Moving to a new country means exciting culinary adventures, but it can also come with adjustments in the kitchen. If you’re an Indian expat new to Belgium, you might find yourself transitioning from traditional gas-based cooking to a ceramic or induction hob.
While these hobs may seem a bit unfamiliar at first, they offer many benefits like fast heating, precision temperature control, and easy cleaning. A clean hob is essential for a few key reasons:
- Hygiene: Bacteria and food residue can build up, so a clean hob promotes a healthy kitchen.
- Aesthetics: A good-looking hob can make a big difference to your whole kitchen.
- Protecting Your Investment: A well-cared-for hob will keep working smoothly and prevent unnecessary damages. Plus, a clean hob can help ensure you get your rental deposit back!
Let’s learn how to master cleaning your ceramic/induction hob.
Requirements before you begin the cleaning:
- A cleaning liquid : Buy special hob cleaning liquid from the market (brico/colryut/cora/AH) or online.
- A ceramic scraper : for the tough stains which have burnt on top of the hob. Buy this online from amazon or bol.com
Step-by-Step Guide to Hob Cleaning
- A Note on Temperatures: Before you start, ensure the hob is completely cool to prevent burns or damage.
- Initial Cleaning: Use a damp cloth or paper towel to tackle loose crumbs and spills.
- Cleaning Power: Opt for a cleaning solution designed for ceramic/induction hobs. If you prefer a DIY approach, make a solution of baking soda and white vinegar. Here’s a highly-rated hob cleaning liquid on Amazon
- Let the Solution Work: Apply the cleaning solution and let it sit for a few minutes to soften any stuck-on food.
- Tackling Toughness: For stubborn stains, you may need a specialized scraper for ceramic and induction hobs to avoid scratches. Here’s an option on Amazon
- The Final Wipe: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the solution and residue away. Then, buff it dry with a microfiber cloth to achieve a spotless shine.
Key Tips for Indian Expats
- Prevention is Better: The best way to simplify hob cleaning is to wipe it down after cooking. This will stop food and grease from hardening.
- Gentle Cleaning: Don’t use harsh scrubbers or abrasive cleaners.
- Act Quickly on Spills: Spills and splatters are much easier to clean when fresh – don’t let them sit and harden.
Conclusion
With a little understanding and these simple steps, you can keep your ceramic/induction hob clean and functional. Remember, a clean hob is essential for good hygiene, a beautiful kitchen, and a happy landlord!
Let me know if you’d like any additions or changes to this customized version.