Restore Your Non-Stick Pan: Tips To Make It Like New

Non-stick pans are a popular kitchen tool because they are convenient and efficient for frying. However, non-stick coatings do deteriorate over time, and pans with scratches or burnt-on food residue will need to be replaced. To prevent this, it is recommended to use non-stick-friendly utensils, avoid harsh chemicals, and never heat an empty non-stick pan. If your non-stick pan is sticking, there are several methods you can try to restore it, including a salt hack, a baking soda and water paste, or a vinegar and water solution.

Use a salt hack

If your non-stick pan has lost its non-stick powers, you might want to try this viral TikTok hack by Sophie Louise (@s_lou92) that has garnered over five million views and more than 450,000 likes.

First, wash your pan with some dish soap and a soft sponge—not a scourer—and dry it thoroughly. Next, put your stove on high heat and wait for it to get very hot. Cover the base of the pan with an even layer of table salt and shake the pan to distribute the salt evenly. Allow the salt to cook until it turns a brownish hue, which may take a few minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and tip the salt down the sink. Wipe away any excess salt with a damp kitchen towel. Finish by lightly rubbing a touch of cooking oil over the non-stick surface, restoring its smoothness.

This simple salt hack can bring back the "magic" of your non-stick pan. By creating a small barrier between the food and the pan, salt acts as both a buffer and an exfoliator, essentially uncovering the chemical coating of your pan. Although this is not a long-term solution, it is a reliable short-term one, lifting any residue from your previous cooking.

Avoid harsh chemicals

To restore a non-stick pan, it is important to avoid harsh chemicals. Using harsh chemicals can damage the non-stick coating and make it less effective. Instead, opt for gentle cleaning methods and natural solutions to remove any build-up or residue.

A natural solution of baking soda and water can be used to clean the pan and remove any dark build-up or stains. Simply make a paste with baking soda and water, and apply it to the affected areas. For more severe build-up, a powder cleaner like Barkeeper's Friend can be used. This product is specifically designed to remove tough stains and build-up without damaging the non-stick coating.

Another natural solution involves boiling water, vinegar, and baking soda in the pan. This method helps to loosen and remove any stubborn residue or food particles. Bring the mixture to a boil and use a spatula to help scrape away any remaining bits. Once most of the residue is removed, wash the pan as usual with gentle dish soap and a soft sponge or brush. Avoid using steel wool or other abrasive tools, as they can scratch the non-stick surface.

Additionally, it is important to avoid cooking spray when using non-stick pans. The spray can create invisible build-up that is difficult to remove and can wear down the non-stick coating over time. Instead, use a small amount of oil, such as canola, olive, vegetable, or coconut oil. These natural oils help to enhance the non-stick effects of the pan and are safer to use.

By avoiding harsh chemicals and choosing gentle, natural cleaning methods, you can effectively restore and maintain the non-stick coating of your pan. These methods are simple, cost-effective, and safe for both your pan and your health.

Use a vinegar and water solution

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.

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 above 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

Continue with the soap and water method. Using a sponge or washcloth, scrub the surface of the pan to remove any remaining food particles. Rinse the pan again and dry it using a clean towel.

Clean with baking soda

To clean a non-stick pan with baking soda, start by adding enough water to the pan to cover the bottom. Then, bring the water to a boil. Transfer the pan to the sink without dumping out the water, and add 1 cup of white vinegar.

Next, add 2 tablespoons of baking soda and let the pan sit for a few minutes while the baking soda and vinegar react. The fizzing of the vinegar and baking soda will help lift caked-on food residue.

Finally, scrub the pan with a sponge and wash it with soap and water. If your pan still has some residue, try using a paste made from equal parts baking soda and water. Scrub the problem areas with a scouring sponge until the stains lift, then rinse with hot water and wash with dish soap.

It is important to note that you should avoid using baking soda on non-stick pans, as it can be abrasive and damage the coating. Instead, opt for gentle cleaning methods like soap and water or a specialised non-stick cleaner.

Avoid stacking your non-stick pans

Stacking non-stick pans can lead to scratches and scuffs, which can damage the coating and reduce the longevity of the cookware. Here are some reasons why you should avoid stacking your non-stick pans and alternative storage methods to consider:

Damage to Cookware

Stacking non-stick pans can cause them to bump and scrape against each other, leading to scratches and scuff marks. While stackable pots and pans may seem like a convenient storage option, the costs outweigh the benefits. Even with stackable cookware designed to fit inside each other, the pans still come into contact and can cause damage. This damage can not only make your pans look unappealing but also affect their non-stick properties. The coating on non-stick pans can chip away due to excessive contact, causing food to stick and reducing the effectiveness of the pan.

Health Hazard

Damage to your non-stick pans can also pose a potential health risk. Scratches on the surface of the pan can cause the metal or coating to flake off and mix with your food. Consuming these flakes can be harmful to your health, depending on the type of metal and coating. Older non-stick pans with Teflon coatings, for example, contain PFOA, a chemical linked to cancer and other health issues.

Alternative Storage Methods

Instead of stacking your non-stick pans, consider using one of the following storage methods to protect your cookware and make it easily accessible:

• Pot racks: If you have enough space in your kitchen, hanging pans on a pot rack is a great option. It eliminates the risk of scratches and dings by keeping the pans separate. Pot racks also keep your pans within easy reach and create additional storage space.
• Wall-mounted pegboards: Pegboards are flat boards with holes or slots that allow you to hang your pans, pots, and utensils. They are a great way to utilise unused wall space and provide ample room for storage.
• Pan protectors: If you must stack your pans due to limited space, use pan protectors to place between them. You can use paper towels, dish towels, or purchase pan protectors made from materials like felt or rubber. These protectors act as padded cushions to prevent scratches and reduce the impact of bumps and shocks.

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