The Best Ways To Clean Your Nonstick Pans

Non-stick pans are a blessing in the kitchen, but they do require some special care to keep them in good condition. Here's a quick intro to the dos and don'ts of cleaning and maintaining your non-stick pans so they last longer.

How to Clean Non-Stick Pans

Use low/medium heat to avoid warping the pan

Nonstick pans are a great addition to your kitchen, especially for stick-free cooking and easy cleanup. However, they require extra care to ensure they last longer. One of the most important things to keep in mind is to always use low to medium heat when cooking with nonstick pans.

Nonstick pans are not designed for high heat. The nonstick coating on the pan starts to break down at high temperatures, usually around 400–500 degrees Fahrenheit, and can cause the release of harmful toxins, depending on the type of coating. The plastic coating is made of a gas that is frozen and then compressed into a waxy substance, and it will begin to flake and break down at high temperatures. When heated above 400–500 degrees Fahrenheit, the molecules on the coating break down and release fluorocarbons into the air. These polymers, commonly found in household products, are linked to respiratory illnesses. Therefore, it is recommended to use nonstick pans for cooking foods that require low to medium heat, such as eggs and vegetables. For cooking that requires high heat, it is best to use a stainless steel or cast-iron pan.

Additionally, always make sure there is oil, water, or food in the pan before turning on the burner. This helps the nonstick coating last longer and serves as a temperature gauge, as most oils start to smoke at 400 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

By following these simple guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your nonstick pans and ensure they remain safe to use.

Clean with hot, soapy water

To clean non-stick pans with hot, soapy water, follow these steps:

Firstly, allow the pan to cool down completely before cleaning. Rinsing a hot pan under cold water or even running cool water over hot non-stick cookware can warp it and cause damage. Once the pan has cooled down, rinse it with warm water to remove any leftover food particles.

Next, fill your sink with hot, soapy water using a mild dish soap. You can also add the soap directly to the pan and fill it with hot water. Fully submerge the pan and let it soak for a few hours if there is any stubborn residue. The hot water will help to rehydrate dried-out food, making it easier to clean.

After soaking, use a soft sponge, soft cloth, or gentle scrub brush to clean the pan. Use the soft side of the sponge to scrub away any remaining food particles. Avoid using anything abrasive, such as steel wool, scouring pads, or stiff scrubbing brushes, as these can damage the non-stick surface.

Rinse the pan again with warm water to remove any leftover soap or food particles. Finally, dry the pan with a clean towel or cloth.

It is important to note that while some non-stick pans are dishwasher-safe, handwashing them with hot, soapy water is the best way to clean and prolong the life of your non-stick pans.

Avoid abrasive cleaning materials

When cleaning non-stick pans, it is important to avoid using abrasive materials to prevent damage to the non-stick coating. The non-stick coating on your pan is delicate and can be scratched or damaged by abrasive cleaning materials.

You should avoid using anything metal on non-stick surfaces. This includes metal scouring pads, steel wool, and chain mail scrubbers, which can all be too harsh and cause damage to the non-stick coating. Instead, opt for non-abrasive sponges, cloths, or pads. For example, Skoy cloths and pads are recommended by cleaning coach Leslie Reichert.

It is also important to avoid stiff scrubbing brushes, such as those with soap dispenser handles and scouring sponge brushes. These can be too harsh and cause unnecessary wear and tear on your pan's non-stick coating.

When dealing with stubborn residue, avoid the temptation to use anything abrasive. Instead, a paste made from baking soda and water can be applied and scrubbed gently with a non-abrasive sponge. This will help to remove burnt-on grease or food residue without damaging the pan's surface.

By avoiding abrasive cleaning materials, you can effectively clean your non-stick pans and maintain their non-stick coating, ensuring they remain in good condition for longer.

Use natural cleaning agents like baking soda

Natural cleaning agents like baking soda are a great way to clean non-stick pans. Baking soda is a non-toxic, inexpensive household ingredient with mild abrasive properties. It is alkaline, which means it reacts with mild acids like vinegar, lemon, and hydrogen peroxide to become a foaming cleaner. The chemical reaction gives baking soda more power to remove stains and burnt-on food.

To clean your non-stick pan with baking soda, cover the bottom of the pan with a layer of water. Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the water to create a thin paste. Let the pan sit for several hours, then rinse and wash the pan.

For stubborn stains, you can try a few different methods. One method is to boil a solution of 4 tablespoons of baking soda and 1/2 cup of water in the pan. Let the pan cool, then rinse the stain with straight baking soda and a non-stick-safe nylon scrubbing brush. Another method is to create a paste of baking soda and water and let it sit on the stain for several hours or overnight, then scrub with warm water and a non-stick-safe brush or sponge.

If your non-stick pan is visibly charred, a mixture of white vinegar, water, and baking soda should help loosen and remove any black residue. Create a slurry of vinegar, water, and baking soda directly in the pan, using a 1:1 ratio of each (for example, 2 tablespoons of each). Bring the mixture to a boil and stir for 5 minutes to loosen any burnt residue. Allow the mixture to cool, then discard the solution and rinse the pan with warm water.

Baking soda is a great natural cleaning agent for non-stick pans, but it's important to use the right tools when cleaning. Avoid using anything abrasive like steel wool or heavy-duty scrubbing brushes, as these can scratch and damage the delicate coating on your pan. Instead, opt for a non-stick-safe nylon scrubbing brush or a sponge.

Dry pans immediately after washing

Non-stick pans are a popular option for those looking for easy clean-up or a stick-free cooking surface. However, they require special care to prevent their surface from scratching, peeling, or warping.

One crucial step in caring for your non-stick pans is to ensure that they are thoroughly dried after washing. Leaving your pans to air dry or gently drying them with a clean, soft cloth or towel is essential to maintain their condition and prevent rusting. Here are some reasons why you should dry your non-stick pans immediately after washing:

Prevent Rusting:

Non-stick pans, especially those made of cast iron, are prone to rusting if not dried properly after washing. Thoroughly drying your pans with a towel or cloth immediately after washing helps prevent the formation of rust, ensuring they stay in good condition for longer.

Avoid Water Spots and Stains:

Water spots and stains can form on your non-stick pans if they are not dried properly. These unsightly marks can affect the appearance of your pans and may even impact their non-stick properties over time. Drying your pans promptly helps maintain their sleek look and performance.

Reduce Risk of Warping:

Non-stick pans are susceptible to warping if exposed to drastic temperature changes, such as placing a hot pan under cold water. Allowing your pans to cool down gradually and then drying them helps prevent warping, ensuring your pans remain flat and sit evenly on your stovetop.

Maintain Non-Stick Properties:

Leaving your non-stick pans wet after washing can defeat the purpose of their non-stick coating. Water can seep into the pan's surface and affect its ability to repel food and oil. Drying your pans immediately helps maintain their non-stick properties, making cooking and clean-up easier.

Prevent Bacterial Growth:

Bacteria thrive in moist environments, so ensuring your non-stick pans are thoroughly dried after washing is crucial for hygiene. Proper drying helps inhibit bacterial growth, keeping your pans sanitary and safe for food preparation.

Prolong Pan Lifespan:

By taking the time to dry your non-stick pans immediately after washing, you're contributing to their longevity. Proper drying reduces the risk of damage, helps maintain their non-stick coating, and ensures they remain functional and reliable for a more extended period.

Frequently asked questions