Burner Pans: Dishwasher-Safe?

Whether burner pans are dishwasher-safe depends on the material they are made of. For example, cast iron, aluminium, copper, and non-stick pans should not be put in the dishwasher. Burner pans with electrical components should also not be put in the dishwasher. However, some porcelain and stainless steel burner pans are dishwasher-safe.

Burner pans made from cast iron, aluminium, copper, or non-stick materials are not dishwasher-safe

Burner pans are a kitchen essential, but they can be a hassle to clean. While some people opt to wash their burner pans in the dishwasher, this is not always a good idea. Burner pans made from cast iron, aluminium, copper, or non-stick materials are not dishwasher-safe. The harsh environment of the dishwasher can damage these materials, leading to a lower-quality product.

Cast iron burner pans, for example, can rust if put in the dishwasher, as the water and heat will lead to cracks in the seasoning, allowing moisture to seep in. Instead, cast iron burner pans should be rinsed with a gentle scrub and should always avoid dish soap. Copper pans will also be damaged by the dishwasher, as the finish will eventually erode. Non-stick pans will also be affected by the harsh environment of the dishwasher, losing their non-stick quality over time.

Aluminium burner pans should also not be put in the dishwasher, as they will become discoloured. This is due to the combination of hot water and strong detergents, which will cause the aluminium to oxidise, resulting in a black or brown discolouration.

It is best to hand wash these burner pans, taking care to use the correct cleaning methods for each material. For example, cast iron and aluminium burner pans should be cleaned with hot water and a mild detergent, while non-stick pans can be cleaned with a soft sponge and warm, soapy water.

Burner pans with a matte black porcelain coating should not be put in the dishwasher

Burner pans with this type of coating should instead be cleaned by hand, using a no-scratch cleaning pad and hot water with a mild detergent or a paste made from baking soda and water. It is important to avoid soaking these burner pans for long periods of time, as this can lead to surface rust. If rust does occur, it can be removed with fine-grade steel wool and a mild abrasive cleaner.

Additionally, it is recommended to avoid using harsh soaps, as these can be too abrasive for the finish of the burner pans and can cause damage. Instead, a simple suds and rinse with mild soap is sufficient for cleaning.

By following these instructions, you can effectively clean your matte black porcelain-coated burner pans while preserving their finish and avoiding potential damage from the dishwasher.

Burner pans with electrical components should not be put in the dishwasher

It is important to keep the inside of your stove and any other electrical elements completely dry. The dishwasher's harsh environment can damage the electrical parts of the burner pans, and the jostling of the dishwashing cycles can cause further damage.

Instead, burner pans with electrical components should be hand-washed with soap and water. First, remove the burner pans from the stove. Then, use a damp towel to wipe away any residue. If there are tough stains, use a scrubby sponge with soap and water. Finally, rinse the burner pans with clean water and dry them before reattaching them to the stove.

By hand-washing burner pans with electrical components, you can avoid the risk of damage and ensure the continued safe use of your stove.

Burner pans can be cleaned with baking soda and vinegar

First, remove as much food and debris from the pan as possible. Then, add enough white vinegar to cover the bottom of the pan with at least 1/2 inch of liquid. Boil the vinegar in the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and add 1 cup of baking soda. This will cause a fizzing reaction. Set the pan aside and wait until the fizzing stops. Then, discard the liquid and scrub the pan with a nylon brush or scouring sponge, adding more baking soda as necessary. Finally, rinse and dry the pan.

For a less heavy-duty cleaning method, you can simply sprinkle baking soda onto the pan, add a thin layer of warm water, and scrub the pan with a wet scouring sponge or nylon brush.

Baking soda is a great natural cleaner for pans because it has mild abrasive properties and its alkaline pH can help neutralize acidic burnt foods.

Burner pans can be cleaned with a sponge and mild detergent

Step 1: Remove the burner pans

First, turn off the range or cooktop and allow it to cool down completely. Then, remove any components above the burner pans, such as electric coils, burners, or grates. For electric stoves, gently tug the burner coil straight out of the socket to remove it. Gas stoves usually have metal grates that can be lifted off to access the burner pans underneath.

Step 2: Prepare the cleaning solution

Fill your sink with hot water and add a few drops of mild dishwashing detergent. You can also use a mixture of liquid detergent or an all-purpose cleaner with water. If your burner pans are made of porcelain, you can use a mild abrasive cleaner.

Step 3: Soak the burner pans

Place the burner pans in the sink and let them soak for at least 10 minutes. If the burner pans have baked-on stains, you can soak them for a longer period.

Step 4: Scrub the burner pans

After soaking, use a sponge or a soft cleaning cloth to scrub the burner pans gently. For stubborn stains, you can use a mildly abrasive cleaner and a wet scouring pad. You can also use a scrubby sponge or a restoring sponge (melamine) to remove tough grime.

Step 5: Rinse and dry the burner pans

Rinse the burner pans thoroughly with hot water to remove any soap residue. Dry the burner pans with a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth. Ensure that the burner pans are completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

Step 6: Reinstall the burner pans

Once the burner pans are dry, you can place them back on the stovetop. Reinstall any components that you removed in Step 1, such as electric coils, burners, or grates.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean your burner pans with a sponge and mild detergent, keeping your stove looking neat and tidy.

Frequently asked questions