Restore Pans: My Secret To Making Them Look New

Keeping your pans looking as good as new doesn't have to be a chore. There are several easy and effective methods to clean your pans, and the best part is that you probably already have the tools you need at home. From baking soda and vinegar to lemon and salt, these simple tricks will have your pans sparkling in no time. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and give those pans a brand-new shine!

Baking soda and peroxide

To clean your pans with baking soda and peroxide, you'll need baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, dishwashing gloves, and a sponge. This method is suitable for aluminium, aluminium steel, and non-stick pans.

First, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the pan. Then, cover the baking soda with hydrogen peroxide. You can also sprinkle on another layer of baking soda on top. Leave the pan to sit for up to two hours—the longer it sits, the more baked-on residue will come off. Finally, put on your gloves and wipe the pan off with a sponge. No heavy scrubbing is required. If some stains remain, simply repeat the process.

This method can also be used to clean spatulas and other kitchen tools, faucets, and doorknobs.

Vinegar and boiling water

To clean your pans with vinegar and boiling water, start by filling your pan with water. The amount of water you use will depend on the size of your pan and the extent of the burnt-on food. You will need enough water to cover the residue. Next, add vinegar to the water. The ratio of vinegar to water should be 1:3. Place the pan on the stove and bring the mixture to a boil. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes.

Once the mixture has boiled, turn off the heat and allow the pan to cool. As the pan cools, the water and vinegar mixture will help to loosen the burnt-on food, making it easier to remove. After the pan has cooled, pour out the liquid and use a sponge or scouring pad to scrub away any remaining residue. If necessary, add more baking soda and scrub with a nylon brush or scouring sponge.

Rinse the pan with water to remove any residual vinegar or baking soda. Finally, dry the pan thoroughly. It is important to ensure that the pan is completely dry before storing it away to prevent the formation of rust.

Using vinegar and boiling water is an effective way to clean your pans and remove burnt-on food. This method is simple and inexpensive and can be used on various pan types, including stainless steel and aluminium. However, it is important to note that this method may not be suitable for all pans, such as cast iron pans, as the use of vinegar and water can create rust and destroy the pan's seasoning.

Bleach cleansing powder and hot water

Step 1: Prepare the Solution

Fill your pan with hot water. Make sure the water is hot enough to cover the entire area of the burnt or greasy surface. Then, add a liberal amount of bleach cleansing powder. You can use products such as Ajax, Comet, or Bon Ami. Stir the mixture with a spoon, preferably wooden, to ensure the powder is fully dissolved.

Step 2: Soaking

Allow the pan to soak in the solution for about 30 minutes to an hour. This gives the bleaching agent time to work and soften the burnt-on grease and grime. This step is crucial, as it will make the cleaning process much easier.

Step 3: Cleaning

After the soaking period, empty the solution into the sink. If desired, apply a fair amount of liquid dish soap to the pan and scrub it with a sponge. You can also use a soft washcloth or a plastic scrubber to gently clean the pan. Avoid using abrasive tools like steel wool, as they can damage the pan's surface.

Step 4: Rinsing

Rinse the pan thoroughly with clean water. This step is essential to ensure that all traces of the bleach and soap are removed. You don't want your food to taste like bleach or soap the next time you use the pan!

Step 5: Drying

Finally, dry the pan with a clean cloth or allow it to air-dry. And that's it! Your pan should now look much cleaner and newer.

Remember to always read the manufacturer's care instructions before using any cleaning products on your pans. Some pans may not be suitable for bleach cleaning, so it's important to check beforehand. Additionally, always wear rubber gloves when handling bleach and hot water to protect your skin.

Borax and warm water

To clean your pans with borax and warm water, start by dissolving some borax in warm water. Using hot water is best. Put that mixture in your pan and leave it to soak for a while. Wash the pan afterward, ensuring you rinse it thoroughly to remove any borax remnants.

Borax is a versatile, effective, and affordable cleaning agent. It can be used to clean a variety of surfaces, including countertops, appliances, windows, tile floors, carpets, and bathroom surfaces. It is also a great option for gently cleaning porcelain and aluminum cookware.

Borax is a naturally occurring compound, chemically known as sodium tetraborate, and composed of oxygen, sodium, and boron. It has a pH level of 9.5, making it slightly alkaline. When combined with water, it forms a basic solution that can break down acidic, fatty, and oily substances.

When using borax, it is important to follow safety precautions. Avoid inhaling borax powder, wear gloves when using it, and always rinse the area you are cleaning with water afterward. Make sure to wash your hands with soap after using borax and use it in a well-ventilated area. Keep borax in a safe place, away from pets and children.

Ketchup and salt

Ketchup is an effective cleaner because it contains acetic acid, which breaks down the structure of dirt, oils, films, stains, and bacteria. Copper oxide, which causes copper to look tarnished, dissolves in a mixture of weak acid and table salt, both of which are found in ketchup.

Salt can also be used to clean pans in conjunction with hot water, vinegar, or grapefruit. To use salt and hot water to clean a pan, simply soak the pan in hot water and then scrub with a hardened wire brush. To use salt and vinegar, add a cup of vinegar to a pot of hot water, then put the pan on the stove and boil the mixture. To use salt and grapefruit, cut a grapefruit in half, dip the cut end in salt, and scrub the bottom of the pan.

Frequently asked questions