Cleaning Hacks: Removing Burnt Bits From Your Pan

Burnt bits on a pan can be a real eyesore, but there are several ways to get rid of them. Some common household items that can be used include vinegar, baking soda, lemons, dishwasher tablets, and aluminium foil. For example, one method involves filling the pan with equal parts water and vinegar, bringing the mixture to a boil, adding baking soda, and then letting it soak. Another method is to cut up lemons, boil them in the pan with water, and then scrub the pan. It's important to note that different methods may work better for different types of pans, such as cast iron or non-stick pans, so it's always a good idea to test a small area first.

Baking soda and vinegar

Step 1: Fill the Pan

Fill your dirty pan with equal parts water and vinegar. The amount of liquid you use will depend on the size of your pan. For a large pot or pan, you may need to use more liquid.

Step 2: Boil the Mixture

Place the pan on the stove and bring the water-vinegar mixture to a boil. This will help loosen any burned-on food.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda

Once the mixture is boiling, turn off the heat and carefully add 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Be cautious, as mixing baking soda and vinegar can cause a somewhat explosive reaction. Slowly add the baking soda to the boiling water to avoid any splashing or overflow.

Step 4: Soak the Pan

Remove the pan from the heat and let it soak for up to 15 minutes. During this time, the baking soda and vinegar will work together to further loosen any burnt-on food and make it easier to remove.

Step 5: Discard the Liquid

After soaking, carefully discard the liquid down the drain. Be sure to follow proper safety precautions as the liquid will still be very hot.

Step 6: Scrub the Pan

Use a sponge or scouring pad to scrub away any remaining burnt-on bits. If spots remain stubborn, create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing again.

Additional Tips:

• If using this method on a cast iron skillet, avoid using water, soap, or vinegar as they can create rust and damage the pan's seasoning. Instead, use a stiff-bristle brush or scouring pad along with the baking soda to remove the burnt bits.
• Always test any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous portion of the pan first to ensure it won't damage the surface.
• For a heavier-duty cleaning option, try combining baking soda with lemon juice instead of vinegar. The acidic lemon juice will react with the baking soda to create a fizzing reaction that helps loosen burnt food.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove burnt bits from your pan using baking soda and vinegar, leaving it clean and ready for your next cooking adventure!

Dishwasher tablets

First, cover the bottom of the pan with a small amount of water and warm it on low heat. Remove the pan from the heat source and, if your tablet is wrapped, remove the wrapper. Begin to gently scrub the pan under warm water with the dishwasher tablet. The burnt-on food should come up immediately. If not, you can scrape the tablet across the burnt bits.

Rinse the pan with warm water and, if necessary, repeat the process. Finally, wash the pan with warm, soapy water.

This method is time-efficient, with the whole process taking between three and five minutes. It is also a relatively mess-free option. However, it is worth noting that it may take more than one tablet to fully clean the pan, which could become costly.

For best results, use Finish Powerball Deep Clean tablets. It is also recommended to keep the plastic coating on the tablets while scrubbing. The warm water will gradually dissolve the coating, helping the tablet keep its shape.

This method can also be used to clean your oven.

Lemon

Step 1: Remove Food and Debris

Start by removing as much food and debris from the pan as possible. You can use a spatula or scraper to get rid of any stuck-on food particles.

Step 2: Add Water and Lemon

Fill the pan with a thin layer of water, making sure the bottom of the pan is covered. Then, cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into the water. You can also add a few lemon slices to the pan for extra cleaning power.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Place the pan on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high. Bring the lemon water to a boil and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. The acid in the lemon juice will help break down the burnt-on food.

Step 4: Discard Water and Lemons

Once you start to see food particles floating to the surface, it's time to remove the pan from the heat. Carefully pour out the water and discard the lemons.

Step 5: Rinse and Scrub

Rinse the pan with hot, clean water. Use a scouring pad or brush to loosen and remove any remaining burnt bits. If necessary, add a little dish soap to your scrubber to help with the process.

Step 6: Repeat if Needed

If there are still some stubborn burnt bits on the pan, you can repeat the process. Alternatively, you can try using a different cleaning method, such as baking soda and vinegar, or aluminum foil and baking soda.

Using lemon to clean a burnt pan is an effective and natural way to get your cookware looking like new again. It may require a bit of scrubbing, but the acid in the lemon juice will help break down the burnt-on food, making it easier to remove.

Aluminium foil

First, rinse your dirty pan in hot water and drain. Then, sprinkle the pan generously with 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Add a few teaspoons of hot water back to the pan to form a paste with the baking soda. Next, take a golf ball-sized piece of crumpled-up aluminium foil and begin scrubbing the pan until all the burnt debris lifts off. Finally, rinse the pan with hot, soapy water to finish cleaning.

This method is very abrasive and should not be used on non-stick pans or seasoned cast iron pans.

Bar Keeper's Friend

Bar Keepers Friend is a bleach-free, oxalic-acid-based powdered cleaning product that can be used on stainless steel items and other surfaces like glass, ceramic, and more. It can remove rust, tarnish, mineral deposits, and tough stains from most surfaces. It can also be used on pans with copper bottoms and steel tops.

To use Bar Keepers Friend, start by wetting the surface of the pan. Then, sprinkle the powder onto the surface and rub it in with a soft, wet cloth. For tougher stains, make a paste with the powder and a small amount of water, and let it sit for about a minute before washing, rinsing, and drying the pan.

For very tarnished or greasy pans, you may want to start scrubbing with steel wool before switching to a soft sponge or rag. Rinse the pan well once you finish cleaning. If you have sensitive skin or are scrubbing a lot of pots, wear kitchen gloves to protect your skin as the powder is abrasive.

Frequently asked questions