Cleaning Your Heritage Rock Pan: Tips And Tricks

Heritage Rock pans are non-stick frying pans made by Atlantic Promotions Incorporated. They are made of a forged aluminium base, which makes them thicker and more durable than other pans, and gives them excellent heat distribution. They are also free of PFOA and PTFE, and are safe to use at high temperatures. While they are dishwasher-safe, it is recommended to hand-wash them to avoid the intense heat and harsh detergents of dishwashers, which can wear down the non-stick coating over time. To clean a Heritage Rock pan, first let it cool, then remove any remaining food bits with a plastic spatula or paper towel. Run the pan under warm water, then gently scrub with a mild dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse the pan thoroughly, dry it immediately, and store it correctly to protect it. For stubborn residues, a baking soda solution can be used.

Use warm water and mild dish soap

When cleaning your Heritage Rock pan, always let the pan cool down after use. Thermal shock can occur when a hot pan is plunged directly into cold water, causing warping or cracking. Once the pan has cooled, use a plastic spatula or paper towel to remove any remaining food bits.

Next, run the pan under warm water. Warm water will help loosen any stuck-on food. Never use hot water, as this can cause the non-stick surface to deteriorate over time. Apply a small amount of mild dish soap to a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that can scratch the non-stick surface, such as steel wool or harsh scouring pads. Gently scrub the pan, paying close attention to areas with food residue.

Rinse the pan thoroughly to ensure that all soap residue is removed, as this can affect the pan's performance the next time you cook. Dry the pan immediately after rinsing to avoid water spots. Use a soft, clean dish towel, and be sure to dry both the inside and outside of the pan.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean your Heritage Rock pan using warm water and mild dish soap, maintaining its non-stick properties and ensuring its long-lasting brilliance.

Avoid harsh scouring pads

Harsh scouring pads can damage the non-stick coating on your Heritage Rock pan. The non-stick coating on the pan is delicate, and harsh scouring pads can scratch and rub it off, damaging the cookware beyond repair. The use of harsh scouring pads can also leave scratches and scuffs on the pan, making it more susceptible to rust and discolouration.

Harsh scouring pads, such as steel wool pads, are highly abrasive and can easily wear down the protective coating on your pan. These types of pads are designed for heavy-duty cleaning and are not suitable for non-stick surfaces. They are intended for use on durable materials such as stainless steel, aluminium, and cast iron.

When cleaning your Heritage Rock pan, it is important to use a soft sponge or cloth. These materials are gentle on the non-stick surface and will effectively remove food residue without causing damage. Avoid steel wool and other abrasive cleaning tools at all costs.

Additionally, always allow your pan to cool down before cleaning. Thermal shock from washing a hot pan in cold water can cause warping or cracking. Instead, use warm water to loosen any stuck-on food, as hot water can cause the non-stick surface to deteriorate over time.

By avoiding harsh scouring pads and following the proper cleaning techniques, you can maintain the condition and performance of your Heritage Rock pan for many years.

Don't use the dishwasher

When it comes to cleaning your Heritage Rock pan, it's important to remember that not all cleaning methods are created equal. While it may be tempting to just throw it in the dishwasher, especially if the manufacturer states that it is dishwasher-safe, this is not always the best idea. Here's why handwashing your Heritage Rock pan is the way to go:

Intense Heat and Harsh Detergents

The dishwasher's intense heat and harsh detergents can be too much for the non-stick coating of your Heritage Rock pan. Over time, these factors can cause the coating to wear down, making your pan less non-stick and potentially affecting its performance. Handwashing with mild dish soap and warm water is a gentler way to clean your pan and keep it in top condition.

Abrasion and Scratching

The dishwasher's intense water pressure and the rattling of dishes during a wash cycle can cause your Heritage Rock pan to bump against other dishes or the sides of the dishwasher. This can lead to abrasion and scratching, especially if the pan is not properly secured or if there is not enough water cushioning the impact. Scratches on the non-stick surface can make your pan more prone to sticking and can be difficult to remove.

Warping and Cracking

Just as plunging a hot Heritage Rock pan into cold water can cause warping or cracking due to thermal shock, the rapid temperature changes in a dishwasher can have a similar effect. The extreme heat of the wash cycle followed by the relatively cooler rinse and dry cycles can put stress on the material, potentially leading to warping or cracking over time.

Discoloration and Dulling

While Heritage Rock pans are dishwasher-safe, the manufacturer does warn that the shine of the coating may become dull and discolored due to certain detergents. This is a purely cosmetic issue and does not affect the performance of the pan, but if you want to maintain the pan's original appearance, handwashing may be a better option.

Buildup of Residue

When dishes are washed in a dishwasher, they can sometimes come out with a filmy residue, especially if the dishwasher is not properly maintained or if the wrong detergent is used. This residue can build up on your Heritage Rock pan over time, affecting its non-stick properties and potentially impacting the taste of your food. Handwashing ensures that you have control over the cleaning process and can avoid this issue.

Dry immediately after rinsing

After rinsing your Heritage Rock Pan, it is important to dry it immediately. Use a soft, clean dish towel to thoroughly dry the pan inside and out. This step is crucial to prevent water spots and keep your pan in prime condition.

Leaving your pan to air dry is not recommended, as it can lead to the formation of water spots and even rust over time. The moisture can also affect the pan's performance the next time you use it, resulting in less effective cooking results. Therefore, it is essential to take the time to properly dry your Heritage Rock Pan after each rinse.

When drying your pan, avoid using abrasive materials such as paper towels, as these can scratch the non-stick surface. Instead, opt for a soft, absorbent cloth or dish towel. Make sure to dry both the inside and outside of the pan thoroughly.

Additionally, ensure that you do not place your Heritage Rock Pan back on the burner or stove until it is completely dry. Placing the pan on a heated surface while it is still wet can cause damage to the non-stick coating and affect its performance.

By following these simple steps and drying your Heritage Rock Pan immediately after rinsing, you can maintain its durability and ensure optimal cooking results for many future meals.

Use a baking soda solution for deep cleaning

A baking soda solution is a great way to deep clean your Heritage Rock Pan and remove any stubborn, cooked-on residue. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Soda Solution

Mix three parts baking soda with one part water. The amount you make will depend on the size of your pan and how much residue you need to remove. For a small pan with light residue, a ratio of three tablespoons of baking soda to one tablespoon of water should be enough. For larger pans or more stubborn residue, you may need to mix up a more substantial batch.

Step 2: Apply the Solution to the Pan

Once you have your baking soda solution ready, apply it to your Heritage Rock Pan. Make sure the pan is cool before you begin, as you don't want to risk thermal shock. Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently apply the solution to the entire surface of the pan, ensuring that it comes into contact with all the residue you want to remove.

Step 3: Let the Solution Sit

After applying the baking soda solution, let it sit in your Heritage Rock Pan for about 15 minutes. During this time, the solution will work its magic, loosening the stubborn residue and making it easier to remove.

Step 4: Gently Scrub the Pan

Once the solution has had enough time to work, it's now safe to gently scrub your Heritage Rock Pan. Use a soft sponge or cloth and gently work on the areas with residue. Avoid using steel wool or any abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch the non-stick surface of your pan. With gentle but firm circular motions, you'll start to see the residue lift away.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

After scrubbing, it's essential to thoroughly rinse your Heritage Rock Pan to remove any remaining baking soda solution and loosened residue. Rinse the pan under warm water, ensuring that all traces of the solution and residue are gone. Finally, dry the pan immediately after rinsing to avoid water spots. Use a soft, clean dish towel to dry both the inside and outside of the pan.

By following these steps, you'll be able to deep clean your Heritage Rock Pan effectively and safely, ensuring that it's ready for your next culinary adventure. Remember always to be gentle with your pan and avoid any harsh or abrasive cleaning methods, as these can damage the non-stick surface.

Frequently asked questions