Hexclad Pans: Washing After Seasoning, Safe?

Hexclad pans are hybrid cookware, which means they are not as easy to clean as non-stick pans. However, Hexclad's hybrid technology is more durable and long-lasting. The pans have a non-stick coating, which makes cleaning easier than traditional stainless steel pans. Hexclad pans are also dishwasher-safe, so clean-up is usually the easiest part of meal prep. For light stains and cooking residue, you can clean Hexclad pans with warm soapy water. For heavy-duty stains, you will need to let the pans soak in warm soapy water for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing.

How to season a HexClad pan

Hexclad pans are made from a metal alloy of carbon steel and stainless steel, which means they need to be seasoned before use. Seasoning your pan will give it a non-stick surface, protecting your food from sticking and burning. Here is a step-by-step guide to seasoning your Hexclad pan:

Step 1: Wash your pan

Before seasoning, it is important to wash your pan with warm soapy water. This is because your pan will have been hand-polished at the factory and may have some residue on it. Washing your pan will also remove any packing materials or elements from the factory that you don't want in your food. Use a sponge and some dish soap to gently scrub your pan clean.

Step 2: Dry your pan

Once your pan has been washed, dry it thoroughly with a paper towel or a dry kitchen towel. Do not leave your pan to air-dry as this may cause water marks. It is important to ensure your pan is completely dry before moving on to the next step as any moisture left in the pan can react with the oil and heat and cause issues with the seasoning process.

Step 3: Heat your pan

Place your pan on the stovetop and turn the burner to medium or low heat. Do not be tempted to turn the heat up higher as this may cause the oil to turn rancid in your pan, which will ruin the seasoning process. Hexclad pans are designed to retain and conduct heat well, so you only need a low heat.

Step 4: Add oil to the pan

After a minute or two, add a tablespoon of oil to your pan. You can use a variety of oils including avocado, canola, flaxseed, grapeseed, peanut, safflower, or vegetable oil. Do not use butter or lard as these will stain your pan. Once you have added the oil, swirl it around the pan to ensure the entire cooking surface is coated.

Step 5: Heat the oil

Allow the oil to heat up and swirl around the pan for two to three minutes. The oil will start to burn and smoke, but this is normal as long as you have kept the heat at the right temperature. The burning of the oil will leave residual fats and oils which will give your pan longevity.

Step 6: Wipe away excess oil and cool the pan

After the oil has heated up and smoked for a few minutes, wipe away any excess oil and allow your pan to cool down. This won't take long due to the metal alloys in Hexclad pans. Once your pan is cool, you can put it away or start cooking straight away. If you are going to cook immediately, you can leave any residual oil in the pan as this is safe to use and will not ruin your coating.

Re-seasoning your pan

Your pan should stay perfectly seasoned for a long time. However, if you notice that food is starting to stick to the pan, or you are having trouble with certain ingredients, it may be time to re-season. Typically, a proper seasoning process should last two to three years, depending on how often you cook.

Cleaning a HexClad pan after seasoning

HexClad pans are hybrid cookware, which means they are not as easy to clean as non-stick pans. However, unlike typical non-stick pans, HexClad's hybrid technology lasts longer and is more durable. HexClad pans can be cleaned in the dishwasher most of the time, but if you're dealing with heavy-duty stains, you may need to put in a little extra effort. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean and care for your HexClad pan after seasoning:

Rinse with Hot Water

First, rinse your HexClad pan with hot water to help break down any remaining oil and food scraps. If there is a lot of food residue, use a slotted spoon or a sieve to prevent the scraps from going into your sink drain.

Get Rid of Oil Residue

Pour about half a cup of white vinegar into the pan, then add hot water until it's about two-thirds full. Place the pan on the stove and turn it on, allowing the liquid to simmer for around five minutes. Turn off the stove and use a paper towel to soak up the remaining residue and grease. You can also use a sponge to wipe it down.

Soak, Rinse, and Dry

Fill your sink with hot water and add some dish soap. Place the pan in the sink and let it soak to help release any remaining residue. Change the water when it gets too oily. Once the pan has soaked for a while, rinse it with clean water and dry it with a paper towel or a clean cloth.

Removing Burnt Residue

If you have burnt residue on your pan, mix baking soda and water until it forms a paste, then spread the paste onto the burnt areas. Leave it for about half an hour, then wipe off the baking soda solution with a sponge or cloth.

General Tips for Cleaning HexClad Pans

• HexClad pans are metal utensil-safe, so you can use more abrasive sponges like steel wool if needed.
• For tough stains, let the pan soak in warm soapy water for 10-15 minutes, then scrub with a more abrasive sponge. You can also use a product like Barkeeper's Friend.
• Always hand wash your HexClad pans with warm soapy water before the first use, as they are hand-polished before leaving the factory.
• HexClad recommends seasoning your pan before use. To do this, heat the pan to medium-low heat and spread 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil around the interior. Leave it on the heat for 2-3 minutes, and your pan will be ready to use!

What not to do when cleaning a HexClad pan

HexClad pans are hybrid cookware, which means they are not as easy to clean as non-stick pans. However, they are more durable and last longer. Here are some things to avoid when cleaning a HexClad pan:

• Do not put it in the dishwasher. HexClad pans are dishwasher-safe, but for more thorough cleaning, it is recommended to wash them by hand.
• Do not use harsh chemicals or cleaning agents. Stick to mild dish soap and avoid bleach or citrus extracts, as they can cause the pan to rust.
• Do not use abrasive sponges or scrubbers on the non-stick surface. While HexClad pans are metal utensil-safe, abrasive materials can damage the non-stick coating.
• Do not soak the pan for extended periods. Soaking the pan in warm soapy water is recommended for tough stains, but it should not be left to soak for too long to avoid potential damage.
• Do not use cold water when rinsing. The sudden temperature change can cause the metal to distort, affecting the pan's performance.
• Do not use non-stick cooking sprays. These can lead to build-up and create a barrier between the pan and the food, affecting the cooking process.
• Do not use metal utensils. Although HexClad pans are metal utensil-safe, it is recommended to use wooden or silicone utensils to protect the non-stick coating.
• Do not preheat the pan before placing food in it. Always add the food to the pan before turning on the heat to avoid overheating and potential warping.

Best cleaning tools for a seasoned HexClad pan

HexClad pans are made with a hybrid design, which includes stainless steel, so temporary staining can occur. To keep your pans in good condition, it is important to use the right cleaning tools and products. Here are some of the best cleaning tools for a seasoned HexClad pan:

• Soft sponge or cloth: Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently clean your HexClad pan. These materials are gentle enough to avoid damaging the surface of your pan while also being sturdy enough to remove any stuck-on food particles. Avoid using abrasive scouring pads or metal utensils as they can cause scratches and damage to the pan's coating.
• Mild dish soap: When washing your HexClad pan, use a mild dish soap specifically designed for hand-washing dishes. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia-based products, as they can damage the non-stick surface of the pan.
• Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural and effective cleaner that can help remove stubborn stains and grease from your HexClad pan. It is also non-abrasive, making it safe to use on the pan's surface.
• White vinegar: White vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that can be used to remove tough stains and grease. It is also effective for removing any lingering odours from your pan.
• Soft-bristled brush: For hard-to-reach areas or tougher stains, a soft-bristled brush can be useful. Just be sure to use a gentle touch and avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent damaging the pan's coating.
• Lemon and salt: If you're struggling to remove tough grease or grime, try using a mixture of equal parts lemon juice and salt. Rub the mixture onto the affected area and then rinse it away with warm water. For extra scrubbing power, you can add a bit of baking soda to the mixture.
• Commercial cookware cleaner: If your pan is still not coming clean, you can try using a commercial cookware cleaner designed specifically for cleaning pots and pans. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and test the product on a small area first. Some commercial cleaners may contain harsh chemicals, so always use caution, wear gloves, and work in a well-ventilated area.

Remember to always clean your HexClad pan immediately after use while it is still hot, as this will make it easier to remove any food residue. Additionally, be sure to dry your pan thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots or rusting. With proper care and maintenance, your HexClad pan can last for many years.

How to dry a HexClad pan after washing

HexClad pans are hybrid cookware, which means they are not as easy to clean as non-stick pans. However, they are more durable and last longer. To dry a HexClad pan after washing, follow these steps:

• Rinse the pan with warm water to remove any remaining food scraps or oil. Use a slotted spoon or a sieve to prevent food scraps from going into your sink drain.
• Fill the pan with hot water and soap and place it in the sink. This will help to release any remaining residue. Change the oily water occasionally.
• Once the pan has soaked, rinse off the soapy water and dry it with a paper towel or a clean towel. It is important to dry the pan thoroughly to prevent water spots and ensure it is ready for the next use.
• If there are any stubborn stains, you can use an abrasive sponge, such as steel wool, to scrub the pan after it has soaked. For tough stains, you can also use a product like Barkeeper's Friend.
• Make sure to dry the pan completely before storing it to prevent rusting, especially if it is stored in a high-humidity environment.

By following these steps, you can effectively dry your HexClad pan after washing, ensuring it is ready for your next cooking adventure.

Frequently asked questions