Removing Black Oil Stains From Non-Stick Pans

Burnt non-stick pans are a common problem, but there are several ways to clean them without causing damage. The non-stick coating in pans is polytetrafluoroethylene, or Teflon, which prevents food from sticking and makes cleanup easier. However, if non-stick cookware is not used correctly, food can still get burnt and stuck to the surface. To clean a burnt non-stick pan, you can use methods such as soap and water, vinegar and baking soda, or a specialised cookware cleaner. It is important to avoid using harsh scrubbing tools or high temperatures, as these can damage the non-stick coating.

How to Remove Black Oil Stains from Non-Stick Pans

Use soap and water

To remove black oil stains from non-stick pans, one of the simplest methods is to use soap and water. This trick requires barely any scrubbing but does take a bit of time.

First, fill your sink with hot water and add a few squirts of degreasing dish soap. Place the pan in the sink and let it sit for about an hour. The hot water and soap will loosen the burnt food and oil residue. After an hour, dump out the dirty water and wipe away the softened gunk with a nylon scrubber.

Next, rinse the pan thoroughly with cold water and dry it with a paper towel. If any stains remain, you can try a baking soda paste. Sprinkle some baking soda onto the stained area and pour a few tablespoons of water on top. Let the mixture sit overnight, and in the morning, use a gentle nylon scouring pad to scrub the pan clean. Rinse the pan with cold water and dry it.

If you don't have an hour to let the pan soak, you can also try this method: fill the pan with hot water and add a few squirts of degreasing dish soap. Let the pan sit for about 20 minutes, and then scrub away the loosened food grime with a nylon scrubber. For really stubborn stains, heat the pan with the soap and water mixture until it boils, then turn off the heat and let the pan cool before scrubbing.

When cleaning a non-stick pan, it's important to avoid using anything abrasive, such as steel wool or stiff scrubbing brushes, as these can damage the non-stick coating. It's also best to avoid putting non-stick pans in the dishwasher, as the high temperatures and harsh detergents can break down the surface.

Use vinegar and baking soda

To remove black oil stains from non-stick pans using vinegar and baking soda, follow these steps:

Firstly, create a mixture of vinegar and baking soda directly in your non-stick pan. Use equal parts white vinegar and baking soda (2 tablespoons of each is a good amount) and add enough water to cover the bottom of the pan. Place the pan on the stove and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring it as it heats up. Continue stirring for about 5 minutes to encourage any burnt residue to loosen.

Once the mixture has boiled, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool completely. After it has cooled, discard the vinegar solution and rinse the pan with warm water. You can then continue with the usual steps of washing up: add some dish soap to the pan, scrub it with a sponge, and rinse it again with warm water.

If the burnt-on stains are particularly stubborn, you can try a few variations on this method. For example, you could make a paste from baking soda and water, apply it to the burnt areas of the pan, and leave it to sit for several hours or overnight before scrubbing and rinsing. Alternatively, you could try adding lemon juice to the mixture—the combination of lemon juice and baking soda can help to remove black oxidization stains.

Avoid abrasive cleaning pads

When cleaning a non-stick pan, it is important to avoid using abrasive cleaning pads. While steel wool and plastic scouring pads may seem like a good idea, they can actually do more harm than good. These types of pads can scratch and damage the delicate coating on your pan, leading to a decrease in its non-stick properties over time.

Instead, opt for non-abrasive scrubbing pads or sponges. These types of cleaning tools are designed to be used on non-stick surfaces without causing any damage. They are typically made from soft, flexible materials that effectively remove caked-on food and grime without scratching the surface of your pan. You can find non-abrasive scrubbing pads at most home goods stores or online.

When using a non-abrasive scrubbing pad, it is important to follow the proper cleaning techniques for your non-stick pan. First, allow the pan to cool completely before rinsing it with warm water to remove any leftover food particles. Then, using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth, scrub the surface of the pan gently to remove any remaining food residue. Finally, rinse the pan again and dry it thoroughly with a clean towel.

By avoiding abrasive cleaning pads and following the proper cleaning techniques, you can effectively remove black oil stains from your non-stick pan while also preserving its non-stick coating. This will help extend the lifespan of your pan and keep it in good condition for years to come.

Use baking soda and water/olive oil

To remove black oil stains from non-stick pans, you can use baking soda and water or olive oil. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Using Baking Soda and Water:

• Place your non-stick pan in the kitchen sink. Ensure any remaining food particles or grease are removed.
• Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto the stained surface area of the pan. The baking soda will help to absorb and soften the grease.
• Pour a few tablespoons of water onto the baking soda. The amount of water should be just enough to create a paste-like consistency when mixed with the baking soda.
• Allow the pan to sit for several hours or preferably overnight. This gives the baking soda time to work on breaking down the grease and stains.
• After the mixture has sat for a while, use a gentle nylon scouring pad or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub the pan clean. Be gentle to avoid scratching the non-stick surface.
• Rinse the pan thoroughly with cold water to remove any residue.
• Dry the pan with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Using Baking Soda and Olive Oil:

• In a small bowl, mix equal parts of baking soda and olive oil to create a paste. The olive oil will help to loosen and lift the grease, while the baking soda acts as a mild scouring agent.
• Use a soft sponge or cloth to apply the paste onto the stained areas of the pan. Spread it evenly and ensure it covers all the burnt-on grease.
• Let the paste sit on the pan for about 15 minutes. During this time, the mixture will work to break down the grease and stains.
• Rinse the pan under cold water to remove the paste and any residue.
• If needed, use a gentle nylon scrubber or sponge to remove any remaining stains or residue. Be careful not to use anything abrasive, as it can damage the non-stick coating.
• Dry the pan thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Remember to always follow the manufacturer's care instructions for your non-stick pan. Additionally, avoid using harsh detergents, metal utensils, or high heat, as these can damage the non-stick coating.

Use salt water

If you like the idea of your pan cleaning itself, then this is the method for you. It uses the power of salt to remove burnt-on food from non-stick pans and takes minimal effort.

How to Clean Non-Stick Pans with Salt Water

• Fill the pan or pot with hot water and pour in about three tablespoons of salt.
• Let the non-stick pan sit for a few hours.
• After the pan has soaked, turn the burner on high and bring the salt water to a boil.
• Dump the dirty salt water and wash the pan using a little soap and water.

Frequently asked questions