William-Sonoma Gold Tone Pans: Dishwasher Safe?

William Sonoma's Goldtouch range of bakeware features a ceramic-based coating that makes the pans more resistant to abrasion than normal non-stick surfaces. The Goldtouch coating also allows for easy food release. While the Goldtouch pans are dishwasher-safe, hand-washing is recommended to maintain the appearance of the pans over time. To clean, use mild dishwashing soap and avoid abrasive cleaning products and scouring pads.

Goldtone pan cleaning products

Goldtone pans are non-stick baking sheets that are known to develop orange-coloured stains over time. While regular washing with dish soap and elbow grease may not be enough to remove these stains, it is important to use cleaning products that are suitable for non-stick pans to avoid damaging the coating. Here are some recommended cleaning products and methods for tackling tough stains on your Goldtone pans:

• Bar Keepers Friend (BKF): Bar Keepers Friend is a popular choice for cleaning kitchen surfaces. It is a mild abrasive cleaner that can be used as a solution or paste. While some users have reported success with this product, others have cautioned that it may be too harsh for non-stick pans and can remove the coating. It is recommended to use a diluted solution and avoid using it on non-stick pans.
• Dishwasher Tablet Soak: Dissolving a dishwasher tablet in water and soaking the pans in this solution can help remove baked-on mess. This method is suggested for oven racks and similar baked-on stains.
• Steam Cleaning: Using a steam cleaner that shoots a jet of steam can be effective in melting off burnt-on residue without the use of chemicals.
• Oven Cleaner: Oven cleaner is suggested by some users as an effective way to remove tough stains from non-stick baking sheets. However, it is important to ensure that the oven cleaner is suitable for the type of pan and will not damage the non-stick coating.
• Magic Erasers (Melamine Foam): Melamine foam, commonly known as Magic Erasers, is recommended as a gentle yet effective cleaning tool for various surfaces, including non-stick pans.
• Mild Dish Soap and Non-Abrasive Sponges: For regular maintenance and light cleaning, using mild dish soap and a non-abrasive sponge can help keep your Goldtone pans in good condition without damaging the non-stick coating.

It is always important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for cleaning and maintenance to ensure the longevity of your Goldtone pans. Additionally, testing any new cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area first can help ensure that it does not cause discolouration or damage to the pan's coating.

Goldtouch coating

The Goldtouch coating on the Williams Sonoma bakeware is a ceramic-based coating that reinforces the pans, making them more resistant to abrasion than normal nonstick surfaces, and releasing food with ease. The coating provides 70% better food release, quick cleanup, and more abrasion resistance than standard nonstick surfaces.

The Goldtouch Pro nonstick coating is Williams Sonoma's most advanced nonstick finish. This coating is applied to their commercial-quality loaf pan, which is crafted from aluminized steel with a wire-reinforced rim for exceptional durability. The Goldtouch Pro coating enables even baking and browning of quick bread, yeast bread, and pound cake.

To maintain the longevity of the Goldtouch coating, Williams Sonoma recommends hand-washing the bakeware. While the pans are dishwasher-safe, the company suggests hand-washing with hot water, soap, and a soft sponge to avoid scratching the surface. It is important to avoid using abrasive cleaning products and scouring pads, and to only use wood, silicone, or plastic utensils when handling the pans.

The Goldtouch coating is safe to use in the oven up to temperatures of 450°F. Due to the heat efficiency of the bakeware, it is recommended to monitor the oven temperature and baking time for the first few uses, and then make adjustments to recipes as necessary.

Pan durability

The durability of a pan is an important factor to consider when purchasing cookware. The Williams Sonoma Goldtouch® Nonstick 4-Piece Toaster Oven Pan Set and the Williams Sonoma Goldtouch® 6-Piece Essentials Bakeware Set are designed with durability in mind. The pans in these sets are made of commercial-grade aluminized steel, which distributes heat quickly and evenly for consistent baking results. This material choice also contributes to the durability of the pans.

The Goldtouch ceramic coating on these pans is a key factor in enhancing their durability. This ceramic-based coating not only provides a nonstick surface for easy food release but also reinforces the pans, making them more resistant to abrasion than standard nonstick surfaces. The coating adds a layer of protection, preventing scratches and other types of damage that can occur with frequent use.

Additionally, the rims of the pans have been carefully designed for added durability. The half-sheet pan and square pan in the Toaster Oven Set feature coated wire-reinforced rims, which not only enhance durability but also provide resistance to rust and warping. Similarly, the round cake pans in the Bakeware Set feature an extra-thick rolled edge, maximizing their durability. These reinforced rims ensure that the pans maintain their shape and structural integrity over time.

The unique diamond-textured surface of the quarter-sheet pan in the Toaster Oven Set is another feature that strengthens the pan while improving airflow for even baking. This textured surface not only enhances the durability of the pan but also contributes to better baking results. The combination of durable materials and thoughtful design elements makes the Williams Sonoma Goldtouch pans a reliable choice for any kitchen.

Pan maintenance

Cleaning

To maintain your non-stick pans, it is important to clean them properly. Always wait for the pan to cool before washing it with cold water. Washing a hot pan with cold water is the quickest way to warp it. It is best to hand-wash non-stick pans with a gentle dishwashing liquid and a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using harsh, abrasive cleaning materials like steel wool. If your pan is nearing the end of its lifespan, fill it with water and add 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Bring this to a boil, then remove it from the heat and let it cool. Once it's cool, pour out the liquid and wash the pan with warm, soapy water.

Storage

After your pan has been cleaned and dried, place a pan protector, or a cloth or paper towel, over its surface if your storage space requires high stacking. This will prevent scratches.

Cooking

Non-stick pans should not be used over high heat as this can ruin them. Instead, cook over low or medium heat to maintain a smooth, stick-free surface. Use oils with a high smoke point, like grapeseed, sesame, or avocado, and avoid those with a low smoke point, like extra virgin olive oil. Cooking sprays should also be avoided as they can leave a residue that can shorten the lifespan of non-stick cookware. Always preheat the pan and add oil to it while it's still cool. Use rubber or wooden utensils when cooking to avoid scratching or material deterioration.

Product-specific Advice

For specific advice about cleaning your gold-tone pans from Williams Sonoma, it is recommended to use Bar Keepers Friend or to soak the pan in water with a dissolved dishwasher tablet.

Pan safety

Firstly, it is recommended that you hand-wash the pans before their first use. This involves washing them in warm water with mild dishwashing soap. While these pans are dishwasher-safe, hand-washing them is recommended to maintain their appearance over time. When washing, whether by hand or in a dishwasher, it is important to avoid using harsh detergents, abrasive cleansers, or scouring pads as these can damage the nonstick coating.

The Williams Sonoma Goldtouch® pans are made of commercial-grade aluminized steel, which distributes heat quickly and evenly for consistent baking results. The Goldtouch® ceramic coating also makes the pans more resistant to abrasion than standard nonstick surfaces, and food release is a breeze. However, it is important to note that this coating can be damaged by abrasive cleaners, as mentioned by a user who experienced coating loss after using Barkeepers Friend on their pan. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for gentler cleaning solutions, such as a weak Barkeepers Friend solution or a steam cleaner for removing burnt-on residue.

Additionally, when using the pans for cooking, it is important to use only wood, silicone, or plastic utensils to avoid scratching the nonstick surface. Cutting baked goods while they are still in the pan should also be avoided. These precautions will help maintain the integrity of the nonstick coating and ensure that your pans remain safe and effective for cooking.

Frequently asked questions