Glass stovetops—whether induction or ceramic—look great when they’re clean, but they show every mistake. Scratches, cloudy stains, and burnt-on residue can make the surface look worse than it actually is. The first thing to understand is that “dirty” and “damaged” are often confused. Many marks that look permanent are just baked-on grease or mineral deposits, and those can usually be removed with the right approach.

Start with a proper clean before assuming the worst. Let the surface cool completely, then wipe it down with a soft cloth and a bit of dish soap. For stubborn residue, apply a paste of baking soda and water or use a cooktop cleaner made for glass surfaces. A plastic scraper (used gently at a low angle) can lift burnt-on spots without scratching. Avoid steel wool, rough pads, or harsh chemicals—they’ll make things worse fast. Once clean, you’ll be able to see what’s actually scratched versus what was just stuck on.

For light scratches, there’s no true “repair,” but you can make them less visible. A ceramic cooktop polish or repair cream can reduce the appearance of fine marks by smoothing the surface slightly. Deep scratches, chips, or cracks are different—they can weaken the glass and, in some cases, become a safety issue. Those aren’t worth DIY fixes; if the damage is significant or you notice uneven heating, it’s better to have it checked or consider replacement.

The real solution is prevention going forward. Always lift pots instead of sliding them, and use cookware with smooth, flat bottoms. Clean spills quickly—especially sugary ones, which can bond to the glass when heated. Regular, gentle cleaning keeps buildup from turning into permanent-looking stains. With a bit of care, even a stovetop that’s seen some wear can stay functional and look far better than you’d expect.