Soap And Non-Stick Pans: A Recipe For Disaster?

Non-stick pans are a popular choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike, thanks to their easy cleanup and stick-free cooking surface. However, non-stick cookware is not indestructible, and there are several ways to accidentally ruin your non-stick pans. One of the most common questions about non-stick pan care is whether or not it is safe to use soap to clean them.

The best way to clean non-stick pans

Non-stick pans are convenient for cooking, but they require special care to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips to help you clean and maintain your non-stick pans effectively:

Read the Manufacturer's Instructions

Before using or cleaning your non-stick pans, it's important to read the manufacturer's instructions. Different brands may have specific care directions, so make sure to follow their recommendations.

Wash by Hand

Although some non-stick pans are labelled dishwasher-safe, handwashing is the best option. The high temperatures and harsh detergents in dishwashers can break down the non-stick surface over time.

Use Mild Dish Soap and a Soft Cloth or Sponge

When cleaning non-stick pans, avoid using abrasive tools like steel wool or scouring pads, as they can damage the surface. Instead, opt for a mild dish soap and a soft cloth or sponge. Wash the pan immediately after use, as this will make it easier to remove debris and prevent food from clinging to the surface.

Avoid Metal Utensils

Metal utensils can scratch or chip the non-stick coating. Use wooden spoons or silicone utensils instead, as they are gentler on the surface and don't have sharp edges.

Don't Overheat the Pan

High heat can damage the non-stick coating over time. Stick to low or medium heat when cooking, and always have oil, water, or food in the pan before turning on the burner. This will help protect the coating and serve as a temperature gauge.

Remove Stubborn Residue with Baking Soda

For stubborn burnt-on food or oil residue, create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply this paste to the pan and scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse, dry, and re-season the pan with a light coating of cooking oil.

Avoid Non-Stick Cooking Spray

Surprisingly, non-stick cooking spray can actually make food stick to the pan. These sprays burn at a lower temperature than the non-stick coating, damaging the pan over time. They also leave behind a residue that builds up and affects the non-stick surface. Instead, use oil or butter to help with browning and prevent sticking.

Wash and Season New Pans Before First Use

Before using a new non-stick pan, wash it with hot, soapy water to remove any residue from packaging. Dry the pan thoroughly, then season it by lightly rubbing cooking oil over the surface and heating it on the stove over medium heat for a few minutes. Once it's cooled down, wipe out any excess oil with a paper towel before storing.

How to avoid ruining non-stick pans

Non-stick pans are a popular choice for home cooks due to their convenience and easy cleanup. However, they require special care to prevent their surface from scratching, peeling, or warping. Here are some tips to help you avoid ruining your non-stick pans:

Avoid High Heat:

• Do not use non-stick pans over high heat as it can ruin the coating. Stick to low or medium heat to maintain a smooth, stick-free surface.
• Always add cooking fat or other ingredients to your pan before turning on the heat to avoid dry heating.

Use the Right Cooking Utensils:

• Avoid using metal utensils as they can scratch or scrape the non-stick coating.
• Opt for wooden or silicone utensils instead. They are gentler on the coating and won't cause any damage.

Proper Cleaning and Maintenance:

• Always allow the pan to cool completely before cleaning. Rinsing a hot pan with cold water can cause warping and damage.
• Hand wash your non-stick pans instead of putting them in the dishwasher. The high temperatures and detergents in dishwashers can break down the non-stick surface.
• Avoid using abrasive tools like steel wool, scouring pads, or stiff brushes when cleaning. Use a soft sponge or cloth instead.
• For stubborn residue, soak the pan in warm, soapy water for a few hours and then gently scrub it clean.
• For burnt-on food or oil residue, create a paste with baking soda and water, and lightly scrub with a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse, dry, and re-season the pan with cooking oil.

Avoid Non-Stick Cooking Spray:

• Cooking sprays can actually make food stick to the pan and create a residue that builds up over time, damaging the non-stick surface.
• Stick to using oil or butter for better browning and to avoid ruining your non-stick pans.

Wash and Season Before First Use:

• Before using a new non-stick pan, wash it with hot, soapy water and thoroughly dry it.
• Season the pan by lightly rubbing cooking oil over the surface and heating it on the stove over medium heat for a few minutes. Once cooled, wipe out any excess oil with a paper towel.

By following these simple tips, you can extend the lifespan of your non-stick pans and keep them in top shape for years to come.

Is it safe to use non-stick pans if they're scratched?

Non-stick pans are a popular kitchen staple, but they do require careful use and maintenance. One of the most common issues with non-stick pans is scratching, which can occur from using metal utensils, harsh cleaning tools, or washing them in the dishwasher. So, is it safe to use non-stick pans if they have scratches? The answer is a little complicated and depends on several factors.

Firstly, it's important to understand that non-stick pans are coated with a chemical compound, typically polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known by the brand name Teflon. PTFE is a type of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), also known as "forever chemical" due to its persistence in the environment. Over time, as non-stick pans age or become scratched, they can release these chemicals, which have been linked to potential health risks.

If your non-stick pan is only lightly scratched, it may still be safe to use, especially if it is a newer model. Since 2014, PTFE coatings have been manufactured without two of the most concerning PFAS chemicals: PFOA and PFOS. These older chemicals were linked to health issues, including cancer, and environmental concerns, leading to their phase-out. Newer non-stick pans may still contain other PFAS chemicals, but their health impacts are not yet fully understood and appear to be safer. Therefore, if your pan is only lightly scratched and is of a newer make, it may still be safe to use, but it's essential to follow the recommended guidelines for use and care.

However, if your non-stick pan is heavily scratched or the coating is chipped, it's best to stop using it. When a non-stick pan is heavily scratched, small particles of the coating can flake off into your food. A 2022 study found that scratched pans release thousands to millions of microplastics and nanoplastics, which may pose health risks. Consuming these particles may not be dangerous in small amounts, but it is still recommended to avoid doing so. Additionally, scratches and chips in the coating can indicate that your pan is losing its non-stick abilities, leading to food sticking to the surface.

To protect your non-stick pans and prolong their lifespan, it's important to follow some care instructions:

• Hand wash with a soft sponge or cloth, as dishwashers can cause scratches.
• Avoid using metal utensils; opt for rubber or wooden utensils instead.
• When storing, cover the surface with a cloth or paper towel to prevent scratches from stacked pans.
• Avoid overheating or using high heat, as this can damage the coating and release toxic fumes.
• Use oils with a high smoke point, such as grapeseed, sesame, or avocado, instead of cooking sprays, which can leave residue and shorten the pan's lifespan.
• Always wait for the pan to cool before washing it with cold water to avoid warping.

If your non-stick pan is heavily scratched, it's best to replace it with a new one or consider switching to alternative materials such as cast iron, stainless steel, or carbon steel, which are safer and more durable options. Remember to always follow the recommended care instructions for your cookware to ensure its longevity and your safety.

What to avoid when using non-stick pans

Non-stick pans are a popular choice for home cooks and professionals alike, thanks to their easy cleanup and stick-free cooking surface. However, to keep your non-stick pans in good condition, there are several things you should avoid doing. Here are some tips to help you care for your non-stick pans and maintain their non-stick properties for as long as possible:

• Do not put an empty pan on an active burner: Always add cooking fat or other ingredients to your pan before turning on the heat. This will help prevent the pan from overheating and becoming damaged.
• Avoid overheating: Do not heat your non-stick pan above 500 degrees Fahrenheit (or 600 degrees, according to another source). High heat can damage the non-stick coating over time, and at extremely high temperatures, Teflon (a common non-stick coating) can release potentially dangerous fumes. Stick to low to medium heat for best results.
• Do not use metal utensils: Metal utensils can scratch the non-stick coating, so opt for wooden or silicone utensils instead. This includes spatulas, whisks, and spoons.
• Avoid aerosol cooking sprays: Many aerosol cooking sprays contain additives that can ruin the non-stick coating. Instead, use butter or oil when cooking.
• Do not rinse a hot pan with cold water: Rinsing a hot non-stick pan with cold water can cause the pan to warp and lose its shape. Always allow the pan to cool completely before cleaning.
• Do not put non-stick pans in the dishwasher: The high temperatures and detergents used in dishwashers can break down the non-stick surface. Wash your non-stick pans by hand to avoid permanent damage.
• Avoid harsh scrubbing materials: When cleaning your non-stick pan, do not use steel wool, scouring pads, or stiff scrubbing brushes. These can scratch and damage the coating. Instead, use a soft sponge or cloth, and for particularly stubborn residue, try a gentle dishwashing liquid or a mixture of baking soda and water.

How to clean a burnt non-stick pan

It can be frustrating to see your non-stick pan burnt, but with a bit of patience and the right technique, your pan will be as good as new. Here is how you can clean it:

Method One: Soap and Water

• Let the pan cool down before you start cleaning it.
• Rinse the pan with soap and warm water to remove any leftover food particles.
• Fill the pan with hot water and add dish soap. Let the pan soak in this mixture for 10 to 15 minutes.
• After the pan has soaked, scrub the burnt areas with a dish sponge. Use the rough side of the sponge to scrub. Avoid using anything more abrasive, such as steel wool, as it can scratch and damage the coating.
• Rinse the pan again and dry it with a clean towel.

Method Two: Vinegar and Baking Soda

• If your non-stick pan is visibly charred, create a mixture of two tablespoons of white vinegar, water, and baking soda directly in the pan.
• Pour in enough water to cover the bottom of the pan.
• Place the pan on the stove and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir it for about 5 minutes to encourage any burnt residue to loosen.
• Allow the mixture to cool down completely, then discard the vinegar solution.
• Rinse the pan with warm water and repeat steps two and three of method one.

If the burnt food or residue still remains stuck to the surface, it may be time to replace your non-stick pan.

Frequently asked questions