Anyone have a fix for rubbed off numbers on an LG induction stove?

That's a frustrating situation but it happens more often than you'd think because modern manufacturers stopped embossing or etching the metal years ago to save on production costs. Now, it’s usually just a silk-screened ink sitting on top of the finish, and any heavy-duty solvent will eat through it in seconds. Since you’ve allready lost the markings, your best bet for a clean look is a set of aftermarket vinyl decals. You can find kits specifically for major brands like LG on sites like StoveDecals or even eBay. These are designed to withstand heat and light cleaning better than a DIY paint job. The trick to making them look like they belong there is the prep work. You need to clean the surface with isopropyl alcohol first so there’s absolutely zero grease residue left, then use a pair of tweezers to line them up. If you try to eyeball it and press them on with your fingers, they’ll likely end up crooked or with bubbles, wich is what gives it that "toddler" look you're worried about. I’d definately stay away from the paint pen idea. Even the fine-tip ones tend to bleed on stainless steel because the surface is so smooth, and it usually ends up looking messy. If you’re really worried about resale value and the decals don't satisfy you, look for a **control panel overlay** rather than the entire electronic assembly. Sometimes you can find the decorative top layer as a seperate part number for significantly less than the $300+ full board, though you have to dig through the parts diagrams to find the specific sticker layer.

In the meantime, you'll probably find that you don't acutally need the numbers for daily cooking. Most of these ranges follow a standard arc where High is the far limit and Medium is the vertical midpoint. You’ll develop the muscle memory for your favorite settings pretty fast. Just be sure to tell anyone else using the stove where the settings are so they don't accidentally leave a burner on blast when they meant to simmer.

I’m honestly terrified to touch my own stove now. Does this happen with regular dish soap too, or is it only the realy strong chemical stuff? I usally just use whatever is under the sink and never thought about the ink coming off.

Also, those decals sound like a good fix, but I’m curious if they stay on when the oven vents its heat. My range gets super hot right near the knobs, and I'd hate for the stickers to just peel off or get all gummy after the first time I bake something. Has anyone actually had them last for more than a few months?

Most high-temp vinyl decals hold up fine against oven venting, so don't sweat the heat too much. Regarding the cleaning, regular dish soap is safe becasue it's pH neutral. The problem is stuff with heavy citrus oils or caustic agents—they're basially paint strippers for that cheap silk-screening. One thing to check is if you have a local sign shop nearby that does laser engraving. If you can pull the panel off, they can sometimes etch the markings back into the metal for way less than a new board. It’s a bit of a project, but it looks more factory than a sticker ever will.

Honestly, I’d look for someone selling the same model "for parts" on local marketplaces. You can often find a unit where the motherboard died but the faceplate is still mint, and you can buy just that piece for a fraction of the cost. If you go the decal route, maybe try a tiny bit of clear automotive touch-up paint over the edges once they're set? It sounds overkill, but it keeps the corners from lifting when you wipe the stove down later. Just be super careful not to use any more harsh chemicals near those knobs from now on, even with the stickers.