New Cooker - Cleaning Of

ceridwen

I need to buy a new cooker - and want to ensure it doesnt go the same way as the current one (ie horrible, rusty hotplates). My current one is those modern solid hotplates - so I am obviously not going to get one of them again!

As those ones with the "spirally" type hotplates dont seem to be made anymore (darn it) - then that leaves me with having to get a ceramic hotplate type one (as that cant go rusty on me!).

Can OS'ers tell me how to clean ceramic hotplate ones with the minimum of effort (dont forget my known hatred for housework - see my Waynetta Slob "thread" !). I'm hoping its possible to just give the top a quick swipe with my cloth when doing the washing-up - and maybe a bit of intermittent "stronger" cleaning with something non-chemical (as am busy using up all chemical cleaners en route to a move to lemon juice/bicarb/ etc type cleaners).

jackieb

I use Astonish paste from the 99p shop. I've used it on my ceramic hob since I got it a couple of years ago. My mum's used it on hers for about 12 years and no scratches, and it polishes off fine.

I've often seen people's ceramic hobs with black stuff on them. You don't get this with the Astonish. I've used cleaners specifically for hobs but don't find them nearly as good.

ceridwen

Thanks for quick reply - what is "Astonish" paste made of? - is it natural-type stuff (ie non-chemical)? Any idea where else one can get it - as we dont have a 99p shop here?

I am hoping its "natural" - as I'm doing my best to reduce the amount of chemicals that come into my home in any form.

jackieb

It says it's 'eco-friendly'. http://www.naturalcollection.com/natural-products/Incredibly-Versatile-Cleaning-Paste.aspx

I know Betterware sometimes sell it but it costs about £2.50 (I think). Don't order from that site up there ^^. It costs £4.50 delivery!

Magentasue

I just use hot soapy water to wipe mine over. For spills I use whatever Flash type cleaner I have to hand. I love ceramic hobs. Mine looks new after five year daily use and it's extra worktop space when you're not using it.

Mine is half halogen and half induction. The induction is very good - much quicker to heat up than the ordinary 'rings' and goes cold instantly. Can't use my pressure cooker on it but my other pans are OK. Worth considering if you're buying new.

ceridwen

What are "halogen" and "induction" ?

susank

Lakeland ltd sell astonish and a hob cleaning kit which scrapes off any burnt on stuff - mine is still like new 2 years later.

Magentasue

ceridwen wrote: »

What are "halogen" and "induction" ?

As I understand, the least expensive ceramic hobs use radiant, more expensive are halogen and then induction. Radiant are least efficient and therefore cost more to run. The induction are least expensive to use because they heat up so quickly.

Ours only has two induction 'rings' but they're the ones we used all the time. We got ours as 'graded goods' (no packaging and a mark at the back) and would buy the same again.

ceridwen

Working out whats what thanks to replies.

I am also wondering what make to get - I need a 50 whatever-it-is width one (small kitchen!) - which restricts my choice. My priority is to get a reliable one - I would rather pay £100 more if I have to and know I wont have any trouble - but no point in throwing money away needlessly.

Any recommendations as to a reliable make - and what sort of price I need to pay?

jackieb

I have a similar version to this but in 60cm and stainless steel. Mine is 2-3 years old and never had a problem - also easy to clean. My mum has an older version of mine and we both love them. You can use only one side of the grill if you want. There's a top conventional oven and the main oven is a fan one. The inner glass on the doors slides out and is very easy to keep clean.

http://www.hotpoint.co.uk/macro/product.d2w/report?typeref=17&prnbr=EW52

ceridwen

hmmmmm.... that one doesnt look bad - worth having a look. On the list to study then ...