The Best Way To Clean Your Coated Frying Pan

Non-stick pans are a great kitchen tool, but they do require some special care to keep them in good condition. To clean a coated frying pan, it's important to avoid harsh cleaning methods and abrasive materials, as these can damage the non-stick coating. Instead, hand wash the pan with mild soap and a soft cloth or sponge, and always dry it straight after washing. For stubborn residue, a paste made from baking soda and water can be applied, left for 15 minutes, and then rinsed away.

Use a non-abrasive nylon scrubber to clean the pan

To clean a coated frying pan, it is important to use a non-abrasive nylon scrubber to avoid damaging the pan's non-stick coating. Here are some detailed instructions on how to clean your coated frying pan using a non-abrasive nylon scrubber:

• Wash your pan by hand with mild, soft soap and a non-abrasive nylon scrubber. Avoid using dishwashing detergent and hot water, as these can shorten the life of your pan.
• Rinse the pan with lukewarm water and dry it immediately with a soft dish rag or paper towel to prevent rusting.
• If there is burnt-on food or stubborn residue, create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste gently with a non-abrasive nylon scrubber and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing the pan thoroughly.
• For a deeper clean, fill the pan with water and add a small amount of white vinegar. Bring it to a boil and skim off any residue that floats to the top with a paper towel. Then, wash the pan with soapy water and a non-abrasive nylon scrubber.
• To remove oily residues, fill the pan with hot water and white vinegar. Bring it to a boil and simmer for a few minutes. Use an absorbent paper towel to remove the leftover oils and grease from the surface before discarding it.
• Always wash your coated frying pan by hand and avoid putting it in the dishwasher, even if it is labelled as dishwasher-safe.
• Dry your pan by hand immediately after washing to ensure it is completely dry before storing it.

By following these instructions and using a non-abrasive nylon scrubber, you can effectively clean your coated frying pan while protecting its non-stick coating.

Wash by hand with mild, soft soap and a soft cloth or sponge

To clean a coated frying pan, it is recommended to wash it by hand with mild, soft soap and a soft cloth or sponge. This is because dishwashing detergent and hot temperatures can shorten the life of your pan.

Firstly, you should hand wash your pan with lukewarm water and a mild, soft soap. Use a nylon or microfiber cloth or sponge to best remove dirt and grime.

If there is burnt food stuck to the pan, you can soak the pan in warm, soapy water for 10-20 minutes before hand washing it again.

To remove stubborn gunk, create a paste with equal parts water and baking soda. Dip a non-metallic brush or sponge into the paste and gently dab it onto the sides and interior of the pan. Allow the paste to sit for fifteen minutes, then rinse the pan thoroughly.

Finally, dry your pan immediately by hand with paper towels or a soft dish rag.

Rinse and dry the pan

Rinsing and drying your coated frying pan is a crucial step in the cleaning process. It is important to rinse the pan with clean water to remove any soap residue and food particles. Lukewarm water is best for rinsing, as hot water can shorten the life of your pan and damage the coating. Give the pan a thorough rinse, ensuring that all soap and food residue is removed.

Once rinsed, it is important to dry the pan straight away. Use a soft cloth or tea towel to dry the pan. Paper towels can also be used to absorb any remaining water. Ensure that you dry the pan completely, as storing a wet pan can lead to rusting.

If your coated pan is dishwasher-safe, it is still important to rinse and dry the pan after washing. Dishwashers can leave a residue on the pan, so a quick rinse under clean water will ensure that any leftover detergent is removed. Similarly, always dry the pan by hand, even if you have washed it in the dishwasher.

Rinsing and drying your coated frying pan by hand is a simple yet important step in the cleaning process. It ensures that your pan remains in good condition and prolongs the life of the coating.

Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive scrubbers

When cleaning a coated frying pan, it's important to avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive scrubbers. The non-stick coating on these pans is delicate and can be damaged easily, reducing the pan's effectiveness and lifespan.

You should avoid using harsh, abrasive cleaning tools such as steel wool, scouring pads, or stiff scrubbing brushes. These can scratch and damage the non-stick coating, leading to a pan that doesn't perform as expected and may need to be replaced prematurely. Instead, opt for soft sponges or cloths made from materials like nylon, microfiber, plastic, or wood. These materials are gentle on the coating and will effectively remove food and grease without causing damage.

It's also important to avoid harsh chemical cleaners. Strong detergents and harsh cleaning solutions can break down the non-stick surface over time, making your pan more prone to sticking and more difficult to clean. Mild, soft soaps are recommended. Some sources suggest using natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar solutions, which are effective at removing grease and burnt-on food without damaging the pan's coating.

By avoiding harsh cleaners and abrasive scrubbers, you can maintain the quality of your coated frying pan, ensuring it remains non-stick and easy to clean for a longer period.

Wash by hand rather than in the dishwasher

To keep your non-stick pans in good condition, it is recommended that you wash them by hand rather than in the dishwasher. Even if the manufacturer labels your pan as dishwasher-safe, it is best to avoid using a dishwasher to clean your non-stick pans. This is because dishwashing detergent and hot temperatures can shorten the life of your pan.

To wash your non-stick pan by hand, start by removing as much of the oil or food scraps as possible using a plastic or wooden spatula. Remember not to pour the oil down the sink as it can cause a blockage. Instead, dispose of it in your food waste bin or regular rubbish bin. Next, give the pan a quick rinse with hot water. If there are a lot of scraps of food, empty the water through a slotted spoon or sieve to catch the bits before they go down the plughole.

Then, fill the pan with water and add 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Bring this to a boil—you should see small, glistening bubbles of oil rising to the surface. Remove the pan from the heat and use an absorbent paper towel to lift off any leftover oils and grease. Throw the paper towel away and pour the water down the sink.

Finally, place your pan into a sink full of hot water and washing-up liquid. If your pan isn't too dirty, you only need to leave it to soak for a few minutes. If the grease has congealed, you might need to leave it for longer. If the water in your sink is very oily, change it. Remember to wipe rather than scrub, as the non-stick coating helps food and oil to glide off, and scrubbing can damage this coating.

Frequently asked questions