Emilie Meyer
Stainless steel pans are a kitchen staple for good reason. They heat up quickly and evenly, retain heat well, and are non-reactive, meaning you can cook anything without damaging the surface. However, stainless steel is not impervious to burnt-on messes and discoloration. With everyday use comes stains, water spots, and other stubborn marks, so it's essential to know how to clean and scrub your stainless steel pans properly to restore their shiny, spot-free finish.
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What You'll Learn
- Cleaning products: baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap are recommended
- Cleaning tools: non-abrasive sponges, cloths, and abrasive pads are suggested
- Cleaning techniques: scrubbing, soaking, and boiling water are popular methods
- Drying: microfibre cloths are recommended to dry pans
- Preventing scorching: preheating and using enough fat or liquid can help
Cleaning products: baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap are recommended
To clean a stainless steel pan, it is recommended to use a combination of baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap. Firstly, scrape out excess oil with a spatula or wipe it with a paper towel. Then, deglaze the pan by adding hot water. Cleaning a hot pan is easier, and it won't damage the pan. However, always let the pan cool down before submerging it in cool water to avoid thermal shock, which can cause warping.
Next, use a long-handled dish brush to loosen any stuck-on food. A Scotch-Brite scouring pad or sponge, along with some dish soap, can then be used to scrub the inside and outside of the pan in a continuous circular motion. While a Scotch-Brite pad will lightly scratch the surface, it won't affect the pan's performance or lifespan, as long as harsh pads like steel wool are avoided. A softer sponge, such as a Dobie pad, requires less force but may still leave some scratches.
For more stubborn stains, a baking soda slurry can be used. Create a mixture of one part baking soda to two parts vinegar in a bowl of warm water, and pour it into the pan. Let the solution sit for about 10 minutes, then scrub the pan with a non-abrasive sponge or scrubber. Repeat this process if necessary. Alternatively, the water can be brought to a boil in the pan, but it must be allowed to cool before scrubbing to ensure safety. The combination of vinegar and baking soda is effective because the vinegar's acidity breaks down grease, while baking soda is mildly abrasive and helps reduce the acid in burnt foods.
For blue-ish rainbow stains, vinegar is particularly useful. Simply place lemon halves in the pan, submerge them with water, and bring it to a boil for about 10 minutes. Once the water is cool, pour it out and use the lemons to rub the sides and bottom of the pan. Then, use a scourer to wipe away any remaining stains and rinse the pan under warm water. Finally, a wash with dish soap and a sponge will complete the cleaning process.
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Cleaning tools: non-abrasive sponges, cloths, and abrasive pads are suggested
When it comes to cleaning stainless steel pans, a range of tools can be used to get them sparkling again. It is important to use the right tools to avoid damaging the surface of your cookware. Non-abrasive sponges, cloths, and abrasive pads are all suitable options for cleaning stainless steel pans.
Non-abrasive sponges are a gentle option for cleaning stainless steel pans. While they require more effort and elbow grease than abrasive sponges, they are less likely to leave scratches on the surface of the pan. Soft sponges, such as Dobie pads, are a good choice for those who want to avoid scratching their cookware. Silicone sponges are another non-abrasive option that can be used for scrubbing pans.
Cloths can also be used for cleaning stainless steel pans. Microfiber cloths are a popular choice as they are highly absorbent and effective at picking up dirt and grime. They are also gentle on the surface of the pan, leaving it streak-free. It is recommended to use a clean, absorbent cloth or towel to dry off pans before putting them away, ensuring they are fully dried and preventing water spots or stains.
Abrasive pads, such as Scotch-Brite pads, are effective at removing stains and fond (browned bits of food) from stainless steel pans. These pads have a scouring surface that can scrub away stubborn residue without causing damage, as long as harsh pads like steel wool are avoided. Scotch-Brite pads will lightly scratch the surface, but this won't affect the pan's performance or lifespan. Abrasive pads are typically used with dish soap and can be found in a variety of colours and coarseness to suit different cleaning needs.
For tougher stains, powdered cleaners like Bar Keepers Friend or baking soda can be used with abrasive pads. These cleaners are effective at removing stubborn residue without damaging the pan. When using powdered cleaners, it is recommended to wear cleaning gloves to protect your hands. Overall, a range of cleaning tools are available to safely and effectively clean stainless steel pans, leaving them looking like new.
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Cleaning techniques: scrubbing, soaking, and boiling water are popular methods
Scrubbing, soaking, and boiling water are all effective methods for cleaning stainless steel pans.
Scrubbing is a straightforward process that involves using a scouring pad or sponge, such as a Scotch-Brite pad or sponge, along with dish soap, to scrub the inside and outside of the pan in a continuous circular motion. While a Scotch-Brite pad will lightly scratch the surface, it will not affect the pan's performance or lifespan. Alternatively, a softer sponge, like a Dobie pad, can be used, but it requires more effort and will not prevent scratches from metal utensils. After scrubbing, the pan should be rinsed and dried with a clean, absorbent towel. If the stains are particularly tough, a baking soda slurry or Bar Keepers Friend can be used in conjunction with scrubbing. Bar Keepers Friend is a more effective stain remover, but baking soda is more versatile and can be used to create a slurry that can be left on the pan overnight. When using either of these products, it is recommended to wear cleaning gloves to protect the skin.
Soaking is another option for cleaning stainless steel pans, especially if there are burnt or stubborn residues. The pan can be soaked in hot water, and this method will not damage the pan as stainless steel is treated to prevent rust and stains. Soaking can be done overnight without causing any harm to the pan.
Boiling water is a third method for cleaning stainless steel pans, especially when dealing with scorched pans or years of grime. This method involves boiling water and baking soda in the pan to remove baked-on residues and stains. Similar to the soaking method, the pan should be filled with hot water, and the addition of baking soda will help to loosen and remove stubborn residues. This process can take 15 to 30 minutes or longer, depending on the severity of the stains.
Overall, these three methods—scrubbing, soaking, and boiling water—are all effective ways to clean stainless steel pans and remove tough stains. The choice of method depends on the level of residue and the severity of the stains.
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Drying: microfibre cloths are recommended to dry pans
To keep your stainless steel pans in good condition, it's essential to dry them thoroughly after washing. While a regular kitchen towel can get the job done, microfibre cloths are recommended for optimal results. Microfibre cloths are highly absorbent, quick-drying, and gentle on stainless steel surfaces. They are designed to effectively remove water spots, streaks, and grime without scratching your pans.
Microfibre cloths are typically double-sided, with one side designed for cleaning and the other for buffing and polishing. When drying your pans, use the absorbent side to wipe away any remaining water droplets. Then, flip the cloth over and gently buff the surface to a streak-free shine. This two-step process will help you achieve a flawless, spotless finish.
Microfibre cloths are also versatile and can be used on various stainless steel surfaces beyond just pans. They are safe for appliances, sinks, countertops, and even cookware. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to any kitchen, helping you keep your stainless steel items looking brand new.
When purchasing microfibre cloths, opt for those specifically designed for stainless steel. For example, the ZHIDIAN Stainless Steel Microfiber Cloth is an excellent option, as it is non-scratch and suitable for a range of stainless steel items in your kitchen. Another recommended brand is Weiman, which offers a microfiber cloth designed to work in tandem with their stainless steel cleaners and polishes.
By using microfibre cloths to dry your stainless steel pans, you can ensure effective water removal and achieve a desirable shine. With regular use, you can maintain the spotless appearance of your pans and extend their lifespan. Remember to follow any care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure the longevity of your microfibre cloths as well.
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Preventing scorching: preheating and using enough fat or liquid can help
Stainless steel pans are durable, excellent heat conductors, and versatile. However, they are susceptible to scorching and discolouration. To prevent scorching, it is important to preheat the pan and use enough fat or liquid.
Firstly, always preheat your stainless steel pan on low to medium heat for two to three minutes before adding oil, fat, or food. This will help prevent or reduce burns and scorch marks. It is important to note that overheating can cause discolouration, so be sure not to preheat your pan for too long or at too high a temperature.
Secondly, ensure that there is enough fat or oil in the pan before adding your food. This will create a layer between the food and the pan, preventing sticking and scorching. It is also important to move the food around frequently with a spoon or tongs to prevent it from sitting at the bottom of the pan and burning.
Additionally, it is recommended to bring refrigerated ingredients, such as meat, to room temperature before cooking. Cold foods are more likely to stick to a hot pan, so allowing them to warm up slightly can help prevent scorching.
While these techniques can help prevent scorching, it is still possible for your stainless steel pan to become scorched or discoloured over time. In that case, there are several methods you can use to clean and restore your pan. One option is to use a commercial cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend, following the manufacturer's directions. Another option is to create a baking soda paste with a few spoonfuls of baking soda and enough water to cover the burnt areas. Bring this mixture to a boil and simmer until most of the water has evaporated, then scrub away the buildup with a non-abrasive sponge and wash in hot, soapy water. You can also try using vinegar, especially for discolouration caused by overheating. Pour some vinegar into the pan, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge and rinse with cold water.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can scrub a stainless steel pan. Use a non-abrasive sponge or a soft cloth to scrub your pan.
You can use a few spoonfuls of baking soda, some dish soap, and a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth to scrub your stainless steel pan. You can also use a commercial cleaner, such as Bar Keepers Friend.
Yes, you can use vinegar to scrub a stainless steel pan. Add some white distilled vinegar or apple cider vinegar to the affected area, dilute it with water, and rub the solution into your pan with a sponge or soft cloth.
Although steel wool can be used to scrub a stainless steel pan, it is not recommended as it can scratch the surface. Instead, use a softer sponge or cloth, such as a Dobie pad, to scrub your pan.
To prevent your stainless steel pan from getting scratched, make sure to store it properly. Avoid stacking other pans or objects on top of it, and consider keeping it in a cabinet where it can be easily accessed.
