The expert-approved way to clean your glass stove top

A glass cooktop can look sleek and modern—until last night’s pasta sauce decides to bubble over. Unlike gas burners, there are no grates to catch the mess, which means every splash shows. The good news ? With the right approach, keeping that shiny surface sparkling clean is easier than you think.

We pulled together expert advice from Jacqueline Stein, a professional cleaning specialist with Home Reimagined in Austin, Texas. From how often to clean to the safest products to use, here’s everything you need to know about caring for a glass cooktop.

How often to clean your glass cooktop

According to Stein, the secret to a spotless surface is consistency. She recommends wiping the cooktop with a soft cloth after every use—once it has fully cooled. This small step prevents food residue from hardening and keeps deep cleanings to a minimum.

If you cook daily, plan a more thorough cleaning session about once a week. “It might sound like a chore, but you can multitask,” Stein says. “Let the cleaner sit while you wipe down the counters or organize the fridge. That way your stove is ready for your next cooking adventure.”

Personally, I learned this the hard way. I ignored a spill of caramelized sugar once, and by the next day it had turned into something resembling cement. A quick daily wipe could have saved me half an hour of scraping.

Things to consider before cleaning

Before diving in, keep these precautions in mind to avoid damage or injury.

First, always wait until the cooktop is completely cool. Trying to clean it while hot can cause burns and make the cleaner evaporate too quickly, leaving streaks behind.

Second, choose the right cleaner. Avoid harsh abrasives like steel wool or scouring pads. These can scratch the surface and dull the shine. Instead, go with a glass cooktop cleaner that’s formulated specifically for this purpose.

Third, use the right cloth. Soft microfiber or cotton works best and won’t leave scratches. Be careful with sponges—only use the non-scratch type.

Finally, don’t overdo it with water or cleaning spray. Too much liquid can seep into the edges and cause problems. Stein recommends using minimal moisture and following up with a dry cloth to wipe away any excess.

What you’ll need

To keep your glass surface in top condition, it helps to have a small cleaning kit ready. Here are the essentials:

• Mild dish soap like Dawn or a gentle multi-purpose cleaner
• A bucket of hot water
• Glass cooktop cleaner and polish (Weiman is a popular brand)
• Clean microfiber or cotton cloths
• A soft brush or sponge
• A razor blade scraper for stubborn spots
• Glass cleaner without ammonia or a spray bottle filled with white vinegar
• Paper towels or lint-free cloths

Most of these are probably already in your home, which makes the process quick and inexpensive.

Step-by-step cleaning guide

Ready to get that glass cooktop gleaming again ? Here’s the routine Stein recommends :

Step 1 : Remove debris
Clear away any food crumbs, dust, or loose particles.

Step 2 : Wipe with warm soapy water
Dampen a cloth in hot water mixed with dish soap. Wipe the surface to loosen food residue and grease.

Step 3 : Scrape carefully
For burnt-on spots, gently use a razor blade scraper at a 45-degree angle. Don’t press too hard—let the tool do the work.

Step 4: Apply cooktop cleaner
Spread the cleaner or polish evenly with a paper towel or soft cloth. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes depending on how dirty the surface is.

Step 5 : Scrub lightly
Using a damp cloth, sponge, or soft brush, buff the surface in circular motions. Focus on stained areas but avoid heavy pressure.

Step 6 : Wipe clean
Rinse your cloth, wring it out, and wipe away any cleaner residue.

Step 7 : Dry completely
Use a clean microfiber towel to dry the cooktop. This prevents streaks and water spots.

Step 8 : Repeat if necessary
For really stubborn stains, repeat the process until the glass is clear.

Step 9 : Polish for shine
Finish with a streak-free glass cleaner or a 50/50 vinegar-water mix. Buff with a lint-free cloth or paper towel until the cooktop gleams.

Keeping up with regular care not only makes your stove look brand-new but also extends its life. Over time, scratches and residue can build up if neglected, making it harder to clean. A little effort on a daily and weekly basis pays off in the long run.

So, are you team “wipe it down every night” or “wait until it’s really dirty”? Everyone has their own cleaning style, but Stein’s advice is clear : the sooner you tackle spills, the easier it is.

What about you—do you have any tried-and-true tricks for cleaning a glass stovetop ? Share your hacks, stories, or struggles in the comments, and pass this along to anyone you know who’s still fighting with stubborn stains. Your next meal might be messy, but your cooktop doesn’t have to be.