An induction stove is the way to go
Are you planning a kitchen renovation? Before you get started on the renovation, it's important to consider what kind of stove you want. You have several major options when it comes to choosing a stovetop — induction, electric, gas, and glass ceramic. Buying a stove that is difficult to clean can leave you with major headaches. It can be almost impossible to remove built-up grease and grime on some stoves.
The hardest stovetop to clean is a gas model, so if you're looking for something low-maintenance, then you will definitely want to avoid this type of stove. With a gas stove, you have to disassemble the burners and turn off the pilot light to clean them, which can be a pain. In addition, the burners on gas stoves can become clogged with grease or food residue, which can be tricky to remove. So, what stove should you consider if you want something that is a breeze to clean? An induction stove is likely the best option for you.
Induction stoves use electromagnetism to heat pots and pans, cooking food efficiently. Unlike traditional stoves, the burner surface of an induction stove does not get as hot because the heat is directly transferred to the cookware. This feature prevents food from getting cooked onto the stovetop, making cleaning much easier as the food easily comes off. Just be cautious not to touch the burner immediately after use, as it can still retain heat from the cookware.
One drawback of induction stoves is their higher cost compared to electric stoves. While electric stoves at Lowes start at $529, induction stoves are priced at $1,100 or more. If an induction stove is beyond your budget, consider a smooth glass ceramic stove as an alternative. The smooth surface of a glass ceramic cooktop prevents food from falling into the burners, making it easier to clean than traditional electric and gas stoves. However, it is not as effortless as cleaning an induction stove since the glass ceramic cooktop retains more heat, causing food to burn onto the surface and requiring more effort to clean.
Keeping your induction stove clean is essential to maintain its efficiency and appearance. Unlike traditional stoves, induction stoves are easier to clean but require specific care to prevent damage. Start by promptly dealing with spills, especially those containing sugar like melted chocolate, as they can harm the cooktop. For other food particles, you can wait until you're ready to clean the entire stovetop.
Use a soft microfiber sponge or dishcloth to wipe off any food residue. Opt for a specialized cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend Cooktop Cleaner, which you can find at Home Depot. Apply the cleaner in a circular motion, then thoroughly rinse it off with water to prevent staining. Finally, dry the stovetop with a soft kitchen towel to complete the cleaning process.
