Storing All-Clad: Hang Or Stack?

Storing pots and pans can be a challenge, especially when it comes to All-Clad's stainless steel and non-stick cookware, which should be carefully stacked or hung to avoid scratching and scuffing. There are several ways to store All-Clad pots and pans, from hanging them on pot rails or racks, to storing them in drawers, cabinets, or on countertops.

Hang pots and pans on a wall-mounted rack

Hanging pots and pans on a wall-mounted rack is a great way to save cupboard space and display your cookware. This method of storage is not only practical but can also add a decorative touch to your kitchen.

Wall-mounted pot racks come in various materials, sizes, and colours, so you can choose one that suits your kitchen's style and your specific needs. For example, you can opt for a simple metal bar with hooks or a shelf with rails and hooks. Some racks also have additional features like a towel bar or a paper towel holder.

When installing a wall-mounted rack, it's important to ensure that it's securely attached to the wall. Most racks will need to be mounted to the studs in your wall or ceiling, or you can use wall anchors for support. This is because the rack will bear a lot of weight, especially if you plan to hang multiple pots and pans.

Once your rack is installed, you can start hanging your cookware. Many pans have holes in their handles, making it easy to hang them on the hooks of the rack. Even large stock pots usually have sturdy handles that can bear the weight of the pot when hung. Just make sure to leave enough space between each item to avoid any scrapes or bumps.

In addition to hanging pots and pans, you can also use the rack to store lids, utensils, or even cookbooks. This helps keep your kitchen organised and ensures that everything you need is within easy reach.

Store lids separately in a drawer

If you're lucky enough to have drawers in your kitchen, you can use them to store your pot and pan lids separately. This method keeps your lids organised and prevents the "clang-y avalanche" that can occur when stacking them.

There are several products available to help you organise lids in a drawer. For example, you could try the VARIERA pot lid organiser from IKEA, which works accordion-style and can be expanded or contracted to fit your drawer. Or, if you're looking for something more affordable, you could try the 4-Sort Divider from The Container Store, which costs just $4.

If you don't want to buy a product, you could use Command Hooks to store your lids on the inside of the drawer. You'll need two hooks per lid, and you'll need to position them so that the drawer can still close. Once you've worked out where to place the hooks, simply affix them at 8:00 and 4:00 (pretending the lid is a clock face) and slide the lid in.

Use pan protectors to avoid scratches

Pan protectors are a great way to avoid scratches on your All-Clad pots and pans when storing them. They are an inexpensive accessory that can prevent scratches, chips, and other damage to your cookware.

Pan protectors are typically made of a cushioned polyester felt or silicone, providing a soft surface to layer between your pots and pans. They are flexible and mould to the shape of your cookware, without adding bulk to your storage. This helps to prevent scratches, especially on non-stick and cast-iron cookware, and extends the life of your pans.

You can buy pan protectors in sets of at least two or three, usually for less than $20 per set. They come in various sizes to fit different types and sizes of pots and pans. When using pan protectors, simply place them in between your cookware when storing them to avoid scratches and extend the life of your pans. You can also use them between glassware and ceramic items to avoid chipping.

In addition to preventing scratches, pan protectors can also reduce the noise and clatter of stacking cookware. They are a versatile and multi-purpose solution for your kitchen storage needs. While you can buy pan protectors, you can also use household items such as old potholders, fabric trivets, dishtowels, or dinner napkins as an alternative.

Install a ceiling-mounted pot rack

Ceiling-mounted pot racks are a great way to save space and keep your pots and pans within easy reach. This guide will take you through the process of installing a ceiling-mounted pot rack.

Step 1: Choose a pot rack

First, you need to choose a pot rack that fits the size and style of your kitchen. Wrought iron pot racks come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs.

Step 2: Choose a location

When choosing a location for your pot rack, consider the height of your ceiling and the length of your chains. The rack should be hung at a comfortable arm's reach, with enough clearance to avoid bumping your head. It's also important to ensure that the rack doesn't block light fixtures or natural light sources.

Step 3: Find the ceiling joists

Ceiling joists are horizontal supports that the ceiling is attached to. You will need to screw the pot rack into these joists to ensure it is secure and can bear the weight. Use a stud finder to locate the joists, or look for nails or nail heads in the drywall.

Step 4: Mark the location

Once you've located the ceiling joists, mark their location with a pencil or a piece of masking tape. This will help you align the pot rack during installation.

Step 5: Drill pilot holes

Use a drill to make pilot holes in the ceiling joists. The size of the drill bit will depend on the size of the screws or hooks you are using, so refer to the pot rack's instructions. It's important to ensure that the rack is squared over the counter, island, or sink.

Step 6: Secure the chains

Screw the hooks into the ceiling and attach the chains. Adjust the length of the chains to your desired height. Remember that you can always add or remove links from the chain to change the height.

Step 7: Attach the pot rack

Once the chains are in place, simply attach the pot rack to the chains. Make sure the rack is balanced and secure before hanging your pots and pans.

By following these steps, you can safely and securely install a ceiling-mounted pot rack, adding functionality and style to your kitchen.

Store sheet pans upright

To store your sheet pans upright, you can use a sheet pan organiser. These come in a variety of materials, including metal wire, steel, and bamboo, and can be freestanding or designed to fit in a drawer or cabinet. Some organisers are expandable, allowing you to adjust the width to fit your space. They can also be purchased with adjustable dividers, allowing you to store a variety of pan sizes.

If you're looking for a budget option, you can use a file sorter or a pegboard with hooks to hang your pans. This is a great way to utilise unused wall space and create instant storage. You can also use Command hooks to hang pans on the back of cabinet doors.

If you have the space, a rolling cart can be a great way to store your sheet pans. This allows you to easily move your pans around the kitchen and can be tucked away into a corner or closet when not in use.

Another option is to hang your sheet pans from a pot rail or rack. This can be installed on a wall, across a window, or from the ceiling. This method of storage is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, allowing you to display your pans while also keeping them easily accessible.

Frequently asked questions