Removing Goo From Non-Stick Pans: A Quick Guide

Non-stick pans are a popular choice for home cooks due to their easy cleanup and stick-free cooking surface. However, even the most experienced chefs can find themselves facing a stubborn mess on their non-stick cookware. The good news is that there are several effective methods for removing sticky residue and returning your pan to its former glory.

Use oil to remove glue

Removing glue from a non-stick pan can be frustrating, especially when the sticker comes off in bits and pieces, leaving the glue behind. Using an abrasive will likely damage the surface of your pan, and you don't want to apply anything that isn't food-safe. The solution is simple and likely right in your kitchen cupboard: oil.

Any kind of cooking oil, from basic to exotic, will remove that stubborn glue from under the sticker. This method works on hard, non-absorbent surfaces, but be sure to test it first if you're applying oil to fabric or other absorbent materials.

Here's how to use oil to remove glue from a non-stick pan:

Step 1: Apply Oil to the Glue

Dab a few drops of oil onto the surface of a paper towel and place it on the glue smudge. You can use any cooking oil, such as peanut oil, salad oil, or olive oil, as long as it is safe for consumption.

Step 2: Let it Sit

Let the oil sit for a few minutes. This allows the oil to absorb into the glue, making it easier to remove.

Step 3: Wipe Away the Glue

After a few minutes, use a clean paper towel to wipe away the glue. It should come off easily. If there is any glue left over, simply repeat the process.

Step 4: Wash and Dry the Pan

Once all the glue is removed, wash the pan in warm, soapy water to remove any remaining oil. Dry the pan with a clean kitchen towel.

That's it! Your non-stick pan is now glue-free and ready to use. This method is a safe and effective way to remove glue without damaging the surface of your pan.

Try vinegar and baking soda

To get rid of goo on your non-stick pan, a simple paste made from two common household ingredients—baking soda and vinegar—can work wonders. This natural, inexpensive, and non-toxic cleaner is safe to use on kitchenware and can help remove grease and stains.

Here's how you can use it to get that goo off your non-stick pan:

Step 1: Create the Paste

In a small bowl, mix together baking soda and vinegar to form a paste. The exact measurements aren't crucial, but aim for a consistency that's thick enough to stick to the pan without being runny. You can adjust the amount of liquid or baking soda as needed.

Step 2: Apply the Paste to the Pan

Take your paste and generously apply it to the affected areas of the pan. Make sure the paste covers the entire gooey area. You can use a brush or a sponge to spread it evenly.

Step 3: Let it Sit

Allow the paste to sit on the pan for a few minutes. During this time, the natural chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar will start to break down the goo, making it easier to remove.

Step 4: Scrub Gently

After a few minutes, use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub the paste on the pan. The slight abrasiveness of the baking soda, combined with the chemical reaction, should help lift the goo off the non-stick surface.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Once the goo is gone, rinse the pan thoroughly with warm water to remove any residue. Dry the pan with a clean cloth or let it air dry.

And that's it! Your non-stick pan should now be goo-free and ready to use again. This method is a great alternative to using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that could damage the delicate non-stick coating. It's always a good idea to test any cleaning method on a small area of your pan first to ensure it doesn't cause any damage.

Clean with a non-abrasive scrubber

To clean a non-stick pan with a non-abrasive scrubber, start by allowing the pan to cool down completely. Then, rinse the pan with soap and warm water to remove any leftover food particles. Next, use a sponge, soft cloth, or non-abrasive sponge/scrubber to scrub the surface of the pan gently. Rinse the pan again, and then dry it with a clean towel.

If you're dealing with burnt-on food or residue, you can try the following methods:

Soap and Water Method

• Rinse the pan with soap and warm water.
• Using hot water and a non-abrasive scrubber, scrub the surface of the pan to remove the burnt-on food.
• Rinse the pan again to remove any leftover soap or food particles.
• Allow the pan to dry.

Vinegar and Baking Soda Method

• Mix two tablespoons of white vinegar, baking soda, and a small amount of water in the pan.
• Place the pan on the stove and heat it up, letting the mixture boil for up to 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
• After boiling, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool down.
• Rinse the pan with warm water and wash it out using a sponge and dish soap.
• Allow the pan to dry.

For both methods, you can also try soaking the pan in hot water for 10-15 minutes before beginning to help loosen any dried-on food.

Soak in hot water

If you have burnt food or residue stuck on the surface of your non-stick pan, simply letting the pan soak in hot water for 10 to 15 minutes will help to loosen the residue. After the pan has soaked, dump the water and add some dish soap to both your dish sponge and the pan. The dish soap will help break down oil, grease, and pieces of burnt food.

Using the rough side of your dish sponge, scrub the burnt areas of your pan clean. It is important to steer clear of anything more abrasive, like chain mail, steel wool, or heavy-duty scrubbing brushes, as these can scratch and damage the delicate coating on your pan.

If your non-stick pan is visibly charred, a mixture of white vinegar, water, and baking soda should help loosen and remove any black residue. 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. Bring the mixture to a boil and stir it for 5 minutes to encourage any burnt residue to loosen. Allow the mixture to cool completely after boiling. Discard the vinegar solution and rinse the pan with warm water.

If you have tried the soaking method and the burnt food or residue remains stuck to the surface of your pan, it may be time to replace it. Once the non-stick coating of the pan has started to break down, it will only continue to do so, making it easier for food to stick to its surface. In some cases, the non-stick coating may also begin to flake off during cooking.

Use a commercial goo remover

Commercial goo removers are a great option for getting rid of stubborn residue on your non-stick pans. These products are designed to break down tough gunk and grime, leaving your pans spotless. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a commercial goo remover:

Step 1: Choose the Right Product

Select a reputable brand of commercial goo remover that is specifically formulated for removing sticky residue. Look for products that are safe for use on kitchen surfaces, such as Goo Gone Kitchen Degreaser.

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Before applying the commercial goo remover, ensure that your non-stick pan is completely cool. Rinsing or applying any cleaning products to a hot pan can cause warping and damage.

Step 3: Apply the Product

Follow the instructions on the commercial goo remover's label for proper application. Typically, you will need to spray or apply the product directly onto the affected area of the pan. Some products may require you to use a paper towel, sponge, or soft brush for application.

Step 4: Let It Sit

After applying the commercial goo remover, let it sit for a few minutes. This allows the product to penetrate and break down the sticky residue. Follow the recommended time suggested by the manufacturer.

Step 5: Wipe Away the Residue

Using a paper towel, sponge, or soft brush, gently wipe away the residue. Be careful not to use abrasive materials that can scratch the non-stick surface. If necessary, repeat the process until all the residue is removed.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

Once the residue is removed, rinse the pan with warm, soapy water to remove any remaining traces of the product. Wash the pan thoroughly and dry it completely with a clean towel or place it on a drying rack.

It is important to note that while commercial goo removers are effective, you can also opt for natural alternatives like oil, peanut butter, vinegar, or even vodka to remove sticky residue from your non-stick pans. Always test any cleaning product on a small, hidden area of your pan first to ensure it doesn't cause any damage or discolouration.

Frequently asked questions