Cooktops are crucial for most meals. Manufacturers have told Consumer Reports that roughly 80 percent of cooking occurs on burners or heating elements as opposed to in the oven. So when your cooktop ...

Use a cooktop-safe cleaner. These are formulated to break down grease without scratching. Keep the bottom of cookware clean.

CR’s interactive tool leverages product costs, depreciation rates, and survey data to help you make the right choice. Plus, expert advice on what to do next. Cooktops are crucial for most meals.