Comet Cleaner: The Secret Weapon For Removing Stubborn, Baked-On Food From Your Pans

Cleaning baked-on food from pans can be a challenging task, but there are various methods and products available to tackle this issue. One such product is Comet, a bleach-based cleanser that can be used to remove stubborn grime from cookware. While some people use Comet successfully on their pots and pans, others express concerns about its strong-smelling nature and the risk of toxic residue. So, is Comet an effective solution for removing baked-on food from pans, or are there alternative approaches that are safer and more practical?

Bleach in Comet

Bleach is a key ingredient in many Comet cleaning products. The original Comet cleaning powder contains bleach, and the company has since expanded its product line to include Comet Soft Cleansers with Bleach, Comet Germicidal Bleach, and Comet Ultra All-Purpose Cleaner with Bleach.

Comet with Bleach can be used to clean pots and pans, but it is important to exercise caution. Bleach is toxic, so thorough rinsing is essential after use. Additionally, bleach should never be mixed with ammonia, as the combination creates a toxic gas. Some liquid Comet products may contain ammonia, so it is crucial to check the ingredients before mixing Comet with other cleaning agents.

While Comet with Bleach can be effective in removing baked-on food from pans, it is important to follow safety precautions and always read the product label for proper usage instructions.

Comet is a well-known and trusted brand of household cleaning products, renowned for its powerful stain-fighting abilities and versatility. The original Comet cleaning powder was formulated with bleach to tackle tough stains, and the brand has since expanded to include a range of bleach-based products for various surfaces, including kitchens and bathrooms.

In addition to its effectiveness, Comet is also a cost-effective option for cleaning baked-on food from pans. According to Taste of Home, Comet cleaned their dirtiest pans in about 90 seconds, making it a quick and affordable solution for stubborn messes. However, it is important to note that Comet is a harsh cleanser, so wearing gloves and thorough rinsing are recommended.

Alternatives to Comet

While Comet is a popular choice for cleaning baked-on food from pans, there are several alternatives available that can get the job done just as effectively. Here are some options to consider:

Goo Gone Kitchen Degreaser

Goo Gone is a top-rated kitchen degreaser that can tackle even the most stubborn burned-on food. With just one spritz of this easy-to-use spray and a bit of elbow grease, you can have your pans looking like new again in about 40 seconds. Goo Gone is also versatile and can be used on various surfaces in the kitchen, including pots, stovetops, and sinks.

Method Heavy Duty Degreaser

If you're looking for a more natural alternative, Method Heavy Duty Degreaser is a plant-based, non-toxic option that's safe for the kitchen. While it may require an extra spray or two compared to other products, it's still highly effective at removing burned-on food. However, do note that it cannot be used on glass cooktops, marble, or aluminum.

Homemade Remedies

For pans that aren't too badly soiled, you can try some homemade remedies. For example, you can clean a baking sheet with just baking soda and vinegar. There are also various DIY degreaser recipes available online that use natural ingredients like lemon juice and essential oils.

Other Store-Bought Degreasers

There are numerous other store-bought degreasers available that can tackle tough, baked-on food. While specific products aren't mentioned, websites like Taste of Home offer lists of the best degreasers according to their experts.

Remember, when using any new cleaning product, always read the instructions and take the necessary precautions to protect your skin and surfaces.

Safety precautions when using Comet

Comet is a scouring powder that can be used to clean baked-on food from pans. It is safe to use on porcelain, stainless steel, ceramic, and other hard, nonporous surfaces. However, it is important to take safety precautions when using this product due to its toxic ingredients.

• Wear gloves: Comet is a harsh cleanser, so it is recommended to wear gloves to protect your skin from irritation and the harmful chemicals the product contains, such as formaldehyde, benzene, chloroform, and toluene.
• Rinse thoroughly: Make sure to rinse the product thoroughly after use. Bleach, which is present in Comet, is toxic if not properly rinsed. In addition, if you use dish soap that contains ammonia, be aware that bleach and ammonia can create a toxic gas.
• Avoid inhalation: Comet contains chlorine bleach, which can be harmful if inhaled. Avoid breathing in the product's fumes, and consider using it in a well-ventilated area.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets: Store Comet and other cleaning products in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion or exposure.
• Test on a small area first: If using Comet on a new surface, test it on a small area first to ensure it does not cause any damage or discolouration. For example, if using it on chrome fixtures, test it on a small area before applying it to the entire surface, as it may cause dulling.
• Use with caution on certain materials: While Comet is safe for use on many surfaces, it should only be used as a last resort on some materials, such as ceramic tiles. For example, the Comet Liquid Soft Cleanser, which contains bleach, should be wiped off immediately after use on ceramic tiles.

Effectiveness of Comet

The effectiveness of Comet as a cleaning agent for removing baked-on food from pans is supported by several testimonials. On Amazon, one user recommends using Comet to clean pots and pans, while another confirms that it does a good job. Similarly, on Fluther, multiple users report using Comet to clean their pots and pans effectively.

However, it's important to note that Comet is an abrasive cleanser containing bleach, which can scratch surfaces like stainless steel, china, and ceramic. As a result, some users advise against using Comet on good dishes or porcelain and enamel appliances. Instead, they suggest using alternatives like baking soda and vinegar for cleaning these surfaces.

To use Comet effectively for removing baked-on food from pans, one user recommends filling the pan with hot water and adding a liberal sprinkle of Comet bleach cleansing powder. Letting the mixture soak for about 30 minutes should make it easier to remove the baked-on food.

While Comet can be a cost-effective and versatile cleaner for various surfaces, including porcelain, stainless steel, and ceramic, it is essential to wear gloves and rinse thoroughly due to its harsh and abrasive nature.

Using Comet on stainless steel

Comet is a well-known cleaning product that can be used on stainless steel. Here is a guide on how to use Comet on your stainless steel pans to remove baked-on food:

Step 1: Soak the Pan

Before using Comet or any other cleaning product, it is recommended to soak the pan in a solution of dish soap and water. This will help to loosen any stuck-on food and make it easier to remove. Simply apply the soapy solution to the pan and let it sit for a few minutes.

Step 2: Choose Your Comet Product

Comet offers a range of cleaning products, including a cream, powder, and spray. For stainless steel, the Comet Stainless Steel Cleaner Cream or the Comet Stainless Steel Cleaner Spray are ideal choices. These products are designed specifically for stainless steel and will help to break down grease, dirt, and grime without causing scratches.

Step 3: Apply Comet to the Pan

Once you have chosen your Comet product, it's time to apply it to the pan. For the cream or spray, simply apply a small amount directly to the pan, focusing on the areas with baked-on food. If using the powder, you can apply it directly to a damp sponge or cloth and then rub it onto the pan.

Step 4: Scrub the Pan

Using a soft sponge or cloth, gently scrub the pan in the direction of the grain of the stainless steel. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or steel wool, as these can scratch the surface. Continue scrubbing until you see the baked-on food starting to lift away.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Once you have removed the baked-on food, rinse the pan thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining Comet residue. Then, dry the pan with a soft cloth.

Important Considerations:

• Always wear gloves when using Comet or any other cleaning product to protect your skin.
• Comet with bleach should not be used on pots and pans as bleach can be toxic if not rinsed thoroughly.
• Avoid using Comet or any other abrasive cleanser on non-stick coated pans as it may damage the coating.
• For extremely burnt-on food, you may need to repeat the process or let the pan soak in soapy water for a longer period before scrubbing.

By following these steps, you can effectively use Comet to remove baked-on food from your stainless steel pans, leaving them clean and shiny!

Frequently asked questions