Electrical Safety
For maximum safety, unplug your hot plate before you begin cleaning it. An unplugged hot plate will not start to heat while you are cleaning it. Unplugging the hot plate also eliminates the danger of electrocution from handling a live appliance with wet hands.
Removing Spills and Particles
To remove spills of thick liquids such as pea soup or solid particles such as meat or vegetable residue, clean the hot plate with a slightly damp, old toothbrush. Clean the toothbrush as you remove particles until it is completely clean and you are cleaning the coils with only water. Clean spilled liquid with a lint-free cloth or a sponge. Check the hot plate to make sure the cleaning cloth or sponge does not leave behind fibers or pieces. If you see any fibers or pieces, remove them.
Cleaning Under the Coil
The coil of the hot plate is attached to a hinge that allows you to raise the heating surface and clean underneath it. Lift the coil and use a damp cloth or sponge to remove any spills or particles that have collected in the frame of the hot plate.