Eliminating Detergent Odor From Pans: A Quick Guide

Pans, especially non-stick pans, can retain detergent smells. This is often due to the chemicals in the detergent, such as preservatives, alcohol, and petroleum. To get rid of the smell, you can try a few different methods. Firstly, try hanging the pans outside in the fresh air. This allows the pans to air out and the smell to dissipate. If this doesn't work, you can try soaking the pans in a mixture of warm water and baking soda, or distilled white vinegar, before washing them as usual. You can also try using a scent absorber, such as a box of baking soda, to remove the scents from the pans.

Soak in vinegar and water

To get rid of detergent smells in pans, a soak in vinegar and water is a great solution. This method is simple, effective, and uses easily accessible household products.

First, prepare a mixture of vinegar and water. The exact ratio of vinegar to water may vary depending on the strength of the detergent smell and the material of the pan. A good starting point is a 1:4 solution of vinegar to water, which has been recommended for removing strong laundry odours. However, for more delicate pans, a dilution of vinegar and water may be more suitable.

Next, fully submerge the pan in the vinegar and water solution. If your pan is too large to be fully submerged, use a sponge or cloth to apply the solution to the affected areas. Allow the pan to soak for at least 20 minutes, but for more stubborn smells, you can leave it to soak for up to an hour. The vinegar will help to neutralise and eliminate the detergent odour.

After soaking, if desired, you can use a non-abrasive sponge to gently scrub the pan and ensure that any remaining odour molecules are removed. Finally, rinse the pan thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a microfiber cloth.

This method is a natural and inexpensive way to remove detergent smells from pans. By adjusting the ratio of vinegar to water, this method can be used for a range of materials, from durable to more delicate pans.

Baking soda and water paste

To get rid of detergent smells in pans, a paste made from baking soda and water can be very effective. This method works well because baking soda is alkaline, and when it comes into contact with acidic detergent residues, it reacts to neutralise them. This chemical reaction produces a less odorous compound, and the change in pH helps eliminate the smell.

To use this method, first, cover the bottom of the pan with a layer of water. Then, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the water to create a thin paste. Let the pan sit for several hours, then rinse and wash as usual.

For stubborn stains, a stronger method can be used. First, boil a solution of 4 tablespoons of baking soda and 1/2 cup of water in the pan. Then, let the pan cool. Rinse the pan with straight baking soda and scrub gently with a nonstick-safe nylon brush.

Baking soda typically takes at least 24 hours to absorb odours, so it may be necessary to repeat these processes multiple times to completely eliminate detergent smells.

Air clothes outside

Airing clothes outside is a great way to get rid of detergent smells. Hang your clothes on a washing line, or drape them over a banister or hanger. Leave them outside for 12 hours or more, ideally in a breezy spot with bright sunlight. The fresh air will help to neutralise the smell.

If you are looking to get rid of detergent smells from pans, there are a few methods you can try. Firstly, you could try washing the pans with vinegar or baking soda. Alternatively, you could try using a laundry booster or a scented detergent to mask the smell.

Wash with unscented detergent

If you want to get rid of detergent smells from pans, washing with unscented detergent is a great option. Here are some detailed instructions to help you effectively remove those stubborn detergent smells:

Step 1: Choose the Right Detergent

Select an unscented, scent-free, or "free and clear" detergent. Look for options specifically designed to be free from fragrances and dyes. It's worth noting that even a small amount of scented detergent can be enough to leave a strong smell on your pans, so be sure to use a completely unscented option.

Step 2: Prepare the Pans

Before washing, it's a good idea to prepare your pans. If there are any food residues or grease on the pans, scrape away any solids and rinse them with water. This will help ensure that the washing process is more effective in removing the detergent smell.

Step 3: Wash the Pans

Now, it's time to wash the pans with the unscented detergent. Follow the instructions on the detergent packaging for the recommended amount to use. Wash the pans as you typically would, ensuring they are thoroughly cleaned. If possible, it's best to wash the pans separately from other items to avoid any potential transfer of scents.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

After washing, thoroughly rinse the pans with clean water to remove any detergent residue. Once rinsed, dry the pans completely. You can air-dry them or use a clean cloth to speed up the process. Ensure that the pans are completely dry before using them again or storing them away.

Step 5: Repeat if Necessary

In some cases, you may need to repeat the above steps multiple times to fully remove the detergent smell. Detergent smells can be quite stubborn, especially if they have built up over time. Don't be afraid to rewash the pans using the same unscented detergent method until the smell is completely gone.

Remember that it's essential to follow the care instructions for your specific pans, especially regarding water temperature and drying methods, to avoid any potential damage.

Use laundry booster

If you're struggling with detergent smells in your pans, a laundry booster could be a great solution. Here's how to use this method effectively:

Choose the Right Product:

Select a laundry booster that targets odours and is suitable for the fabric of your pans. Look for products that are effective against tough odours and stains. You can opt for a store-bought laundry booster or make your own natural solution with ingredients like Borax or baking soda.

Prepare the Solution:

If you're using a store-bought laundry booster, follow the instructions on the packaging. Typically, you'll need to mix about 1/2 cup (120 mL) of the booster with your regular detergent. For a natural option, create a paste by mixing baking soda with a few drops of water. You can also use white vinegar, which is an effective natural deodorizer.

Apply the Solution:

For pans, it's best to apply the laundry booster or natural paste directly to the affected areas. Use a spoon to apply the paste generously to any smelly spots. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow it to work its magic.

Wash the Pans:

After applying the laundry booster or natural paste, proceed to wash your pans as usual. Use warm water and a gentle cycle to protect the pan's finish. If possible, hang the pans to air-dry in a well-ventilated area. Fresh air can help eliminate any lingering odours.

Repeat if Necessary:

In some cases, you may need to repeat the process for stubborn detergent smells. Don't be afraid to give your pans another round of treatment if the smell persists. With consistent application, you should be able to eliminate the detergent odour from your pans.

Remember to always test a small area of your pans first to ensure that the laundry booster or natural solution won't cause any damage or discolouration. By following these steps, you can effectively use a laundry booster to get rid of detergent smells in your pans.

Frequently asked questions