Erase Burn Stains From Baking Pans: Quick Tips

Burnt pans are a common problem, but there are several ways to tackle the issue. The first step is to remove as much of the burnt food and debris as possible. Then, depending on the type of pan, you can try a number of different methods, such as using baking soda, vinegar, lemons, dishwasher tablets, or dryer sheets. For example, one method involves filling the pan with equal parts water and vinegar, bringing it to a boil, adding baking soda, letting it sit, and then scrubbing the pan. Another method involves using a dishwasher tablet and warm water to scrub the pan. It's important to note that different methods may work better for different types of pans, such as stainless steel or non-stick pans, so be sure to choose an appropriate method for your pan.

Baking soda and vinegar

Step 1: Create the Mixture

Create a slurry of white vinegar, water, and baking soda directly in your non-stick pan. Pour enough water to cover the bottom of the pan, along with 2 tablespoons of both white vinegar and baking soda.

Step 2: Boil the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a boil and stir to dissolve using a silicone or wooden spoon. Continue stirring for 5 minutes to encourage any burnt residue to loosen.

Step 3: Cool the Mixture

Allow the mixture to cool completely after boiling.

Step 4: Discard the Mixture and Rinse the Pan

Discard the vinegar solution and rinse the pan with warm water.

Step 5: Wash the Pan

Continue with the following steps: wash the pan with a dish sponge and dish soap. Using the rough side of the sponge, scrub the burnt areas of your pan clean. Steer clear of anything more abrasive, like chain mail, steel wool, or heavy-duty scrubbing brushes—these can scratch and damage the delicate coating on your pan.

Boiled lemons

To use this method, start by cutting two to three lemons into quarters or thick slices and placing them into the bottom of the pan. Then, add enough water to cover the entire scorched area. Place the pan on the stove and bring the lemon water to a boil for five to ten minutes. You will see the burnt food particles coming off the bottom of the pan as the lemon floats around.

After boiling for about five minutes, remove the pan from the heat and let it soak until the water cools to room temperature. Then, discard the water and lemon pieces. Finally, scrub off any remaining grime with a scouring pad or brush.

This method is simple and effective, requiring hardly any scrubbing effort at all. It is also a great way to make use of leftover lemons.

Dishwasher tablets

Step 1: Cover the bottom of your burnt pan with water.

Step 2: Place the pan on the stove and heat it for a few moments. The amount of water should be just enough to cover the burnt areas.

Step 3: Remove the pan from the heat source once the water is warm.

Step 4: Take a dishwasher tablet and scrape it over the burnt areas of the pan. Rub the tablet in small circles until it starts to dissolve and break down the burnt residue.

Step 5: Rinse the pan with warm, soapy water to wash away any remaining burnt food and residue.

This method is especially useful if you have a severely burnt pan. It is also a quick and easy process, taking only a few minutes to complete. However, it is important to note that dishwasher tablets may not be suitable for non-stick or cast iron cookware, so always check the care instructions for your pan before using this method.

Additionally, while dishwasher tablets are convenient, they may not be the most cost-effective solution, as you might need to use more than one tablet to thoroughly clean a heavily burnt pan.

Aluminium foil and baking soda

To start, rinse your dirty pot or pan in hot water and drain. Then, sprinkle two tablespoons of baking soda onto the pan. Add a few teaspoons of hot water to create a paste with the baking soda. Next, scrub the pan with a golf ball-sized piece of crumpled aluminium foil. Continue scrubbing until all the burnt debris is removed. Finally, rinse the pan with hot, soapy water to finish cleaning.

This method may require a small touch-up with additional baking soda. However, the aluminium foil will help to dig away the grime. It is a great way to put a random extra piece of foil to good use.

Deglazing technique

The deglazing technique is a great way to loosen burnt-on food from your baking pan and make it easier to scrub away those stubborn stains. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

First, remove as much of the burnt food and debris from the pan as possible. Use a spatula or scraper to get rid of the bulk of the burnt residue.

Next, put the pan back on the stove and turn on the heat. Heat the pan until a droplet of water sizzles when dropped onto the surface. This ensures that the pan is hot enough for the deglazing process.

Now, it's time to deglaze the pan. Add a cup of water or a mixture of half water and half white vinegar to the hot pan. The amount of liquid you use can be adjusted depending on the size of your pan. Turn up the heat and let the liquid come to a boil.

As the liquid simmers, use your spatula or scraper to gently scrape and loosen the burnt-on food from the bottom of the pan. Keep scraping until you've removed as much of the burnt residue as possible.

Once you're satisfied, carefully pour the liquid down the sink and do not dry or wipe the pan just yet. Allow the pan to cool down.

After the pan has cooled, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto the bottom of the pan. The baking soda will react with the remaining liquid and create a fizzing reaction that helps to further loosen any stubborn bits of food.

Finally, grab a wet scouring sponge or a nylon brush and scrub the pan vigorously. The baking soda will act as a mild abrasive, helping to remove the burnt stains without damaging the pan.

Rinse the pan with warm water and wash it as you normally would. Dry the pan thoroughly, and it should be good as new!

The deglazing technique is an effective way to remove burnt stains from your baking pan without having to scrub for hours. It utilizes common household items like water, vinegar, and baking soda to loosen and lift burnt-on food, making it easier to clean your pan.

Frequently asked questions