The Best Way To Wash Caraway Pans

Caraway pans are non-stick, ceramic-coated, and require special care to maintain their performance and longevity. Before first use, it is recommended to clean Caraway pans with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge to remove any dirt or debris from manufacturing and shipping. After each use, gentle cleaning is key to preserving the non-stick surface and preventing thermal shock. Fill the pan with warm, soapy water and use a soft sponge or cloth to wash it. For burnt-on food, simmer soapy water over low heat and gently scrape away with a sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads, and instead, opt for mild dish soap and soft cleaning tools. For stubborn stains, a paste of baking soda and water can be applied and left for a few hours before washing. To clean the exterior, a mixture of vinegar and water can be used. Proper storage is also important, and Caraway provides magnetic pan racks and lid holders to prevent scratches and damage to the ceramic surface.

Use non-abrasive sponges or cloths to wash Caraway pans

When it comes to washing Caraway pans, it's important to use the right tools to get the job done effectively and safely. Non-abrasive sponges or cloths are ideal for this task, as they provide a gentle and scratch-free cleaning experience. Here are some tips and guidelines to help you make the most of your non-abrasive sponges and keep your Caraway pans in top condition:

Choose the Right Type of Non-Abrasive Sponge

Select a sponge that is specifically designed for non-stick cookware. Look for options like "non-scratch" or "gentle" sponges, which are typically made from soft materials such as microfiber or cellulose. These sponges are designed to be safe on delicate surfaces like non-stick coatings.

Opt for Soft and Absorbent Cloths

If you prefer using cloths over sponges, choose soft and absorbent options such as microfiber or cotton cloths. These cloths are gentle on the pan's surface and can effectively remove dirt and grime. Make sure to select cloths that are labelled as non-abrasive and are free from any rough textures that could damage the pan's coating.

Prepare Your Pan Before Washing

Before reaching for your sponge or cloth, it's important to prepare your Caraway pan for washing. Always allow the pan to cool down completely before washing it. This helps prevent thermal shock, which can cause cracking. Rinse the pan with warm water to remove any excess food residue, and then apply a mild dish soap or detergent.

Gently Clean the Pan

Using your non-abrasive sponge or cloth, gently clean the interior and exterior of the pan. Avoid using harsh scrubbing motions, as this can damage the non-stick coating. Work the sponge or cloth in circular motions to lift away any food residue or stains. Pay close attention to the pan's exterior, as it can also benefit from a gentle cleaning.

Tackle Stubborn Stains with Care

For stubborn stains or burnt-on food, avoid the temptation to scrub vigorously. Instead, fill the pan with warm water and add a dash of dish soap. Allow it to soak for a while, and then gently simmer the soapy water over low heat. This will help loosen the stuck-on food, making it easier to remove with your sponge or cloth. Repeat this process if needed until the pan is spotless.

Dry and Store Properly

After washing your Caraway pan, dry it thoroughly with a soft, non-abrasive dish towel. Ensure that both the interior and exterior surfaces are completely dry before storing the pan. Proper drying helps prevent water spots and maintains the pan's aesthetic appeal. Additionally, avoid stacking your pans directly on top of each other to prevent scratches on the non-stick surface. Use pan protectors or storage racks to keep your pans in optimal condition.

Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives

When it comes to washing Caraway pans, it's important to be mindful of the materials you use to avoid damaging the surface. Here are some tips to help you avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives when cleaning your Caraway pans:

• Opt for gentle, mild dish soap instead of harsh chemical cleaners. The Caraway website recommends using warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth to clean the cooking surface until it is spotless before storing.
• Avoid using abrasive pads or harsh scrubbers. Instead, use soft sponges or cloths, such as microfiber cloths or soft-scrub sponges like Scotch-Brite Dobie Pads, to prevent scratching the non-stick coating.
• For burnt-on food or tougher stains, create a mild abrasive paste or mixture using baking soda, vinegar, and water. Apply this gently to the affected area and let it sit for a few hours or overnight before washing as usual. This method is effective in lifting stains without damaging the pan.
• If you're dealing with particularly stubborn residue, you can try a mixture of two parts water, two tablespoons of white vinegar, and two tablespoons of baking soda directly in your pan. Bring this mixture to a boil, then let it cool completely before discarding the solution and rinsing the pan.
• For exterior stains, a mixture of vinegar and water can help restore shine. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry the pan to prevent any damage to the exterior finish.
• Avoid stacking your pans directly on top of each other to prevent scratches. Use pan protectors or storage racks to extend the life of your cookware.
• Always wash your Caraway pans by hand and avoid putting them in the dishwasher. The high temperatures and harsh detergents in dishwashers can break down the non-stick surface and cause peeling, chipping, or scratching.

Use baking soda for stubborn stains

To remove stubborn stains from your Caraway pans, baking soda is your best friend. It has mild abrasive properties, and its alkaline pH can help neutralise acidic burnt foods.

Step 1: Remove Food Debris

Start by scraping off as much food debris from the pan as possible. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to gently remove the debris.

Step 2: Make a Baking Soda Paste

In a small bowl, mix baking soda with water to form a paste. The paste should be thick enough to fully coat the stained area. For a pan with a full pot bottom, you can use 1 cup of baking soda and 1/3 cup of water as a starting point. Adjust the amounts as needed.

Step 3: Apply the Paste

Generously apply the baking soda paste to the stained area of the pan. Make sure the paste covers the entire stained area and is thick enough to coat it fully.

Step 4: Let it Sit

Let the paste sit on the pan for a few hours or overnight. The longer it sits, the more effective it will be at breaking down the stubborn stains.

Step 5: Add More Baking Soda and Scrub

After the waiting period, add more baking soda to the pan and use a nylon brush or a non-abrasive scouring sponge to scrub the stained area vigorously. If you don't want to wait, you can add a small amount of water to the paste to thin it out, then boil the pan on the stove. However, be careful not to burn the pan again. Let the pan cool, and then scrub to remove the scorched bits.

Step 6: Rinse and Wash

Once you're satisfied with the results, rinse the pan thoroughly and wash it with mild dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth. This will remove any remaining residue and restore your Caraway pan to its original shine.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove stubborn stains from your Caraway pans using the power of baking soda. Not only is it a natural and gentle cleaner, but it also helps maintain the integrity and functionality of your cookware. Remember to always be gentle when cleaning your Caraway pans to extend their lifespan and keep them in optimal condition.

Clean the exterior with a mixture of vinegar and water

To clean the exterior of your Caraway pan, a mixture of vinegar and water is recommended. This mixture will help remove any exterior stains and restore shine to the pan. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Mixture

Combine equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl or container. The amount of the mixture will depend on the size of your pan and the extent of the exterior stains. You can adjust the proportions as needed. It is important to use only regular white vinegar for this purpose, as other types of vinegar may be too strong and potentially damage the pan's exterior finish.

Step 2: Apply the Mixture to the Pan

Using a soft sponge or cloth, gently apply the vinegar and water mixture to the exterior of the pan. Ensure that you cover all the stained areas thoroughly. You may need to use a gentle scrubbing motion to work the mixture into any stubborn stains. Avoid using steel wool, abrasive nylon pads, or metal pads, as these can scratch and damage the exterior finish.

Step 3: Let it Sit

Once you have applied the mixture, let it sit on the exterior of the pan for a few minutes. This will allow the vinegar to work on breaking down any stains or discolouration. If you are dealing with particularly tough stains, you may need to let the mixture sit for a longer time, up to 30 minutes.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

After letting the mixture sit, thoroughly rinse the exterior of the pan with warm water. This step is crucial to ensure that all traces of vinegar are removed. Finally, dry the pan with a soft, non-abrasive dish towel or cloth. Make sure that both the interior and exterior surfaces of the pan are completely dry before storing the pan away.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean the exterior of your Caraway pan with a vinegar and water mixture, keeping your cookware looking its best and ensuring optimal performance. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for any specific recommendations or precautions when cleaning your Caraway pans.

Store pans properly to avoid scratches

To keep your pans scratch-free, it's important to store them properly. Here are some tips to help you do that:

Avoid Stacking Pans

While it may be tempting to stack your pans inside each other to save space, this is a common cause of scratches and scuffs. The pans will inevitably bump and slide against each other, causing damage over time.

Use Pan Protectors or Complimentary Storage Racks

If you must stack your pans, place a protective layer between them. You can use paper towels or dish towels as a barrier. There are also products specifically designed for this purpose, such as spongy pads with grippy undersides that prevent slipping and sliding, which can cause scratches. Caraway, for example, offers complimentary storage racks with their pans.

Hang Pans on a Pot Rack

If you have the space, consider installing a pot rack in your kitchen. These racks have hooks that you can use to hang your pans, eliminating the risk of scratches and keeping your pans easily accessible.

Mount a Pegboard to Your Wall

If you're short on space, a pegboard can be a great solution. Pegboards are flat sections of wood or metal with holes or slots that allow you to hang your pans. This is a clever way to utilise unused wall space and keep your pans scratch-free.

Use Soft, Non-Abrasive Materials When Cleaning

Before storing your pans, ensure they are clean and dry. Use soft sponges or cloths and mild cleaning solutions to preserve the integrity of the pan and avoid scratches.

Frequently asked questions