Step 1: Turn off the stove.
Ensure that the cooktop is set to off and completely cool to the touch. Using a dishcloth or paper towel, gently wipe away any loose debris or liquid from the surface. Do not attempt to buff or scratch off any hard-to-remove grit; leave this stubborn residue to the hardworking homemade cleaner you will prepare later.
Step 2: Submerge rags in hot, soapy water.
Put on the rubber gloves so you don’t scald your hands when preparing the cleaning solution. Fill a large bowl, bucket, or the kitchen sink with hot tap water. To the hot water, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid. Mix the dishwashing liquid with the water until the solution is frothy. Submerge the rags in the bowl, bucket, or sink, and allow it to soak up the hot, soapy water.
Step 3: Cover the cooktop with baking soda and hot rags.
Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda over the surface of the cooktop. Remove the wet rag from the cleaning solution and wring out half of the excess moisture. The rag should be wet but not dripping. Set aside the remaining cleaning solution, but do not discard it. Cover the entire cooktop with the rags, and let them sit for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the baking soda to settle into debris on the cooktop. The wet rags will create a moist environment that will prevent the baking soda from drying on the cooktop.
Step 4: Scrub the cooktop with baking soda.
Lift the rag from the cooktop and submerge it once more in the cleaning solution. Remove the rag and again wring out half of the excess water.
Finish by gently wiping the rag over the entire cooktop using small, circular motions. The rag and the baking soda will together act as a gentle scrub, dislodging and sloughing off any debris without damaging the delicate surface of the cooktop. Now that the cleaning solution has done its duty, you can pour the remainder down the drain.
Step 5: Buff and polish the glass.
Soak a clean dish sponge in cold water, and lightly squeeze out the excess water. Wipe the nonabrasive side of the sponge over the cooktop to clear away any lingering debris or baking soda. When the cooktop is free of residue, use the microfiber cloth to buff the cooktop and give it a sophisticated polish. Work a splash of vinegar into the cloth for a more sparkling, streak-free shine.
Going forward, aim to wipe your glass cooktop after each use rather than at lengthier intervals. This will spare you the extra time and effort of a deep clean, and preserve the spotless finish of your cooktop year-round.
