Discover why induction hobs are so ideal for compact kitchens
The Whirlpool SmartCook induction hob (SMP 778/C/NE/IXL) is inset into the worktop
Induction hobs take up less worktop space
It may seem petty, but every little detail matters when you are trying to make a small home look larger and function at its best. So, if you're in the market for a new hob, go for one that is inset into your worktop and lies completely flat. Traditional gas or electric hobs that are raised up above the worktop make your kitchen feel that little bit more crowded.
For this reason, induction hobs are best for very small kitchens. This Whirlpool SmartCook induction hob (SMP 778/C/NE/IXL) includes 6TH SENSE® technology that provides 63 cooking combinations and its FlexiFull surface means that you can cook anywhere on the hob's surface.
Induction hobs do take a bit of getting used to, but once you're familiar with their workings you will find them as easy to use as a traditional hob, and you may find them more flexible to cook with too. Plus, as they have no nooks and crannies to dig into and collect grime, they are much easier to keep clean than standard gas alternatives, just wipe them over with a cloth when cool.
For this reason, induction hobs are best for very small kitchens. This Whirlpool SmartCook induction hob (SMP 778/C/NE/IXL) includes 6TH SENSE® technology that provides 63 cooking combinations and its FlexiFull surface means that you can cook anywhere on the hob's surface.
Induction hobs do take a bit of getting used to, but once you're familiar with their workings you will find them as easy to use as a traditional hob, and you may find them more flexible to cook with too. Plus, as they have no nooks and crannies to dig into and collect grime, they are much easier to keep clean than standard gas alternatives, just wipe them over with a cloth when cool.
Cooke & Lewis 29cm Induction Hob, B&Q
Slimline induction hob
If you've got a really weeny kitchen, there is no need to go for a traditional 60cm-size hob. Look for a slimline induction hob with just two cooking rings. Unless you are a professional cook, it's rare that you would use more than two saucepans at a time, so for everyday cooking a slimline induction hob is ideal.
A portable single induction hob
You can even get a portable single induction hob. These are just a little bigger than an electric scale. Pull one out of your kitchen cupboard and pop it on to your worktop whenever you fancy doing some stove-top cooking. This Amzchef single induction hob is super thin and comes with a ten-point power and temperature control, touch sensor, safety lock and a three-hour timer.
GoodHome Bamia 77cm Smart Induction Hob/Extractor, B&Q
Induction hob with integrated extractor
You can now save even more space by getting an induction hob with an integrated extractor. In the GoodHome Bamia model, shown above, the extractor is situated in the middle of the hob and doesn't take up too much space beneath it either. It means that you can keep the space above the hob clear, which will make your kitchen feel more spacious too.
Find out more about the most practical and stylish extractor fans for small kitchens
Find out more about the most practical and stylish extractor fans for small kitchens
Caple C950i induction hob, Appliance City
A frameless induction hob
And, how cool is this hob? New to the UK, this Caple C950i frameless induction hob, features four separate induction plates and a control panel, and these can be fitted in flush to your worktop. It gives you more worktop space and, as a result, will make your kitchen feel larger too. Win win. There is no doubt about it, induction hobs are best for small kitchens.
