Induction Cookware: Safe For Glass Stoves?

Induction cooktops are becoming increasingly popular, with home chefs praising their energy efficiency, safety, and sleek design. Induction cooking is very different from conventional gas or electric cooking, and only certain types of pans will work on an induction cooktop. So, what cookware is compatible with induction cooktops, and are they safe for glass top stoves?

Stainless steel is the best material for glass-top stoves

Glass-top stoves are either electric or induction, with both using electricity to generate heat. When it comes to choosing the right cookware for glass-top stoves, you need to consider the material that won't scratch the surface, as well as the weight and stability of the cookware.

The ideal cookware for a glass-top stove has a smooth surface and is not too heavy. A clank of a heavy pot or pan can easily scratch the glass surface. Therefore, stainless steel is the perfect choice as it is a popular cookware metal that is durable and hard-wearing.

In addition to stainless steel, aluminium or copper cookware can also be used on glass-top stoves. However, they may leave residue on the glass surface and are therefore best used as core layers under a stainless steel exterior.

It is important to avoid certain materials when cooking on a glass-top stove. Cast iron, stoneware, and other glass or ceramic cookware can easily scratch or even crack the glass surface. These materials are typically rough and can cause scratches when dragged across the smooth glass surface.

Induction cooktops work through electromagnetic induction, generating an electromagnetic field similar to that of a microwave. Only magnetic cookware will work with induction cooktops. Magnetic cookware includes those made of ferrous metals (metals containing iron) such as cast iron, carbon steel, and certain types of magnetic stainless steel.

Glass-top stoves require flat-bottomed pots and pans

Glass-top stoves are either electric or induction, but both use electricity to generate heat. When choosing pots and pans to use on a glass-top stove, it's important to select the right material to prevent scratching the surface and to ensure even heat distribution. Stainless steel is the best option as it is durable, distributes heat evenly, and won't scratch the glass surface. It also has enough weight to remain stable while cooking.

Aluminum and copper pans are suitable as well due to their excellent heat conduction capabilities. However, they may leave residue on the glass cooktop, so it's best to use them as the core layer under a stainless steel exterior. This combination of metals creates superior cookware that is gentle on all cooktops.

It is important to avoid certain materials when cooking on a glass-top stove. Cast iron, stoneware, and other glass or ceramic cookware can easily scratch or even crack the glass surface. These materials are typically rough and can cause scratches when dragged across the smooth glass surface, especially when the pan is full of food. Additionally, cast iron takes a while to heat up and retains high temperatures for an extended period, which can cause the cooktop to overheat and potentially shut down.

When using a glass-top stove, it is also crucial to use flat-bottomed pots and pans. The bottom of the pan needs to be in full contact with the glass surface for optimal heat transfer. Non-flat pans may not only result in uneven cooking but can also crack the glass. Therefore, it is essential to choose pots and pans with wide, flat bottoms that sit securely on the glass stove.

Cast iron, stoneware, and other ceramics are not ideal for glass-top stoves

Glass-top stoves are usually either electric or induction, and both use electricity to generate heat. While glass-top stoves offer a modern appearance and easy cleanup, the glass can be scratched and discoloured. Therefore, cast iron, stoneware, and other ceramics are not ideal for glass-top stoves.

Cast iron is heavy, and when filled with water or soup, it puts a lot of weight on the glass cooktop. Even if the top can handle the weight, it can easily crack if you drop the cast-iron pot while lifting it. Cast iron also takes a while to heat up and then retains high heat for a long time. This sustained high temperature can cause the entire cooktop to overheat and potentially turn off.

Cast iron cookware is also usually not perfectly flat, meaning it may take longer to heat and cause uneven heating. This can increase cooking time and reduce the life of the cooktop's heating element. The rough finish of cast iron can also scratch the surface of a glass cooktop.

Stoneware and other ceramics are also not ideal for glass-top stoves as they are typically rough and can easily scratch the surface, especially when dragged across the smooth glass while full of food.

If you want to use cast iron on a glass-top stove, it is recommended to use modern cast iron cookware with a smooth, sleek finish to reduce the potential for scratching. It is also important to place cast iron gently on the cooktop and lift it rather than slide it when adjusting its position.

Glass-ceramic induction cooktops are easy to clean and safer to use

Glass-ceramic induction cooktops are a sleek and modern addition to any kitchen. They offer a range of benefits, from improved energy efficiency to faster cooking times and safer operation. But one of their standout features is how easy they are to clean and maintain.

The smooth, flat surface of glass-ceramic induction cooktops is a breeze to wipe down. Unlike traditional gas or electric cooktops, spills and splatters don't burn onto the surface, so you won't be spending time scrubbing away at stubborn, burnt-on residue. Instead, a simple cleaning routine with a soft cloth and gentle cleaning solutions will keep your induction cooktop looking like new.

To clean your glass-ceramic induction cooktop, first, allow it to cool down. Then, use a safe cooktop scraping tool to gently remove any leftover residues, being careful to keep the scraper flat against the surface to avoid scratches. Once your cooktop is entirely cool, add a safe cleaning solution, such as a specialised cooktop cleaner, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then wipe it down with a soft cloth in a circular motion. Finish by buffing your cooktop with a dry microfiber cloth to a sparkling shine.

Another advantage of glass-ceramic induction cooktops is their safety. Induction cooktops use electromagnetic energy to generate heat directly in the pan, so the cooktop itself doesn't get hot. This not only makes cooking more efficient and responsive to temperature changes but also significantly reduces the risk of burns. You can touch the cooktop without burning yourself, and there are no open flames or hot coils to worry about.

In terms of cookware, it's important to use pots and pans that are compatible with induction cooktops. Look for ferromagnetic materials such as cast iron, stainless steel, or enameled cast iron. You can test your cookware by holding a magnet to the bottom—if it sticks, it will work on an induction cooktop. Stainless steel is a great option for glass-ceramic cooktops as it's durable, stable, and won't scratch the surface.

While glass-ceramic induction cooktops may be more expensive than traditional cooktops, their superior performance, ease of cleaning, and safety features make them a worthwhile investment for any home cook.

Cookware for induction cooktops must be made of magnetic materials

Induction cooktops use electromagnetic induction to generate heat. When the cooktop is turned on, a coil under the glass-ceramic surface generates an electromagnetic field, similar to that in a microwave. While the actual coil and cooktop don't get hot, any magnetic cookware placed on top of the surface will react to the electric currents and heat up. Therefore, cookware for induction cooktops must be made of magnetic materials.

To determine whether a pot or pan is compatible with an induction cooktop, you can perform a simple test by holding a magnet to the bottom of the cookware. If the magnet clings to the underside, the cookware will work on an induction cooktop. If the magnet grabs the pan softly, you may not have much success with it on your cooktop. If there is no pull on the magnet, it doesn't contain the right metals and will not generate heat.

Cookware made of cast iron, enameled cast iron, and many types of stainless steel are induction compatible. However, it's important to note that not all stainless steel cookware will work with induction cooktops. Stainless steel can be made with a variety of metals, and a high nickel content will block the magnetic field. Therefore, it's crucial to test stainless steel cookware with a magnet before using it on an induction cooktop.

Aluminum, all-copper, or glass cookware will not work on induction cooktops unless they have a layer on the bottom with magnetic properties. Manufacturers have started adding a magnetic layer to the bottom of these pans, but older, non-magnetic pans will not work.

Frequently asked questions