The Best Way To Clean Your Staub Pan

Staub pans are made of cast iron and coated in enamel, which makes them durable and resilient. However, this also means that they require special care and attention when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your Staub pan stays in top condition.

Use a soft brush or sponge, not metal

When cleaning your Staub pan, it is important to use a soft brush or sponge, and not a metal one. This is because the enamel cooking surface can be damaged by metal utensils, which can cause scratching, chipping, and damage to the pan. Therefore, it is recommended to use silicone or wooden tools to prevent the interior enamel from scratching.

When cleaning your Staub pan, always allow the pan to cool down before cleaning. This is because the extreme difference in temperature between the hot pan and cold water may cause the pan to crack or break. Once the pan has cooled, it can be cleaned with warm water, liquid dish soap, and a soft sponge or brush. The pan should then be dried completely to prevent water spots.

It is also important to note that while Staub pans are dishwasher-safe, it is recommended to hand wash the pans to prolong their beauty. When washing the pan, avoid banging it against other products or hard surfaces, as this could cause chipping or scratching.

In summary, when cleaning a Staub pan, always use a soft brush or sponge, never metal, to prevent scratching and damaging the enamel surface.

Avoid harsh chemicals and scrubbing agents

When cleaning your Staub pan, it's important to avoid harsh chemicals and scrubbing agents. These can damage the enamel coating, reducing the sheen and colour of your pan. Instead, opt for mild dish detergent and warm water.

Firstly, let the pan cool down for at least 15 minutes after cooking. Then, drizzle in some mild dish soap and fill the pan with warm water. Use a soft cloth, sponge, or non-abrasive brush or scrubber to gently clean any food deposits or stubborn spots. Rinse the pan with warm water and dry it thoroughly before storing it in a dry place.

If you're dealing with stubborn residue, you can try sprinkling baking soda at the bottom of the pan and covering it with warm water. Bring this to a boil and scrub with a brush. You can also try using a non-abrasive cleaner, such as Bar Keepers Friend, with a soft brush or sponge. These methods are effective in removing tough stains without damaging the enamel.

Another important tip is to avoid using metal utensils or knives, as these can scratch and damage the enamel. Stick to silicone or wooden utensils to protect the coating. Additionally, always wash your Staub pan by hand instead of placing it in the dishwasher. While some Staub products are dishwasher-safe, hand washing is recommended to preserve the beauty and performance of the enamel coating.

Soak in warm, soapy water

Soaking your Staub pan in warm, soapy water is an effective way to clean it, especially if there are stubborn food bits stuck to the pan. Firstly, let the pan cool down for at least 15 minutes after cooking. Then, fill the pan with warm water and add a mild dish detergent. You can leave the pan to soak for 15-20 minutes, or for the best results, leave it to soak overnight.

Once the pan has soaked, use a soft cloth, sponge, or brush to gently clean any remaining food deposits or stubborn spots. It's important to avoid using metal brushes or scouring pads as these can damage the enamel. After cleaning, thoroughly dry your Staub pan before storing it in a dry place. Leaving moisture in the pan can cause rusting.

Dry thoroughly to prevent rusting

To prevent rusting, it is important to dry your Staub pan thoroughly before storing it away. Leaving moisture in the pan can cause rusting over time. This is easily done by hand-washing and drying your Staub pan, rather than using a dishwasher.

If you are hand-washing your Staub pan, it is recommended to let the pan cool down for at least 15 minutes after cooking. Then, fill the pan with warm water and a mild dish soap, and scrub with a non-abrasive brush or sponge. Rinse the pan with warm water, and dry it thoroughly before storing it in a dry place. Leaving the lid slightly ajar can also help prevent rusting.

If you are using a dishwasher, it is important to note that this may dull the enamel over time. Therefore, it is recommended to hand-wash your Staub pan to prolong its beauty and ensure that it is thoroughly dried before storing.

In rare instances, if your Staub pan has been left wet for too long and has developed light spot rusting, you can remove the rust by scrubbing the affected area with baking soda and then rubbing cooking oil onto it to prevent further rusting.

Use baking soda for tough stains

Baking soda is a great option for cleaning your Staub pan, especially for tough stains. It is a non-toxic, inexpensive household ingredient with mild abrasive properties.

To start, cover the bottom of your Staub 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.

For stubborn stains, try boiling a solution of baking soda and water in the pan. Use around 1/4 to 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, and as the water evaporates, scrub off the film of baking soda and food residue with a scrubby sponge or kitchen scrub brush.

If you have burnt-on food or tough stains, a stronger method is required. First, fill your Staub pan with about 1 quart of water, or more if necessary to cover the burnt area. Bring the water to a boil on medium heat. Then, add 2 tablespoons of baking soda and stir with a wooden spoon. Let the mixture simmer for several minutes. Finally, empty the contents and rinse the pan with warm water, then wipe it dry.

For the exterior of your Staub pan, make a paste from baking soda and water, and scrub it onto the pot with a Scotch-Brite pad to remove spills and grime.

Frequently asked questions