Green Pan Burns: Quick And Easy Solutions

GreenPan is a brand of ceramic non-stick cookware. If your GreenPan has burn marks, there are several methods you can try to remove them. The manufacturer recommends filling the pan halfway with water, bringing it to a boil, and then using a melamine sponge to wipe away the carbonization. Other methods include using baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap; using lemon slices and water; using Bar Keepers Friend; using aluminium foil and baking soda; or using a dishwasher tablet.

Boil water and washing-up liquid

To remove burn marks from a GreenPan, start by emptying any loose food from the pan. Then, fill the pan halfway with warm water and add a bit of washing-up liquid. Bring the water to a boil, then turn off the stove and leave the pan to cool. After it has cooled, the burnt food should easily wipe away.

If the burnt-on food is particularly stubborn, you can try boiling a strong baking soda solution in the pan. Start with 2 tablespoons of baking soda per cup of water and boil for 15-20 minutes. The longer and stronger the solution, the more effective it will be at removing the burnt-on food.

It is important to note that you should avoid using anything abrasive to clean your GreenPan, as this may damage the non-stick surface. Always wash your GreenPan by hand and avoid using abrasive detergents, steel wool, or iron sponges.

Use a melamine sponge

Melamine sponges are an effective way to remove burn marks from your GreenPan without damaging the coating. These sponges are designed to erase carbonization, which is the result of overheating and the use of the wrong type of oil or fat.

To use a melamine sponge, first, fill your pan halfway with water and bring it to a boil for about 2 minutes. Then, pour out the water and place the pan on a sturdy surface, such as a wooden cutting board. The pan should still be warm but not hot to the touch. You can now carefully use the melamine sponge on the warm surface to wipe away any stains or burnt spots. Just wet the sponge and wipe!

If you don't have a melamine sponge, you can purchase GreenPan's own Restore Sponge, which is a specially designed melamine sponge that protects your pan's coating while removing stains and spots.

Use a baking soda solution

If you have burnt food sticking to your GreenPan, a baking soda solution can help release it. The baking soda has mild abrasive properties and its alkaline pH can help neutralize acidic burnt foods. It can also combine with an acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice, to create a fizzing reaction that helps loosen burnt food.

Step 1: Remove Loose Food

Start by removing any loose food from the pan.

Step 2: Boil Water

Partly fill the pan with water and bring it to a boil. You can also add a small amount of dish soap to the water.

Step 3: Let it Cool

Once the water has reached a boil, turn off the stove and let the pan cool down.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Soda Solution

After the pan has cooled, empty the water and prepare a baking soda solution. The solution should be made by mixing baking soda with water to form a paste. The ratio of baking soda to water will depend on the severity of the burnt food. A good starting point is 2 tablespoons of baking soda per cup of water.

Step 5: Apply the Solution

Apply the baking soda solution liberally to the burnt areas of the pan. Make sure the paste is thick enough to fully coat the affected areas.

Step 6: Let it Sit

Let the baking soda solution sit on the pan for a few hours or even overnight. This will give the solution time to work on loosening the burnt food.

Step 7: Scrub the Pan

After the solution has had time to work, use a nylon brush or non-stick surface-safe sponge to scrub the pan. Add more baking soda if needed and scrub until the burnt food is removed.

Step 8: Rinse and Dry

Once the burnt food is removed, rinse the pan with warm water and dry it thoroughly.

Tips:

• For more heavy-duty cleaning, you can add white vinegar to the baking soda solution. The combination of vinegar and baking soda will create a stronger fizzing reaction that can help break down burnt food.
• Always allow your GreenPan to cool down before cleaning it. Plunging a hot pan into cold water can cause thermal shock, which can warp the pan and shatter any glass lids.
• Avoid using abrasive detergents, steel wool, or iron sponges when cleaning your GreenPan, as these can damage the non-stick coating.

Avoid high heat and non-recommended oils

To avoid damaging your GreenPan products, it is recommended that you use low to medium heat settings. This is because higher temperatures will damage the coating over time, and high heat can also cause the release of harmful toxins, depending on the type of coating on your pan.

GreenPan's Thermolon™ coating distributes heat more effectively than traditional coatings, so your pan will get hot enough to sear a steak even on low to medium heat.

It is also recommended to avoid all oils in spray form, as the tiny particulates will heat up quickly and burn, creating a layer of carbonization on your pan. Instead, use high-smoke-point oils (like grapeseed, canola, or refined avocado oil) for high-heat cooking.

Additionally, always preheat your pans before adding ingredients and avoid leaving your pan to cool by plunging it into cold water, as this can cause thermal shock and warp your pan.

Soak in vinegar

If your GreenPan is visibly charred, a mixture of white vinegar, water, and baking soda should help loosen and remove any black residue.

Step 1: Create the Mixture

Create a slurry of white vinegar, water, and baking soda directly in your non-stick pan. Pour enough water to cover the bottom of the pan, along with 2 tablespoons of both white vinegar and baking soda.

Step 2: Boil the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a boil and stir to dissolve using a silicone or wooden spoon. Continue stirring for 5 minutes to encourage any burnt residue to loosen.

Step 3: Cool the Mixture

Allow the mixture to cool completely after boiling. Discard the vinegar solution and rinse the pan with warm water.

Step 4: Wash the Pan

Wash the pan with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Avoid using abrasive detergents, steel wool, or iron sponges, as these can damage the pan's coating. Always allow your pan to cool before washing to avoid thermal shock, which can warp the pan and shatter glass lids.

Frequently asked questions