Get Rid Of That Greasy Film: Clean Your Pans!

Greasy residue on pans is a common problem, especially with steel pans. The best way to avoid this is to clean the pan as soon as it is cool enough to handle after cooking. If the residue is very mild, regular washing soap or liquid and a scrubber may work. For more stubborn residue, a mixture of white vinegar, water, and baking soda can be used. This can be brought to a boil in the pan, loosening the burnt residue, and then washed off with regular soap.

Use vinegar, salt and baking soda

To clean a sticky greasy film on a pan with vinegar, salt, and baking soda, follow these steps:

Firstly, create a mixture in the pan. Use a 1:1 ratio of white vinegar and baking soda (2 tablespoons of each is a good amount) and add enough water to cover the bottom of the pan. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring it to dissolve and continuing to stir for 5 minutes to encourage any burnt residue to loosen.

After 5 minutes, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool completely. Then, discard the vinegar solution and rinse the pan with warm water.

Next, add some dish soap to the pan and scrub the surface with a sponge or washcloth to remove any remaining residue. Rinse the pan again and dry it with a clean towel.

This method can also be used to clean stainless steel pans. Simply wet the pan with water and add enough baking soda to create a paste or slurry. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then scrub off any crusty food or burnt-on grease with a scouring pad or the scrubby side of a sponge. Repeat this process or leave the mixture to sit overnight if the grease is still not coming off.

For tougher stains, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of water to the pan and bring it to a boil. As the water evaporates, scrub off the film of baking soda and grease with a scrubby sponge or kitchen scrub brush.

If you have a cast iron pan, refrain from using vinegar or other acidic items as these can create rust and destroy the pan's seasoning. Instead, cover the bottom of the pan with a thin layer of baking soda and add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water to make a paste. Scrub the pan with a stiff-bristle brush or scouring pad, then rinse and repeat if necessary. Finally, dry the pan and rub the entire surface with oil. Place the pan on a stovetop burner or in an oven set to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour.

Soak in hot water

If your pan has a sticky, greasy film on it, the first thing to do is fill it with hot water and let it soak. This is a simple but effective method to help shift dried-on food, grease, and oil.

Simply fill the pan with hot water and leave it to soak. The hotter the water, the better, as this will help to loosen the residue. You can also add a small amount of dish soap to the water to help break down the grease and oil. Leave the pan to soak for several hours or even overnight for the best results.

Once the pan has soaked, the burnt-on grease should be rehydrated and easier to remove. At this point, you can dump the water and begin to scrub the pan with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth and some dish soap. This will help to shift any remaining grease and food particles. Be sure to use a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching and damaging the pan's surface.

After scrubbing, rinse the pan with warm water to remove any leftover soap, food, or grease. Finally, dry the pan with a clean towel, and your pan should be restored to its former glory!

Use a non-abrasive scrubber

To clean a greasy, sticky film off your pan, it is important to use a non-abrasive scrubber. Non-stick pans are delicate and can be damaged by abrasive cleaning tools, so it is best to stick with a soft-bristled brush or a sponge.

Firstly, fill your pan with warm, soapy water and let it soak. This will help to loosen any stuck-on food or grease. If your pan is particularly greasy, you can add a teaspoon of dish soap to the water to help break up the grease. Let the pan soak for 10-20 minutes.

Next, use your non-abrasive scrubber to gently scrub away at the grease. Focus on the areas of the pan with burnt-on grease, using a gentle, circular motion. Rinse the scrubber and the pan often to prevent the spread of grease and to check your progress.

Once you have removed the grease, wash the pan again with warm, soapy water and your non-abrasive scrubber. Rinse the pan thoroughly and dry it immediately with a soft dish towel or paper towels.

It is important to note that you should avoid using steel wool, chain mail, or heavy-duty scrubbing brushes on non-stick pans, as these can scratch and damage the coating.

Avoid metal utensils

While stainless steel is a durable material, using metal utensils with your pans can cause damage over time. Metal utensils can scratch the surface of your pans, leaving them vulnerable to rust and stains. Even the most durable stainless steel pans can be scratched by metal utensils. These scratches can affect the performance of your cookware, as well as its appearance.

To keep your pans in the best condition, opt for utensils made from alternative materials. Silicone, wood, and plastic utensils are all ideal for use with stainless steel pans. These materials are gentle on the surface of your pans and will not cause scratching or damage.

By avoiding metal utensils, you can maintain the pristine condition of your cookware and ensure that it remains rust and stain-free. This simple step can help to extend the lifespan of your pans, keeping them in optimal condition for years to come.

Additionally, when it comes to cleaning your pans, it's important to avoid abrasive cleaners or pads. While you may be tempted to use scouring pads or harsh chemicals to remove stubborn grease or residue, these can also scratch and damage the surface. Instead, opt for gentle cleaning agents and soft sponges or cloths to effectively clean your pans without causing any harm. White vinegar can also be used to remove residue.

Try Bar Keeper's Friend

Bar Keepers Friend is a highly effective cleanser that can be used to combat grease and grime on your pans. It is a bleach-free, oxalic-acid-based powdered cleaning product that is ideal for stainless steel items, though it can be used on other surfaces, too.

To use, wet the surface of your pan and sprinkle on a generous amount of Bar Keepers Friend. You can let it sit for about 10 seconds before using the soft side of a sponge to scrub in circular motions without adding any water other than what was already on the sponge. For very greasy pans, you may want to start scrubbing with steel wool. Once you've mostly cleared the surface of the pan, switch to a soft sponge or rag.

Be sure to rinse the product off your pan after a maximum of one minute to avoid discolouration and scratches. It is also important to wear gloves when using this product, as it can irritate the skin.

Frequently asked questions