Removing Oil Stains From Stainless Steel Pans: Quick Guide

Burnt-on oil can be a pain to remove from stainless steel pans, but there are several methods to tackle this issue. Firstly, it is important to note that steel wool and other abrasive cleaning products should be avoided as they can scratch the surface of the pan and damage its finish. Instead, opt for non-scratch sponges or scrub pads. For light stains, a simple combination of dish soap and warm water should suffice. For tougher stains, a paste made from baking soda and water can be applied to the pan, left to sit, and then scrubbed off. Another method is to fill the pan with hot, soapy water and let it sit for a while before scrubbing. For extremely stubborn stains, a commercial cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend can be used, but it should be noted that this product is more expensive and potentially harmful.

Use a non-abrasive scrubber, sponge or cloth

To get oil off a stainless steel pan, it is important to use the right tools to avoid scratches, scrapes, and deposits of chlorides. Using a non-abrasive scrubber, sponge, or cloth is the best way to clean your stainless steel pan without damaging it. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through the process:

Firstly, it is important to note that you should always use a non-abrasive scrubber or sponge to clean your stainless steel pan. Avoid using steel wool or wire scrubbers as they can scratch the surface and make it vulnerable to corrosion. Look for scrubbers or sponges that are specifically designed for stainless steel cookware, often labelled as "non-scratch" or "stainless steel approved". These are usually made from softer materials, such as nylon or a soft cloth, which are effective in removing stains without causing damage.

When it comes to the cleaning process, the first step is to remove any excess oil or leftover food from the pan. Use a spatula or paper towel to get rid of as much oil as possible. If there are any stuck-on food bits, use a wooden spoon to gently dislodge them while the pan is still warm. You can also fill the pan with hot water and let it soak for at least 30 minutes to help loosen any remaining food particles.

Once you have removed the excess oil and dislodged any stuck-on food, it's time to scrub the pan. Dip your non-abrasive scrubber, sponge, or cloth into a soapy water solution. You can use your usual dish soap for this step. Gently scrub the inside and outside of the pan using circular motions. If you're using a scrubber or sponge, make sure to use a fresh one with a new, unworn scrubby side. This will help ensure that you're not transferring any dirt or bacteria back onto the pan.

After scrubbing, rinse the pan with clean water to remove any remaining soap or food particles. Finally, dry the pan thoroughly with a clean, absorbent towel. This step is important to prevent water spots and keep your stainless steel pan looking its best.

By following these steps and using a non-abrasive scrubber, sponge, or cloth, you can effectively remove oil from your stainless steel pan while also maintaining its durability and shine.

Avoid chlorides, including salt, hard water and chlorinated cleaners

Stainless steel is touted as being non-corrosive, but without proper care, it can become pitted or rusted. Exposure to chlorides over time can result in stainless steel becoming pitted, which makes the surface vulnerable to rust and corrosion. Chlorides are present in salt, hard water, and chlorinated cleaners.

When stainless steel is scratched, it becomes vulnerable to corrosion. Therefore, it is important to always use a non-abrasive or "stainless steel-approved scrubber". Stay away from mechanically abrasive scrubbers like steel wool or wire scrubbers.

To avoid the build-up of chlorides, it is recommended to prevent water spots by always drying pans immediately after washing. To remove water spots, dampen your pan and rub it down with a moist sponge and baking soda.

Repeated cleaning with salt or saltwater can also lead to pitting in stainless steel. Therefore, it is advised to avoid cleaning methods that recommend using salt.

Use baking soda and water

To get oil off a stainless steel pan using baking soda and water, you can try the following methods:

The Deglazing Technique

First, remove as much burnt food and debris from the pan as possible. Put the pan back on the stove and heat it until a droplet of water sizzles on the surface. Then, add one cup of water or a mixture of half water and half white vinegar to the pan and let it boil. As the liquid simmers, use a spatula or scraper to deglaze the bottom of the pan, loosening bits of burnt food. Pour the liquid down the sink and do not dry or wipe the pan. Sprinkle the bottom of the pan liberally with baking soda and let the pan cool. Using a wet scouring sponge or nylon brush, scrub the pot bottom vigorously. Finally, wash and dry the pan as normal.

The Baking Soda and Water Method

Start by removing as much food and debris from the pan as possible. Make a paste of three parts baking soda to one part water. Make enough to cover the scorched portion of the pan. For a full pot bottom, try one cup of baking soda and one-third cup of water. Liberally apply the paste to the burnt pan. It should be thick enough to fully coat the surface. Alternatively, cover the bottom of the pan with a thin layer of warm water and then add enough baking soda to create a paste. Let the mixture sit for a few hours or overnight, then add more baking soda and scrub with a nylon brush or scouring sponge. If you don't want to wait, add another one-quarter to one-half cup of water to thin the paste, then put the pan on the stove and let it come to a boil. Remove it from the heat quickly—you don't want it to burn again! Let the pan cool, then wipe or scrub to remove the scorched bits.

Boiling Water and Baking Soda

Add a small mound of baking soda to the centre of the pan and cover it with about a quarter of a cup of water (you might need more for a bigger pan). Bring the mixture to a boil. As the water boils and evaporates, it will leave a film of baking soda around the walls of the pan that you can then scrub off. When most of the water has boiled off, turn off the heat. Then, use a long-handled brush or scouring pad to scrub off the mess (new pads work better). It's best to do this while the pan is still hot, so use gloves and grip the pan with a towel or oven mitt.

Removing Burn Marks with Baking Soda and Dish Soap

If you have gentle dish soap on hand, simply make a paste using dish soap and baking soda. Apply the paste to any affected areas and leave it on for several hours. When you're ready, simply wash the pan thoroughly and dry as normal.

Use a commercial cleaner like Bar Keeper's Friend

If you're looking to remove oil from a stainless steel pan, Bar Keepers Friend is a great commercial cleaner to use. It's a non-abrasive, bleach-free formula that's ideal for stainless steel and can effectively remove rust, tarnish, mineral deposits, and tough stains from most surfaces. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use Bar Keepers Friend to get your stainless steel pan looking like new again:

• Moisten the Pan: Start by wetting the pan, making sure to saturate any burnt-on oil or food particles.
• Apply the Cleaner: Sprinkle a generous amount of Bar Keepers Friend powder onto the bottom of the pan. You can also sprinkle it onto a damp sponge and apply it to the pan.
• Form a Paste: Add a small amount of water to the powder to create a paste. This will help the cleaner adhere to the surface and provide a more concentrated cleaning action.
• Scrub the Pan: Using a non-abrasive scrubber or a soft cloth, gently scrub the paste in a circular motion. Focus on areas with burnt-on oil and scrub gently but firmly to remove the stains.
• Rinse the Pan: After scrubbing, rinse the pan with clean water to remove the cleaner and any loosened oil or food particles.
• Repeat if Necessary: If there are still some burn marks or oil residue, don't hesitate to repeat the above steps. You can also let the paste sit for a few minutes before scrubbing to give it more time to work.
• Buff and Shine: Finally, use a soft cloth to buff the surface of the pan to a shine. This will help restore the stainless steel's original luster and leave your pan looking brand new.

Bar Keepers Friend is a trusted brand that has been in the market since 1882. It is widely used by homeowners, professional cleaners, and even musicians to keep their stainless steel items looking their best. The product is designed to be gentle yet effective, ensuring that your stainless steel pans remain scratch-free while removing even the toughest stains. So, if you're dealing with stubborn oil stains, don't hesitate to give Bar Keepers Friend a try!

Use vinegar and baking soda

Vinegar and baking soda can be used together to clean burnt oil from a stainless steel pan. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Remove Excess Food and Debris

Start by scraping out excess oil with a spatula or wiping it out with a paper towel.

Step 2: Boil Vinegar and Water

Fill the bottom of your pot or pan with water, enough to cover the stuck-on food. Once the pot or pan has been filled with water, add 1 cup of vinegar and bring the water to a boil.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda

Once the water is boiling, remove the pan from the heat and add 2 tablespoons of baking soda. You will get a fizzing reaction. It is recommended to do this over the sink.

Step 4: Wait for the Fizzing to Stop

Set the pot aside and wait until all the fizzing and bubbling has stopped.

Step 5: Discard the Liquid and Scrub the Pan

Discard the liquid and scrub the pan with a non-abrasive sponge or scrubber to remove any remaining food particles. You can add more baking soda as necessary. Rinse and dry the pan as normal.

Tips:

• Always protect your hands with gloves when handling baking soda, as it can dry out your skin.
• It is important to clean your pan while it is still hot, so use a towel or oven mitt to handle the pan.
• For lighter stains, you can simply sprinkle some baking soda on a damp sponge and scrub the pan.

Frequently asked questions