Cleaning the kitchen isn’t usually at the top of anyone’s list of enjoyable household jobs, like when it comes to the cooker hob. Keeping your hob clean isn’t just about maintaining its sleek and stylish appearance; it’s also vital for hygiene and performance. Food spills and residue can become a breeding ground for bacteria over time, potentially posing a health risk. Regular cleaning ensures that your hob remains hygienic and safe to use.

Plus, built-up stains can affect the heat distribution of the hob, leading to less efficient cooking. The good news is that with the right tools and a bit of know-how, maintaining the pristine look of your hob doesn't have to be a chore. It can be quite straightforward and done in no time at all, with no need for cleaning sprays.

A cleaning influencer behind the Instagram page @thecleangroup has shared the easiest way to clean a hob, which she demonstrated in under 15 seconds.

The caption of the post reads: “You can remove even the worst burnt-on hob stains without cleaning sprays, abrasive pastes or harsh chemicals, and you can do it without scrubbing.”

To do so, the expert pointed out that “all you need is this one powerhouse cleaning secret”.

It is the “unsung hero” behind many hacks. The cleaner said: “You’ll find it in most cleaning cupboards. We just underestimate its versatility. It is a damp melamine sponge.”

They are not just for scuff marks on walls and trainers. The expert said: “A damp melamine sponge will effortlessly remove stubborn burnt-on stains on your hob instantly.”

For this method, start by gently brushing off any excess food before dampening the melamine sponge under warm water and squeezing out excess moisture.

If you’re looking to “boost the cleaning power” of the sponge, you can add a drop of washing-up liquid at this point.

Then, use light pressure to wipe the stain in circular motions. For “really stubborn stains”, you can sprinkle a little baking soda directly onto the burnt residue.

After, wipe away the residue with a damp microfibre cloth before buffing the hob with a dry microfibre cloth for a streak-free finish.