How To Clean Stainless Steel Pans Perfectly

Stainless steel pans are a kitchen staple for many, given their versatility and durability. However, they are not impervious to burnt-on food, stains, water spots, and discolouration. While some people may be tempted to put their stainless steel pans in the dishwasher, this article will explore whether it is better to hand-wash them and, if so, the best methods for doing so.

Cleaning stainless steel pans with baking soda and vinegar

Stainless steel pans are durable and non-reactive, making them a common choice for cooks. However, they are not impervious to burnt-on messes and discoloration. Here is a guide on how to clean stainless steel pans with baking soda and vinegar.

Removing Burnt Food and Stains with Baking Soda and Vinegar

For tougher stains, a simple, inexpensive way to clean stainless steel pans is by using baking soda and vinegar. Here are the steps:

• Add a few spoonfuls of baking soda to your scorched pan.
• Pour in enough water to cover the burnt areas.
• Bring the solution to a boil and simmer until most of the water has evaporated.
• Turn off the heat and wait for the pan to cool down.
• Scrub away the buildup with a non-abrasive sponge.
• Wash the pan with hot, soapy water.

Removing Blue-ish Rainbow Stains with Vinegar

Sometimes, stainless steel pans develop blue-ish, prismatic stains called heat tints due to the activation of chromium content from high heat. To remove these stains, follow these steps:

• Add white distilled vinegar or apple cider vinegar to the affected area.
• Dilute the vinegar with water.
• Rub the solution onto the pan with a sponge or soft cloth.
• Wash the pan with soap and water to remove any lingering odours.

Cleaning the Outside of a Stainless Steel Pan with Baking Soda and Lemon

To clean the outside of a stainless steel pan, you will need a bit more elbow grease. Here are the steps:

• Clean the inside and outside of the pan with washing-up liquid, sponge, and a more abrasive scrubber.
• Place a tea towel on your countertop, large enough to fit the size of the pan.
• Boil a kettle of water and pour the hot water over the back of the pan.
• Place the pan upside down on the tea towel.
• Sprinkle baking soda over the back of the pan using a tea strainer for even sprinkling.
• Let the solution sit for 10-20 minutes for lighter stains, and longer for tougher stains.
• Squeeze the juice of a lemon over the pan.
• Use a wet pot brush or copper cloth to scour the dirt off the pan.
• Rinse the pan and clean it with washing-up liquid.

Removing discolouration from stainless steel pans

Stainless steel pans are durable and excellent conductors of heat, making them a kitchen essential. However, they can develop discolouration from frequent use and overheating. While these stains won't come out with regular dish soap, there are several methods to restore your pans to their former glory.

Vinegar

Pour some vinegar into the pan and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the pan with a non-abrasive sponge, rinse with cold water, and wipe dry with a microfiber towel.

Baking Soda

Mix a few spoonfuls of baking soda with enough water to cover the discoloured areas. Bring this to a boil and simmer until most of the water has evaporated. Turn off the heat and wait for the pan to cool before scrubbing with a non-abrasive sponge. Wash the pan in hot, soapy water, and wipe it dry.

Bar Keepers Friend

Bar Keepers Friend is a popular product for cleaning stainless steel. Sprinkle the powder on the surface of the pan, add a little water to make a paste, and scrub the stained areas. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse. Repeat if necessary.

Shaving Cream

According to a user on Reddit, shaving cream can effectively remove discolouration from stainless steel.

Other Tips

• Olive oil or vegetable oil can be used to remove discolouration and restore shine. Simply wipe the oil on the pan and rub it in the direction of the steel grain.
• For hard water stains, boil a mixture of one part vinegar to three parts water in the pan. Let it cool, then wash with soap and water.
• Always let your stainless steel pan cool down before cleaning to avoid warping.
• Never use abrasive tools like steel wool or harsh cleaners like bleach or oven cleaner, as these can damage the surface.

The best tools for cleaning stainless steel pans

Stainless steel pans are a kitchen staple for many good reasons. They are durable, heat up quickly and evenly, retain heat well, and are non-reactive, meaning you can cook just about anything in them without damaging the surface. However, they are not impervious to burnt-on food, messes, and discoloration. To keep your stainless steel pans in good condition, it is important to know how to clean them properly. Here are some of the best tools for cleaning stainless steel pans:

• Non-abrasive sponges or scouring pads: Use a non-abrasive sponge or a soft scouring pad, such as a Scotch-Brite Dobie pad, to scrub your pan with warm soapy water for everyday cleanup. These sponges are gentle on the pan's surface and will not cause scratches.
• Microfiber cloths: After washing your pan, dry it off immediately with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and keep your pan looking spotless.
• Dish brushes: A long-handled dish brush can be useful for loosening any bits of stuck-on food before washing the pan.
• Spatulas or wooden spoons: Use a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape away stuck-on food bits. Fill the pan with enough soapy water to cover the residue, bring it to a boil, and then scrape and remove the food easily.
• Baking soda: For tougher messes, burnt food, or oil stains, baking soda is a simple and inexpensive solution. Sprinkle some baking soda in your pan, add water, bring it to a boil, and simmer until the water evaporates. Then, scrub away the buildup with a non-abrasive sponge and wash with hot soapy water.
• Distilled white vinegar: To remove discoloration from your stainless steel pan, simply pour some vinegar into the pan, let it sit for a few minutes, scrub with a non-abrasive sponge, rinse with cold water, and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.
• Commercial cleaners: For more stubborn stains, you can use a commercial cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend. Sprinkle the powder on the surface of the pan, add a little water to make a paste, scrub the stained areas, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using commercial cleaners.
• Paper towels: Use paper towels to wipe out excess oil or grease from the pan before cleaning.

How to prevent scorch marks on stainless steel pans

Scorching occurs when a stainless steel pan is heated without enough fat or liquid in the pan. To prevent scorch marks on your stainless steel pans, follow these tips:

• Always ensure there is enough fat or liquid in the pan.
• Heat up your stainless steel pan on low to medium heat for two to three minutes before adding oil, fat, or food.
• Move the food around frequently with a spoon or tongs so that it doesn't sit at the bottom of the pan and cook more evenly.
• Preheat your pan before adding oil, then wait until the oil is hot before adding food.
• Avoid using cold water on a hot pan, as this can cause warping and disfiguration.
• Avoid using harsh scrubbers or cleaners, such as steel wool or wire scrubbers, as these can scratch the surface and make the pan more vulnerable to corrosion.
• Always use a non-abrasive or "stainless steel-approved" scrubber to clean your pan.
• Avoid cleaning with salt or salt water, as this can lead to pitting in stainless steel.

How to store stainless steel pans

Stainless steel pans are a kitchen staple due to their durability, quick and even heat distribution, and non-reactivity. However, they require proper care and storage to maintain their functionality and appearance. Here are some tips on how to store your stainless steel pans to keep them in optimal condition:

Avoid Stacking Pans Directly on Top of Each Other:

To prevent scratches and maintain the smooth surface of your stainless steel pans, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other. Scratches can make the pans more difficult to clean and provide crevices for bacteria to grow. Instead, use cookware protectors, such as felt or fabric pan protectors, between each pan to create a soft barrier. These protectors are thin and allow for efficient stacking while providing a layer of protection.

Store in a Safe and Accessible Location:

Choose a storage location that is easily accessible and safe for your stainless-steel pans. Storing them in a cabinet that is within easy reach, as suggested by Leanne Stapf, COO of The Cleaning Authority, ensures that you can retrieve and put away your pans without hassle. This accessibility also encourages proper care and maintenance. Additionally, ensure that the storage area is secure, so the pans don't accidentally fall and get damaged or cause injury.

Hang Pans and Lids:

If cabinet space is limited, consider hanging your stainless steel pans and their lids. This method not only saves space but also keeps your pans within arm's reach. You can use stainless steel dowel pins installed above the countertop to hang your pans and lids. This creative solution provides easy access to your cookware while adding a unique design element to your kitchen.

Use Proper Storage Materials:

When storing your stainless steel pans, avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the surface. Felt pan protectors, cotton or linen towels, or soft cloth liners are ideal for preventing scratches. These materials are gentle on the pans' surfaces while providing a barrier between them. Additionally, ensure that the storage area is clean and dry to prevent dust, grease, or moisture buildup, which can affect the condition of your pans over time.

Organise Pans and Lids Together:

To make retrieving and storing your pans more efficient, keep the lids with their corresponding pans. You can achieve this by stacking the pans with their lids on top or by hanging them together. This organisation method ensures that you don't spend extra time searching for the right lid when you need it. It also helps to maintain a tidy and organised kitchen space.

Frequently asked questions