Clean Your Pan: Hot Or Cold?

Cleaning a hot pan can be dangerous, but there are ways to do it effectively and without damaging your cookware. One method is to use hot water and the rough side of a sponge to scrub off residue while the pan is still hot. This prevents clutter in the sink and warping of the pan. If you forget to do this, you can add water to the pan, bring it to a boil, and then clean it.

Another method is to sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto hot grease, let it sit for a few minutes, mix it, and then scoop the gravy-like mixture into a bowl. This method is effective because baking soda releases carbon dioxide when heated, which displaces oxygen and can extinguish small grease fires.

Other methods for cleaning a hot pan include using a dishwasher tablet, boiled lemons, or aluminium foil and baking soda. It is important to note that some methods, such as using cold water, can cause thermal shock and damage pans.

Use hot water to prevent warping

Cleaning a hot pan with hot water is an effective way to prevent the pan from warping. Warping occurs when a pan is subjected to rapid temperature changes, especially if the pan is made of cheap materials. By using hot water to clean the pan while it is still hot, you eliminate the risk of thermal shock, which can cause the pan to deform.

When cleaning a hot pan, it is important to prioritise your safety. Make sure to turn off the heat source and remove the pan from direct heat before starting the cleaning process. Use a sponge or scouring pad with a "rough" side to scrub the pan under hot running water. Most modern-day pans can withstand cleaning with hot water without warping. However, it is important to note that cast iron pans should not be cooled too quickly, as they can crack.

If you are unable to clean the pan immediately while it is still hot, you can add a small amount of hot water to the pan, let it sit, and then clean it later. This will help loosen any food residue, making it easier to clean. Alternatively, you can deglaze the pan by adding a cup of hot water and pouring off the liquid before allowing the pan to cool completely. This will give you a head start on cleaning without risking warping.

By following these simple steps and using hot water to clean your pans while they are still hot, you can effectively prevent warping and keep your cookware in good condition.

Try baking soda and vinegar

To clean a pan with baking soda and vinegar, start by removing as much food and debris from the pan as possible. Next, add enough vinegar to the pan to cover the bottom with at least 1/2 inch of liquid. Boil the vinegar in the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and add 1 cup of baking soda. This will create a fizzing reaction, so it's best to do this in the sink. Set the pot aside and wait for the fizzing and bubbling to stop. Discard the liquid and scrub the pan with a nylon scrub brush or scouring sponge, adding more baking soda if necessary. Finally, rinse and dry the pan.

This method can be used for stainless steel or aluminum pans. Baking soda is great for cleaning burnt pans because it has mild abrasive properties and its alkaline pH can help neutralize acidic burnt foods. When combined with an acid like vinegar, it creates a fizzing reaction that helps loosen burnt food.

For a variation on this method, you can try the deglazing technique. First, heat the pan until a droplet of water sizzles. Then, add 1 cup of water or a mixture of 1/2 water and 1/2 vinegar to the hot pan and let it boil. Use a spatula or scraper to deglaze the bottom of the pan, loosening bits of burnt food. Pour out the liquid and sprinkle the bottom of the pan with baking soda. Let the pan cool, then scrub the pot bottom vigorously with a wet scouring sponge or nylon brush. Wash and dry the pan as usual.

Boiled lemons can help

• Start by quartering two or three lemons. You can also cut them into smaller pieces, such as eighths, to ensure they cover the bottom of the pan.
• Place the lemon pieces in the pan, covering any burnt areas.
• Fill the pan with a few inches of water, ensuring the burnt parts are submerged.
• Turn on the heat and bring the water to a boil. Continue boiling for 5-10 minutes. The acid in the lemons, combined with the boiling water, will help loosen and lift off the burnt food particles.
• Once you see the food particles floating to the surface, turn off the heat and let the water cool down.
• After the water has cooled, discard it, along with the lemons.
• Use a scouring pad or a scrub brush to remove any leftover burnt-on bits. If needed, add a small amount of dish soap to help with the process.
• Rinse the pan thoroughly with clean water.

This method is not only effective in removing burnt food but also leaves your pan smelling fresh and citrusy. It's important to note that while lemons are great for cleaning pans, they are not suitable for cleaning all surfaces due to their acidity. For example, lemons can damage natural stone countertops, certain types of cookware, and rubber seals on appliances.

Dishwasher tablets work well

Dishwasher tablets are a great option for cleaning a pan while it's still hot. They are designed to tackle hard water, remove stains, and dissolve grease and fat, so they can be used to clean things beyond just your dishwasher.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a dishwasher tablet to clean a pan while it's still hot:

• Cover the bottom of the pan with a small amount of water and warm it up on low heat.
• Turn off the heat. It is important to exercise caution when working with a hot pan.
• Using a gloved hand, take a dishwasher tablet and begin scraping it over the burnt or scorched areas of the pan.
• Rinse the pan with warm soapy water to remove any remaining residue.
• If there are still some stubborn stains or burnt-on bits, you can repeat the process or try creating a paste with the dishwasher tablet and a little water. Apply the paste to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing again.

It is worth noting that different dishwasher tablets may yield varying results, so it is recommended to use Finish Powerball Tablets or a similar product. Additionally, always remember to wear protective gloves when using cleaning agents and try to avoid inhaling any fumes.

Avoid thermal shock

Thermal shock can ruin your pans, even the expensive ones. It occurs when a hot object is subjected to a drastic drop in temperature, or vice versa, causing the object to fracture, split, or even explode. Metal expands as it heats up and contracts as it cools down. When a hot pan is placed under cold water, the expansion and contraction are forced at an unnatural speed, resulting in warping or cracking.

To avoid thermal shock, always let a hot pan cool down gradually. If you need to make space, place the pan on a trivet or another heat-proof surface. If you're using granite countertops, make sure to wipe them clean first so that the pan doesn't sit in a puddle of water. You can also speed up the cooling process by adding small amounts of tepid water.

If you're in a hurry and don't have time to let the pan cool down gradually, a simple solution is to use hot water instead of cold. The hot water will not warp the pans and will make it easier to remove any residue.

By being mindful of these simple tips, you can prevent thermal shock and keep your pans in good condition for a long time.

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