Simple Guide To Clean The Exterior Of Pans

Cleaning the outside of a pan can be a challenging task, especially when dealing with burnt food, scorch marks, grease splatters, and stubborn stains. The good news is that there are several effective methods to tackle this issue. One approach is to use a strong dishwashing soap or white vinegar to cut through the grease. For extremely greasy surfaces, a cream degreaser can be utilised. Another technique involves creating a paste from baking soda and water, applying it to the pan, and then scrubbing it clean. This method is particularly useful for removing baked-on sauces, cheese, or burnt food. Additionally, specific cleaning methods cater to different types of pans, such as aluminium, stainless steel, and copper. While aluminium pans can be cleaned with salt and lemon water, stainless steel pans respond well to gentle scrubbing with baking soda. Copper pans, on the other hand, can be treated with vinegar, lemon juice, and salt. With these tips in mind, restoring the outside of your pan to its original condition is achievable.

Degrease with vinegar or dish soap

To degrease the outside of a pan, you can use vinegar or a strong dishwashing soap. If you're using vinegar, start by filling a tub with warm water and add one part vinegar to two parts water. Soak your pan in this mixture and use a scrubbing pad to wash the grease off. For extremely greasy surfaces, you can also use a cream degreaser.

If you're using dish soap, squirt it all over the bottom of the pan. Then, sprinkle a few pinches of salt and a few pinches of baking soda on top. Use steel wool to rub the mixture into the pan. Finally, lay paper towels across the bottom of the pan, drench them with white vinegar, and let the mixture sit for a few minutes.

Remove baked-on grime with a baking soda paste

Removing baked-on grime with a baking soda paste is an effective way to clean the outside of your pans. This method works on all types of pans, including stainless steel and cast iron.

To start, create a paste using three parts baking soda to one part water. Apply this paste to the outside of your pan, ensuring that it covers all the baked-on grime. Leave the paste on the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, using a non-scratch sponge or scrubbing pad, scrub the pan gently until the stains are lifted. Finish by wiping the pan with a microfiber cloth to restore its shine.

If you are dealing with particularly stubborn grime, you can try a stronger cleaning agent. For example, Bar Keepers Friend is a popular choice that can be used in the same way as the baking soda paste. Simply apply it to the pan, let it sit, and then scrub gently to remove the stains.

Remember, it is important to avoid using abrasive sponges or steel wool on the outside of your pans, especially if they have a non-stick coating. With regular cleaning and the right techniques, you can keep your pans looking like new!

Clean the bottom of the pan with a baking soda and water paste

To clean the bottom of a pan with a baking soda and water paste, start by creating a thick paste using three parts baking soda to one part water. Apply this paste to the bottom of the pan, ensuring that the entire surface is covered. Leave the paste on the pan for around 10 minutes. Then, using a non-scratch sponge or scrubbing pad, scrub the pan until the stains have been lifted. Finish by wiping the pan with a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining residue.

This method is particularly effective for removing stubborn stains and burnt-on grease from the bottom of a pan. The baking soda and water paste can also be used to clean the inside of a burnt pan. Simply apply the paste to the affected area, leave for a few minutes, and then scrub clean. For extra tough burns, you can try soaking the bottom of the pan in a mixture of vinegar and baking soda before scrubbing with a pad.

It is important to note that this cleaning method should not be used on non-stick pans as it may damage the coating. Instead, a gentle dish soap and water solution is recommended for cleaning the exterior of non-stick pans. Additionally, always avoid placing pans in the dishwasher, especially cast iron and non-stick pans, as it can ruin them.

Clean aluminium pans with salt and lemon water

Aluminium pans are great for cooking, but they can be a little high maintenance when it comes to cleaning. Over time, they will tarnish and you'll find dirt and stains sticking stubbornly to the metal. Luckily, there are some easy ways to clean your aluminium pans with simple household products.

One effective method is to use salt and lemon water. Start by filling your aluminium pan with warm water, leaving one to two inches of space at the top. Then, squeeze the juice of one lemon into the water. You can also add the lemon halves into the water for extra cleaning power. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it bubble away for 10-15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size of your pan—smaller saucepans will only need 10 minutes, while larger pots will need closer to 15 minutes. Once the time is up, pour out the lemon water and let the pan cool down for a few minutes. Finish by giving the pan a soapy scrub to remove any remaining residue, then rinse and dry with a microfiber cloth.

If you're dealing with particularly stubborn stains, you can modify the above method by adding salt to the lemon water. Simply squeeze the lemon juice into a small bowl, add a generous amount of salt, and stir to combine. You can also add the lemon halves to the mixture. Pour this solution into your aluminium pan and follow the same steps as before—bring the mixture to a boil, let it bubble for 10-15 minutes, then pour it out and let the pan cool. After that, give the pan a good scrub with dish soap, rinse, and dry.

With these simple steps, your aluminium pans will be clean, shiny, and ready for your next culinary creation!

Clean stainless steel pans with baking soda

Cleaning stainless steel pans with baking soda is an effective and inexpensive way to remove burnt food or oil. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Firstly, ensure the pan is dry. Flip the pan over and sprinkle baking soda evenly over the bottom. You can also add a small amount of water to the baking soda to make a paste.

Step 2: Apply the Baking Soda

Use a dry cloth to rub the baking soda into any burn marks on the pan.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

Rinse off any excess baking soda and dry the pan.

Alternatively, you can create a paste with gentle dish soap and baking soda. Apply this paste to any burnt areas and leave it on for several hours. Then, wash and dry the pan as normal.

For more stubborn stains, you can try a more intensive method. Add a few spoonfuls of baking soda to your pan, along with enough water to cover the burnt areas. Bring this mixture to a boil and simmer until most of the water has evaporated. Turn off the heat and wait until the pan is cool enough to handle. Scrub away any remaining residue with a non-abrasive sponge, and then wash the pan in hot, soapy water.

Baking soda is a great option for cleaning stainless steel pans as it is versatile and likely already in your kitchen. It is also less abrasive than some other cleaning methods, so it won't damage your pans. However, for tougher stains, you may need to scrub more with baking soda, and it may not return your pan to its original shine.

Frequently asked questions