Caring For Non-Stick Pans: Dos And Don'ts

Non-stick pans are a great addition to your kitchen, but they require special care to keep their non-stick properties. Here are some tips to help you care for your non-stick pans and ensure they last for years to come. Firstly, it is important to note that non-stick pans should not be subjected to extreme temperature changes as this can cause warping. Always allow your pan to cool down before washing and never submerge a hot pan in cold water. It is best to hand wash non-stick pans with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using harsh cleaning tools such as steel wool or abrasive pads as these can damage the non-stick coating. For stubborn residue, you can soak the pan in warm, soapy water and then gently scrub it clean. Additionally, it is recommended to use wooden or silicone utensils with non-stick pans to avoid scratching the surface. Non-stick pans should also not be overheated or used over high heat as this can damage the coating. Always use a low or medium heat setting when cooking with non-stick pans. Finally, avoid using aerosol cooking sprays as these can build up and coat the pan's surface over time, reducing its non-stick properties.

Never use metal utensils on non-stick pans

Non-stick pans are a great addition to your kitchen, making cooking and cleaning a breeze. However, they do require a certain level of care to ensure their longevity. One of the top rules of using non-stick pans is to never use metal utensils with them. Metal utensils, such as spatulas, spoons, forks, knives, whisks, and tongs, have sharp edges that can scratch or chip the non-stick coating. This coating, usually made of Teflon or PTFE, is what makes your pan non-stick in the first place. Scratching or chipping it can cause small fragments to end up in your food, which is unsafe. Additionally, it will destroy the non-stick coating over time, causing food to start sticking to the pan, which defeats the purpose of using a non-stick pan.

It is recommended that you use wooden, plastic, nylon, or silicone utensils with your non-stick pans. These materials are softer and will not damage the coating. With proper use and care, your non-stick pans can last for up to 5 years.

It is also important to note that you should always hand-wash your non-stick pans with a soft sponge or cloth, as the high temperatures and detergents used in dishwashers can break down the non-stick surface. Avoid using any abrasive tools, such as steel wool or scouring pads, as these can also damage the coating.

Additionally, non-stick pans should not be overheated. Stick to low to medium heat when cooking, as high heat can damage the coating over time. At extremely high temperatures, Teflon can release potentially dangerous fumes. Always ensure there is oil, water, or food in the pan before turning on the burner to protect the coating and help regulate temperature.

By following these care instructions, you can ensure that your non-stick pans remain in good condition for a long time.

Avoid sudden temperature changes

Non-stick pans are convenient for cooking, but they require special care to prevent their surface from scratching, peeling, or warping. One of the most important things to remember when using a non-stick pan is to avoid sudden temperature changes. Here are some detailed tips to help you do that:

• Always allow your non-stick pan to cool down before washing it. Giving it a few minutes to stop sizzling and cool down completely will help prevent thermal shock, which can damage the pan's coating.
• Never submerge a hot pan in cold water. This sudden change in temperature can cause the pan to warp or become misshapen. It can also affect the non-stick coating, making it less effective over time.
• Avoid placing a cold pan directly onto a stove burner set to high heat. This sudden change in temperature can also damage the coating and may cause it to break down faster.
• When cooking, it is best to stick to low to medium heat. High heat can damage the non-stick coating over time. At extremely high temperatures, the coating may break down and release potentially dangerous fumes.
• To protect your non-stick pan, don't heat it while empty. Always add oil, water, or food to the pan before turning on the burner. This will help the non-stick coating last longer and also serve as a temperature buffer.
• After cooking, allow the pan to cool down before placing it in water or washing it. Sudden temperature changes can cause the coating to crack, especially if the pan is ceramic.

By following these tips, you can help extend the life of your non-stick pan and maintain its non-stick properties. Remember that non-stick pans require gentle treatment, and with proper care, they can last for years.

Avoid harsh scouring pads

Non-stick pans are convenient kitchenware, but they require special care to prevent their surface from scratching, peeling, or warping. One of the most important things to remember when caring for non-stick pans is to avoid using harsh scouring pads. While it may be tempting to reach for a heavy-duty scouring pad to remove stubborn residue or burnt food, doing so can damage the non-stick coating on your pan.

Harsh scouring pads, such as those made of steel wool or stainless steel, can scratch and scuff the delicate non-stick surface. These scratches can impact the pan's non-stick properties, causing food to stick more easily. Instead, opt for light-duty, non-abrasive scouring pads that are specifically designed for non-stick cookware. These pads are usually made from soft materials like nylon or synthetic fibres and are labelled as "non-scratch" or "light duty". They are effective at removing residue without damaging the pan's coating.

When using a non-abrasive scouring pad, it's important to apply gentle pressure and avoid scrubbing too vigorously. For stubborn residue, it's best to soak the pan in warm, soapy water for a few hours before gently scrubbing it clean. If you're dealing with burnt-on food, you can also create a paste by mixing baking soda and water and applying it to the pan before scrubbing. Remember to always read the manufacturer's instructions, as they may have specific care directions for your particular brand of non-stick pan.

By avoiding harsh scouring pads and following the manufacturer's care guidelines, you can help extend the life of your non-stick pans and keep them in optimal condition.

Don't use cooking spray

It is imperative to avoid using cooking spray on non-stick pans. While it may seem like a good idea to use cooking spray on a non-stick pan, it can actually damage the non-stick coating. Cooking sprays are not just oil in a can; they also contain lecithin, an emulsifier, dimethyl silicone, an anti-foaming agent, and a propellant such as propane or butane.

Lecithin causes a sticky residue to form on the pan's surface, which can build up over time and become extremely difficult to remove. This residue will eventually degrade the cooking surface, causing food to stick. The issue is exacerbated by the fact that lecithin helps the oil form a thin film of droplets, which heat up and carbonize faster than oil pooled at the bottom of the pan.

Additionally, the attempt to remove the sticky residue can further damage the non-stick coating. People often resort to using abrasive sponges or scrubbers, which scratch and wear down the coating.

To avoid this issue, it is recommended to use a small amount of oil or butter in the pan instead of cooking spray. If you prefer the even coverage of a spray, you can use a refillable manual oil mister, which can be filled with your choice of cooking oil.

Store pans correctly

Storing your non-stick pans correctly is crucial for preventing scratches, preserving the non-stick coating, and maximising heat distribution. Here are some tips to ensure your pans remain in excellent condition:

• Utilise stacking protectors: If you plan to stack your non-stick pans, place protectors or felt pads between each pan to prevent scratches and preserve the non-stick coating. This is especially important if your pans have metal handles.
• Use a pot and pan organiser rack: If you have space in your cabinet, use a rack to store your pans upright, minimising contact and preventing scratches.
• Consider a lid organiser: If your non-stick pans have lids, use a lid organiser to keep them neat and easily accessible. This prevents clutter and ensures you can find the right lid when you need it.
• Install a wall-mounted pot rack: If cabinet space is limited, consider installing a wall-mounted pot rack to keep your pans within reach while freeing up cupboard space.
• Maximise storage space: Use adjustable shelf organisers to create additional levels in your cabinets, allowing you to stack pans more efficiently and prevent overcrowding.
• Wipe down before storage: Give your pans a final wipe with a microfiber cloth or soft towel to ensure they are free from any residue or moisture that could damage the non-stick coating.
• Avoid stacking pans without protectors: Always use a protective layer between pans to prevent direct contact and reduce the risk of scratches and damage.
• Store pans separately from metal utensils: Do not leave metal utensils inside your non-stick pans while storing them, as this can cause scratches and compromise the integrity of the non-stick coating.
• Ensure pans are dry before storing: Moisture trapped inside your non-stick pans can lead to mould, rust, or deterioration of the non-stick coating. Always ensure your pans are thoroughly dry before storing.
• Avoid stacking pans too tightly: Give each pan enough space to prevent them from rubbing against each other, which can result in scratches and damage.
• Store pans in a cool, dry place: Keep your non-stick pans in a cool and dry place away from direct heat and extreme temperatures.

Frequently asked questions