Cleaning Scanpan Stainless Steel: Easy Steps For Sparkling Cookware

Scanpan is a brand of cookware known for its durability and excellent non-stick properties. The brand includes stainless steel pans in its range. To clean your Scanpan stainless steel pans, you should let the pan cool off, then wash it with warm, soapy water. You can use a nylon scouring pad to scrub efficiently without scratching the surface. To remove stains, you can fill the pan with hot water, add a squirt of dish detergent, and scrub with the nylon scouring pad. Rinse the pan with hot water, then place it on the stove and boil the water. For more stubborn stains, a mixture of water and vinegar or baking soda can be used. It is important to note that you should not use aerosol sprays or cooking sprays as they can impair the non-stick properties of the pans.

How to Clean Scanpan Stainless Steel Pans

Start cleaning immediately after use

To clean your Scanpan stainless steel pans, it is recommended to start the cleaning process immediately after use. Allow the pan to cool, then fill it with cold water from the faucet. Let it soak—the water will never get hotter than lukewarm, but be sure to point the handle away from the edge of the countertop to avoid any accidents.

Once the pan has soaked, empty it out and place it in the sink. Add a few drops of gentle kitchen detergent to the pan and use the green side of a standard kitchen scourer on all sides of the pan, including the bottom. Work the sponge into the contoured sides of the pan, scrubbing gently but firmly.

Rinse the pan with hot water, then place it on the stove. To remove any remaining stains, such as discolouration from heat, make a paste from a tablespoon of baking soda and water. Dip a damp, non-abrasive cloth into the paste and scrub the affected areas in a circular motion. Rinse the pan thoroughly.

Always ensure your pan is completely clean before putting it away. Do not leave any food or fat residue, as this can cause sticking during the next use. If necessary, re-clean the pan using hot water.

Use hot water and detergent

To clean your Scanpan stainless steel pans, you can use hot water and detergent. First, fill your sink with 1 gallon of hot water and add a squirt of dish detergent. Then, place your cookware in the sink and scrub it with a nylon scouring pad. The nylon material will scrub away any residue without scratching the surface of your pan.

After you've scrubbed away any visible residue, rinse the cookware with hot water. Then, place the pan on the stove and pour in water and vinegar, using a ratio of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water. Ensure you use enough liquid to submerge the entire stained area. Turn the burner to high heat and bring the water to a boil. Let the water boil for about 5 minutes, then remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Once the water has cooled, discard most of it, leaving just a small amount to help with the cleaning process. Scrub the stained area again with your nylon scouring pad, then thoroughly rinse the cookware.

If there are any remaining stains, such as discolouration caused by heat, create a paste using a tablespoon or two of baking soda and just enough water. Dip a damp, non-abrasive cloth into the paste and scrub the affected areas in a circular motion. Finally, rinse the cookware thoroughly.

Avoid harsh, abrasive cleaning tools

To keep your Scanpan stainless steel pans in good condition, it's important to avoid harsh, abrasive cleaning tools. While it may be tempting to reach for steel wool or metal scouring pads to tackle stubborn stains, these can actually do more harm than good. Such abrasive tools can scratch the non-stick surface of your pan, making food stick to it and compromising its performance.

Instead, opt for soft sponges, dishcloths, or nylon scouring pads. These materials are much gentler on the pan's surface and will effectively remove food residue and stains without causing damage. For example, a nylon scouring pad can be used with hot water and dish detergent to scrub away at stains, providing a thorough clean without scratching the surface.

If you're dealing with particularly stubborn stains, you can fill the pan with water and add a tablespoon of baking soda for every 2 cups of water. Bring this solution to a boil, then let it cool before emptying and rinsing the pan. This method can help remove burnt-on food and stains without resorting to harsh cleaning tools.

Additionally, avoid using abrasive cleansers or scouring pads when cleaning the exterior of your pans. While minor scratches on the exterior may not affect the pan's performance, they can detract from its aesthetic appeal.

Dry with a towel

Once your Scanpan cookware has been thoroughly cleaned, it's time to dry it with a towel. This step is crucial to prevent rust and maintain the longevity of your cookware. Here's a detailed guide on how to dry your Scanpan stainless steel pans with a towel:

Select an Appropriate Towel: Choose a clean, dry towel that is made of absorbent material. It is recommended to use a soft and lint-free cloth or towel specifically designated for drying cookware. Avoid using abrasive or scratchy towels as they may damage the surface of your Scanpan pans.

Wipe Down the Interior: Start by gently wiping down the interior surface of your pan with the towel. Ensure that you thoroughly dry all areas, including the base and sides. Be gentle yet firm in your wiping motions to absorb any moisture that may be lingering after the cleaning process.

Dry the Exterior and Handle: After addressing the interior, move on to the exterior surfaces, including the handle. Use the towel to wipe down the exterior of the pan, ensuring that you cover all angles and curves of the cookware. Pay extra attention to the handle, as it can be a hotspot for moisture accumulation. Make sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent any rust or water stains from forming.

Reach All Nooks and Crannies: Scanpan cookware often has intricate designs and contours. Take your time to ensure that all nooks and crannies are completely dry. Use the tip of your towel or a corner of it to reach into tight spaces and absorb any hidden moisture. This attention to detail will help maintain the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your cookware.

Be Gentle and Thorough: While drying your Scanpan stainless steel pans, it's important to be both gentle and thorough in your approach. Avoid applying too much pressure, but ensure that you cover every inch of the pan's surface. Remember, the goal is to remove all traces of moisture to prevent rust and maintain the longevity of your cookware.

Storing Your Scanpan: After your Scanpan pans are completely dry, you can proceed with storage. If you need to stack them, consider using fabric separators or dividers to prevent direct contact and avoid scratches. Proper storage will help maintain the condition of your cookware and ensure they remain rust-free.

By following these detailed steps for drying your Scanpan stainless steel pans with a towel, you will be able to effectively remove moisture, prevent rust, and extend the lifespan of your cookware. Remember to be gentle yet thorough, and always ensure your pans are completely dry before storing them away.

Store carefully

When storing your Scanpan, be cautious if you're stacking it with other cookware. Avoid placing pans directly on top of one another without some form of protection or divider to prevent scratches and scuff marks on the exterior and interior. Fabric separators, for instance, can be used to prevent cookware from rubbing against each other and are readily available for purchase online.

Scanpan's durability and excellent non-stick properties have earned the brand a loyal following. Proper care and maintenance will ensure your Scanpan serves you well for many years. Always clean and rinse your pan after each use, and ensure there is no food or fat residue left behind, as this can cause sticking during the next use. If necessary, re-clean using hot water.

Although Scanpan is known for its durability, it's still important to handle your cookware with care. Avoid using steel wool or other abrasive cleansers, as these can damage the non-stick surface and make food stick to the pan. Instead, opt for a soft sponge or dishcloth with soap and warm water for both the interior and exterior of your pan.

Additionally, it's recommended to avoid using aerosol or cooking sprays. The propellants in these products can impair the non-stick properties of the pans if not properly cleaned after each use. Instead, you can use your favourite oil, butter, or fat for taste. You don't need to use anything in your non-stick pans if you prefer not to.

Frequently asked questions