What Exactly Is an Induction Cooktop?

Induction cooktops have gained popularity in recent years due to their modern look and minimal upkeep. These cooktops feature a flat surface made of glass, which is different from traditional electric cooktops with glass tops. While they may appear similar, induction burners operate in a completely different way. Keep reading to discover how induction cooking works.

How Do Induction Cooktops Function?

Although glass-topped electric and induction cooktops might appear similar, their mechanisms are quite different. Both electric and gas stovetops heat cookware using thermal conduction (through an electrical heating element or direct flame), while induction cooktops rely on magnetic waves to heat the cookware through electrical induction.

An induction cooktop has a copper coil beneath its glass surface, generating heat through electromagnetic waves. This heat is transferred directly to the cookware through the glass. It’s more energy-efficient because the cookware absorbs all the generated heat, without any loss to the stovetop surface itself. As a result, most induction cooktops stay cool to the touch beyond the active burner, whereas gas and electric stovetops can become hot across the entire surface even when only one burner is in use.

How to Use an Induction Cooktop

Even though induction cooktops have some unique features, they’re not much different from other stoves when it comes to usage. If you’re accustomed to gas or electric coil stoves, the flat surface might feel unusual at first. But like any stove, the key is ensuring your pan is centered and fully placed on the heating element. (You may have also used portable induction cooktops in the past.)

The main difference with induction cooktops is that they can detect cookware. If there’s no pan on the burner, it won’t turn on. Similarly, if the pan is only partially on the heating element, the burner will remain off. This makes induction cooking a bit more precise, requiring less adjustment of the pan compared to other stoves. For instance, an overly vigorous stir or flip could cause the burner to shut off.

Do Induction Cooktops Need Special Cookware?

Unfortunately, not all cookware is compatible with induction cooktops due to the way the heating process works. Your pots and pans must be made of a ferromagnetic metal, such as cast iron or stainless steel, in order to work with an induction burner. When shopping for cookware, look for labels like "induction ready" or "induction safe". Not sure if your current cookware works? Try placing a small magnet on the bottom—if it sticks, you're good to go.

Generally, stainless steel is the best material for induction cooking, and the good news is that many home cooks already have a few stainless steel pans on hand. Aluminum-clad cookware is also a great option, but keep in mind that all-aluminum pans won’t work. Copper, clay, and glass cookware are also not induction-compatible. Some pans may be made of mostly incompatible materials but feature a stainless steel base, so always double-check before use!

No matter what cookware you’re using, keeping it in good condition is essential for both safety and durability. Be sure to regularly clean the outside and bottom of your pots and pans—tiny bits of food or grit can cause scratches that damage both your cookware and cooktop over time.

Can You Use Cast Iron on an Induction Cooktop?

Yes, you can absolutely use cast iron on induction cooktops. The key is that the cookware must be made entirely of iron. Pans made from composite or mixed materials won't work well with induction burners.

Although cast iron is induction-friendly, it can be a bit risky to use on glass cooktops due to its weight. Always handle your cast iron pans with care when placing or lifting them, as the glass surface on induction cooktops can crack, chip, or shatter if anything is dropped or placed too harshly. Avoid sliding the pan across the cooktop as well; it's best to lift and gently place cast iron cookware to prevent abrasion from the rough contact with the glass.

How to Clean an Induction Cooktop

Regularly cleaning your induction stove after each use is the best way to keep it in top condition, ensuring both safety and aesthetic appeal. Dried or burned-on food can cause scratches and damage the glass surface, shortening the lifespan of your cooktop.

After cooking, let the surface cool and then quickly wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any food particles. For an extra clean finish, you can add a little dish soap to your towel or the soft side of a sponge and give it a thorough wipe.

For stubborn spills or stuck-on food, there are specialty cleaning products designed for this purpose. If you don’t have one, a common kitchen item can do the trick. Lightly moisten the surface, then sprinkle a couple of teaspoons of baking soda on it. Gently scrub with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth, then spray some white vinegar (a spray bottle works great). Once the fizzing slows down, scrub again and wipe clean with a damp cloth, then dry the surface completely.