Recoating Non-Stick Pans: A Simple Guide To Revitalizing Cookware

Non-stick pans are a godsend for home cooks, but their non-stick coating can deteriorate over time due to improper cleaning or maintenance. While recoating non-stick pans is possible, it is a complex process that involves dangerous chemicals and extreme heat, so it is not recommended as a DIY project. Instead, there are several alternative methods to restore the non-stick coating on your pans.

How to Recoat a Non-Stick Pan

Repairing a non-stick pan with a non-stick cookware repair spray

It is important to note that this method is not a permanent solution, as the oil can be cooked out of the pan's pores, causing it to start sticking again over time. Additionally, always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the non-stick cookware repair spray for the best results.

Seasoning a non-stick pan with peanut oil

To season a non-stick pan with peanut oil, start by washing the pan with warm water and dish soap to remove any dirt or residue. Dry the pan thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel. Next, rub 1 teaspoon of peanut oil onto the surface of the pan, making sure to cover the entire surface, including the rim. Place the pan on the stove and heat it over medium heat for 30 to 60 seconds. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool down completely. Finally, use a paper towel to wipe out any excess oil, and your pan is now ready for cooking!

You can also season a non-stick pan in the oven. Preheat the oven to 300-350°F. Pour 1 teaspoon of peanut oil into the pan and use a paper towel to spread the oil evenly over the surface, including the rim. Place the pan in the oven for about an hour. Once the time is up, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely. Use a paper towel to remove any excess oil, and your pan is ready to use!

It is important to note that while seasoning a non-stick pan with peanut oil can help fill in small scratches and pores, it is not a permanent solution. The oil can cook out of the pores over time, and the pan may start to stick again. Therefore, it is recommended to re-season the pan occasionally to maintain its non-stick properties.

Seasoning a non-stick pan with coconut oil

While it is unnecessary to season a non-stick pan the first time you’re going to use it, re-seasoning it once every 6 months is always a good idea to help re-coat and extend the service life of your non-stick cookware.

Cleaning the Pan

First, clean your pan with a mix of baking soda, vinegar, and water to remove existing stains and food scraps. Mix half a cup of white vinegar, one cup of water, and two tablespoons of baking soda and pour it into your pan. Place it on the stovetop over medium heat and let it boil. You can take the pan off the heat after about ten minutes.

Washing the Pan

Pour out the mixture and wash the cookware thoroughly with dish soap and a sponge. Dry the pan surface with a soft dry cloth or paper towel. That way, you will prevent the oil from sticking to its bottom.

Seasoning in the Oven

Pour one teaspoon of coconut oil into the pan to evenly cover its bottom. Preheat the oven to 300 to 350 F (149 – 177 C) and then put it inside for approximately one hour. That is enough time for polymerisation to occur, which means the fatty acid changes during a chemical reaction.

To avoid damaging your non-stick pan, do not exceed the maximum temperature recommended by the manufacturer. Many pans can withstand temperatures up to 500 F (260 C), but always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance. Let the skillet cool for a while, take it out from the oven, and wipe excess oil with a paper towel.

Seasoning on the Stovetop

Start the process by applying one teaspoon of coconut oil to the pan surface. Spread it evenly on the bottom with a towel paper and place your cookware on the stove. Always use a thin coat of oil since adding too much will make your pan sticky.

Take care not to overheat the pan, so remove it as soon as the applied oil starts smoking. The process usually takes about 30 to 60 seconds. Let it cool off and remove excess oil with a paper towel. Repeat the process to get a longer-lasting, slick, non-stick coating.

Seasoning a non-stick pan in the oven

Seasoning a pan is a crucial step in maintaining its non-stick properties and preventing rust. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season a non-stick pan in the oven:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to a temperature between 300°F and 500°F (150°C and 260°C). The specific temperature depends on the material of your pan.

Step 2: Wash and Dry the Pan

If your pan is new, thoroughly wash it with warm, soapy water to remove any dirt from the factory and packaging residue. You can use a stainless steel scrubber for cast iron and carbon steel pans, while a soft sponge will do for other types of pans. Rinse the pan and dry it with a clean towel.

Step 3: Place the Pan in the Oven

Place the pan in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes to ensure it is completely dry.

Step 4: Apply a Thin Layer of Oil

Once the pan is cool enough to handle, apply a thin layer of oil to the entire surface of the pan, including the bottom but excluding the handle. Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, flaxseed oil, or coconut oil.

Step 5: Line a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with aluminium foil and place it on the bottom rack of the oven to catch any oil drippings.

Step 6: Place the Pan Back in the Oven

Place the oiled pan on the middle rack of the oven. You may choose to place the pan upside down to allow excess oil to drip off during the seasoning process.

Step 7: Bake the Pan

Bake the pan for the recommended amount of time, which depends on the material of the pan. This step can be repeated up to three times for better seasoning.

Step 8: Allow the Pan to Cool

After the designated time has passed, turn off the oven and let the pan cool down completely. This gradual cooling process helps the oil to polymerize and create a durable non-stick coating.

Step 9: Wipe Off Excess Oil

Once the pan has cooled, remove it from the oven and wipe it down with a clean cloth to remove any excess oil residue.

Your non-stick pan is now seasoned and ready for use!

Spraying the surface of a non-stick pan

• Wash your pan thoroughly to ensure there are no stains or sticky food residues left behind. You can use a mixture of water, baking soda, and white vinegar for this.
• Dry the pan by gently rubbing it with a cloth. Make sure the pan is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
• Apply the non-stick coating spray liberally to the surface of the pan. Ensure that you cover the entire surface evenly.
• Let the spray dry for a few hours. The exact drying time may vary depending on the product you are using, so refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
• After the spray has dried, place the pan in the oven and bake it at a temperature of around 350°F for about 45 minutes. This step helps to cure the coating and ensure that it adheres properly to the pan's surface.
• Once the baking is complete, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool down naturally.
• Finally, wash the pan again to remove any excess coating or residue.

It is important to note that this method may not provide as permanent a solution as a professional recoating service. The non-stick coating spray may need to be reapplied periodically, depending on the usage and care of the pan. Additionally, always follow the safety instructions and recommendations provided by the manufacturer of the non-stick coating spray.

While recoating your non-stick pan can be a convenient and cost-effective solution, it is worth considering investing in high-quality non-stick cookware to begin with, such as T-fal or Calphalon, which tend to have longer-lasting non-stick coatings.

Frequently asked questions