Use the right pans: Avoid dragging cookware across the surface.
Avoid sugary spills: These burn quickly and can cause pitting if not cleaned right away.
Don’t let spills sit: Wipe up as soon as the hob cools down.
Avoid abrasive cleaners: Creams, powders, and pads can scratch and dull the finish.

Recommended Products

Look for products specifically designed for ceramic hobs. These are usually labelled “safe for glass and ceramic” and are non-abrasive. Avoid ammonia-based or caustic cleaners unless approved by the hob manufacturer.

FAQs: How to Clean a Ceramic Hob

How to get ring marks off a ceramic hob?

Use a ceramic hob cleaner and a soft cloth. For stubborn rings, apply cleaner and leave for a few minutes, then use a scraper at a shallow angle.

How do you get burn marks off a ceramic hob?

Burn marks can often be removed with a ceramic scraper followed by a specialist hob cleaner.

What is the best thing to clean ceramic hobs with?

A soft microfiber cloth, warm soapy water, and a hob-specific cleaning solution are best. A ceramic scraper helps with tough stains.

What not to use on a ceramic hob?

Avoid:

Steel wool or scouring pads
Abrasive creams
Sharp metal tools (except hob scrapers)
Bleach or caustic chemicals

How to get white marks off a ceramic hob?

White marks are often limescale or cleaner residue. Use a vinegar-water mix or a limescale remover approved for ceramic hobs.

Can you get rid of scratches on a ceramic hob?

Light surface scratches can sometimes be polished out with specialist hob polish. Deep scratches, however, are usually permanent.

How do you get baked grease off a ceramic hob?

Apply a generous amount of hob cleaner, let it sit, then use a scraper to remove the softened grease. Wipe clean and repeat if needed.

Do ceramic hob scrapers work?

Yes, when used correctly at a 30° angle. They are designed to remove tough, stuck-on grime without damaging the ceramic surface.

Want a Professional Finish? Leave It to Ovenclean

While regular cleaning keeps your ceramic hob fresh, a professional clean every six months ensures a deeper, more thorough clean.

At Ovenclean, our expert technicians use a no-added-caustic cleaning system, meaning no damage to delicate ceramic surfaces, no nasty fumes or smells and you can use your hob straight after cleaning

If you would like a professional sparkle to your ceramic hob and the rest of your cooker, call us on 0800 840 7127, or complete our online form for your free quote.