Stainless Steel Prep Table Pans: Cleaning And Care Guide

Stainless steel prep table pans are a staple in any kitchen, whether it's a commercial or home setting. They're durable, non-reactive, and resistant to corrosion. However, they're not impervious to messes and discolouration, so knowing how to clean them properly is essential to maintaining their quality and longevity. Here's a guide on how to clean stainless steel prep table pans effectively and efficiently.

Use a non-abrasive sponge and mild dish soap

To clean stainless steel prep table pans, you can use a non-abrasive sponge and a mild dish soap. This method is suitable for everyday cleanup. Start by filling your pan with hot water and a bit of mild dish soap. Then, use your non-abrasive sponge to scrub away any stuck-on food or residue. Rinse the pan with clean water and dry it with a microfiber cloth or towel to prevent water spots and streaking.

When cleaning stainless steel, it is important to go with the grain to avoid scratching the surface. Stainless steel has polish lines that look like grain lines, and you should always scrub in the same direction as these lines. This will help you achieve a complete clean and prevent scratches that can make the steel more susceptible to stains and rust.

You can also try adding a few drops of mild dish soap to a damp, non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth. Scrub away any stubborn bits of stuck-on food with this soapy sponge, ensuring you follow the direction of the grain. Rinse the pan surfaces again with hot water and dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and maintain the shine of your stainless steel.

For tougher stains or burnt-on food, you may need to use a commercial cleaner or a more abrasive cleaning method. However, for mild everyday cleanup, a non-abrasive sponge and mild dish soap should be sufficient to keep your stainless steel prep table pans clean and shiny.

Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia

Bleach is a very strong oxidizing agent that can cause stainless steel to rust. Even a small amount of bleach can oxidize steel, and even momentary exposure to bleach can leave stainless steel with ugly blotches and discolourations.

The protective layer of chromium oxide that forms when the chromium in stainless steel comes into contact with oxygen is what makes stainless steel "stainless". When this layer is compromised by abrasions or harsh cleaners like bleach, the stainless quality of the steel is compromised, and rust or pit marks can form and spread rapidly.

High-grade versions of stainless steel may initially withstand the effects of bleach, but even these will eventually succumb and be destroyed. So, whether it's a sink or an appliance, avoid using bleach to clean anything that is fully or partially made of stainless steel.

Ammonia is also a harsh chemical that should be avoided when cleaning stainless steel. While ammonia is not as corrosive as bleach, it can still damage the surface of stainless steel and cause it to become discoloured and dull. In addition, ammonia can be dangerous to use if not properly diluted and ventilated.

Instead of using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, there are several gentler and more effective ways to clean stainless steel. For example, a mixture of warm water and a mild dish soap can be used to clean away most dirt and grime. For more stubborn stains, a paste made from baking soda and water can be applied to the affected area and scrubbed gently with a non-abrasive sponge. This method is safe for stainless steel and will not cause scratching or discolouration.

Another option for effectively cleaning stainless steel is good old-fashioned soapy water, followed by a polish with a small amount of stainless steel cleaner or mineral oil.

Remove burnt-on food with a baking soda and water paste

Burnt-on food can be a real pain to clean, but with a little elbow grease and some baking soda, you can get your stainless steel prep table pans looking like new again. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Remove as Much Food as Possible

Start by scraping away as much of the burnt-on food as you can. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to get rid of any stuck-on food bits. It's important to do this before you begin the deep cleaning process, as it will make the job a little easier.

Step 2: Make a Baking Soda and Water Paste

In a small bowl, mix together baking soda and water to form a paste. You'll want to make enough paste to cover the scorched portions of your pan. A good ratio to use is 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. For example, mix 1 cup of baking soda with 1/3 cup of water. The paste should be thick enough to fully coat the burnt areas.

Step 3: Apply the Paste to the Pan

Take your paste and generously apply it to the burnt areas of your pan. Make sure the paste is thick enough to fully coat the problem areas. You can also try covering the bottom of the pan with a thin layer of warm water and then adding the baking soda to create a paste directly in the pan.

Step 4: Let the Paste Sit

Once you've applied the paste, let it sit for a few hours or even overnight. This will give the baking soda time to work its magic and loosen the burnt-on food. The longer you let it sit, the easier it will be to remove the burnt food.

Step 5: Scrub the Pan

After the paste has had time to work, it's time to scrub. Use a nylon brush or a non-abrasive scouring sponge to scrub away the burnt-on food. You may need to add more baking soda as you scrub to help further loosen the food. Continue scrubbing until all the burnt food is removed.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

Once your pan is free of burnt-on food, rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining paste and food particles. Then, dry the pan as you normally would. And that's it! Your stainless steel prep table pans should now be clean and ready to use again.

Tips and Tricks:

• For tougher stains, you can try boiling the paste. Apply the paste to the pan and then place the pan on the stove. Bring it to a boil and then remove it from the heat. Let the pan cool and then scrub as usual.
• For an even more heavy-duty cleaning, add white vinegar to the mix. Remove as much food and debris from the pan as possible, then add enough vinegar to cover the bottom of the pan. Boil the vinegar for a few minutes, remove from the heat, and add baking soda. You'll get a fizzing reaction that will help break down the burnt-on food.
• Always make sure to rinse and dry your pans thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots and discolouration.

Remove water spots with a damp sponge and baking soda

Water spots on stainless steel pans are a common problem, but they can be easily removed with a damp sponge and baking soda. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, ensure that your pan is dry. Next, dampen your sponge and sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto it. Gently scrub the water spots with the sponge, applying a little pressure as needed. The baking soda will act as a mild abrasive, breaking down the water spots without damaging the surface of the pan. Continue scrubbing until the water spots disappear. Finally, rinse the pan with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.

This method is particularly effective for removing smaller water spots and can also be used to prevent water spots from forming in the first place. Simply sprinkle some baking soda onto a damp sponge and wipe down the pan after washing. Be sure to dry the pan immediately after to prevent water spots and maintain its shine.

In addition to removing water spots, baking soda can also be used to tackle tougher stains on stainless steel pans. For burnt-on food or oil, create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply the paste to the affected area and let it sit for several hours before washing and drying the pan as usual. Alternatively, add a few spoonfuls of baking soda to the pan, along with enough water to cover the burnt areas, and bring it to a boil. Simmer until most of the water has evaporated, then scrub away any remaining buildup with a non-abrasive sponge.

When cleaning stainless steel pans, it's important to use non-abrasive tools to avoid scratching the surface. Avoid using steel wool or harsh chemicals like bleach or oven cleaner, as these can cause permanent damage. Instead, opt for soft sponges or cloths, and gentle dish soap or commercial cleaners specifically designed for stainless steel, like Bar Keepers Friend. Always allow the pan to cool down before cleaning and be sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent water spots and maintain its shine.

Sanitize with a food-safe, stainless steel-specific product

To sanitise your stainless steel prep table pans with a food-safe, stainless steel-specific product, follow these steps:

First, ensure that you have a non-abrasive or "stainless steel-approved" scrubber to hand, as using the wrong tools can scratch the steel and make it vulnerable to corrosion.

Next, check the manufacturer's instructions for specific washing tips. Although many types of cookware are dishwasher-safe, hand-washing is typically best for stainless steel. Always let your pans cool down before cleaning to avoid warping.

For everyday cleaning, scrub your pans with hot, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. If you're dealing with stuck-on food, fill the pan with enough soapy water to cover the residue, bring it to a boil, and then scrape with a spatula or wooden spoon. Allow the pan to cool before washing as usual.

For tougher stains, you can use a commercial cleaner such as Bar Keepers Friend. First, moisten the pan and saturate any burnt food. Then, add the cleaner and sprinkle it onto the bottom of the pan to form a paste. Scrub the paste into the scorched food with a non-abrasive scrubber or soft cloth, and then rinse the pan with clean water. Repeat if necessary.

Another option for removing burnt food is to use a combination of vinegar and baking soda. Fill the bottom of your pan with water, add 1 cup of vinegar, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Briefly mix the solution, empty the pan, and then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge to remove any remaining food particles.

To remove water spots, dampen your pan and rub it down with a moist sponge and baking soda. Always dry pans immediately after washing to prevent water spots.

Frequently asked questions