Get Rid Of Lingering Garlic Smells On Your Pans

Garlic is a pungent ingredient that can leave a lingering smell on your hands, breath, home, and even your pans. While some people enjoy the fragrance, others may want to get rid of it. This article will provide tips and tricks on how to remove garlic odours, specifically from your pans. So, if you're looking for ways to get rid of that stubborn garlic smell from your cookware, read on!

Use stainless steel

If you're looking to get rid of the smell of garlic from your pans, one method you can try is using stainless steel. This method is commonly used to remove the smell of garlic from hands, but it can also be applied to pans.

To use this method, simply take a stainless steel object, such as a spoon, knife, or even your kitchen sink if it's made of stainless steel, and rub it on the surface of your pans under running water. You can also try using a "steel soap", which is a bar of stainless steel designed specifically for removing kitchen smells.

The reason why stainless steel works for removing garlic smells is due to the chemistry of garlic and stainless steel. Garlic contains sulfur molecules, which are responsible for its characteristic smell. When you cut or crush garlic, these sulfur molecules are transferred to any surface they come into contact with, including your skin, utensils, and pans.

Stainless steel is an alloy made primarily of iron and chromium. The chromium in stainless steel forms an oxide layer on the surface, which protects the iron from rusting and gives stainless steel its characteristic properties. It is believed that this oxide layer can react with the sulfur molecules from the garlic, causing them to cling to the surface of the stainless steel instead of your pans.

While there is limited scientific evidence to support this theory, it has been proven effective through various anecdotal evidence and experiments. So, if you're looking for a way to remove garlic smells from your pans, give stainless steel a try! It's a simple, inexpensive method that may just save your pans from that stubborn garlic odour.

Try lemon juice

Lemon juice is one of the most effective ways to get rid of garlic smells. To use this method, simply rub or spray your hands with lemon juice. You can also make your own citrus spray by adding the grated rind of a lemon to hot water. Allow the mixture to cool, then strain the water into a spray bottle.

Lemon juice can also be used to remove garlic smells from wooden cutting boards. First, rinse the board, then sprinkle salt or baking soda on the board. Finally, use half a lemon to rub the salt or soda into the board. Rinse the board and allow it to dry thoroughly.

Citrus fruits such as lemons can also be used to remove garlic smells from your breath. Drinking lemonade or eating a lemon can help to eliminate the smell.

Baking soda paste

If you're struggling to remove the smell of garlic from your pans, a baking soda paste could be the solution. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use it effectively:

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Soda Paste

Mix together a small amount of water and baking soda to form a paste. The exact measurements aren't crucial, but a ratio of one part water to two parts baking soda is recommended. You can adjust the quantities as needed to create a paste with a spreadable consistency.

Step 2: Apply the Paste to the Pan

Take the prepared paste and generously apply it to the affected areas of the pan. Use your fingers or a soft sponge to rub the paste in a gentle circular motion, ensuring it comes into contact with all the garlic-scented areas. Focus on areas where the garlic smell is strongest, as these areas will likely have the highest concentration of garlic oils.

Step 3: Let the Paste Sit

Once you've applied the paste, let it sit for a while. This step is crucial as it allows the baking soda to work its magic. Baking soda is a powerful odour absorber and will help neutralise the garlic smell. Leave the paste on the pan for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, you can let it sit for an hour or even longer.

Step 4: Rinse and Wash the Pan

After the paste has had sufficient time to work, it's time to rinse and wash the pan. First, use warm water to thoroughly rinse off the paste. Ensure that you rinse every area of the pan where the paste was applied. Then, wash the pan as you normally would, using a mild dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or harsh cleaning chemicals as these can damage the pan's surface.

Step 5: Dry and Inspect the Pan

After washing the pan, dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth or kitchen towel. Once the pan is dry, take a moment to inspect it and smell it. In most cases, you should notice a significant reduction in the garlic odour. If there is still a faint garlic smell, repeat the process, ensuring you apply the paste to all affected areas and let it sit for a more extended period.

Using a baking soda paste is an effective and gentle way to remove garlic odours from your pans without resorting to harsh chemicals. It may take a little time and elbow grease, but the results will be worth it!

Boiling vinegar and water

• Fill your pan with equal parts water and vinegar. The amount of liquid you use will depend on the size of your pan, but aim for a 1:1 ratio.
• Place the pan on the stove and turn the heat to high. Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Allow the liquid to boil for several minutes. The vinegar will help to neutralise the garlic odour, while the boiling water will help to loosen and remove any remaining food particles.
• Turn off the heat and allow the liquid to cool.
• Pour out the liquid and dispose of it down the sink. Be careful, as the liquid will still be hot.
• Wash the pan as usual with warm, soapy water and a sponge or scrubber. Ensure that you cover the entire surface area of the pan, including the sides and handle.
• Dry the pan thoroughly with a clean cloth or kitchen towel.

By following these steps, you should be able to effectively remove garlic smells and residue from your pans. This method is particularly useful if you do not have access to stainless steel utensils or a steel soap, or if you prefer not to use lemon or citrus-based solutions.

Mouthwash

After eating a garlicky meal, simply swish with a rinse to immediately mask the smell. If you're a garlic lover, consider carrying a travel-sized bottle in your bag to make sure it's always there when you need it.

Frequently asked questions