Cleaning Burner Pans: Removing Stubborn Crap With Ease

Burnt-on food in a pan can be a real pain to remove, but there are several methods to tackle this issue. Some common household products that can be used include baking soda, vinegar, lemons, dishwasher tablets, dryer sheets, and aluminum foil. One method involves boiling a mixture of water and vinegar in the pan, adding baking soda, and then scrubbing the pan. Another method involves using lemons and water, bringing it to a boil, and then scrubbing. A third method involves using a dishwasher tablet and hot water to scrub the pan. A fourth method involves using dryer sheets and hot water to soak the pan, then scrubbing. A fifth method involves using aluminum foil and baking soda to scrub the pan. Each of these methods can be effective in removing burnt-on food from a pan, and the best method may depend on the type of pan and the severity of the burnt-on food.

Vinegar and baking soda

Using Vinegar and Baking Soda to Clean Burner Pans

Method 1:

This method uses affordable pantry items that most people have on hand. Fill your dirty pan with equal parts water and vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Remove the pan from the heat and let it soak for up to 15 minutes. Discard the liquid down the drain, then use a sponge or scouring pad to scrub away any remaining burnt-on bits. If spots remain, apply a paste made of baking soda mixed with a little water and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing again.

Editor's Tip: Mixing baking soda and vinegar can cause a somewhat explosive reaction. For this method, slowly add the baking soda to the boiling water.

Method 2:

This method is best for all types of pots and pans. Boil a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar in the pan to loosen the burned-on food. Remove the pan from the heat, carefully empty the liquid, and add baking soda. When the pan has cooled enough to touch, add more baking soda and scrub away as much burnt food as possible with a scouring sponge, nylon brush, or polycarbonate plastic scraper.

Method 3:

This method is best for all types of pots and pans; avoid soaking cast-iron. Add enough white vinegar to cover the burnt food and then sprinkle with baking soda. Wait for the fizzing to stop and wipe out the pan with a non-abrasive sponge.

Method 4:

This method is best for aluminium, stainless steel, enamel-coated, and copper pans; avoid soaking cast-iron. For pans with baked-on gunk, one of the best solutions is a mix of baking soda, hot water, and dishwashing liquid. Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda, 1/2 cup of warm water, and a tablespoon of dishwashing liquid. Allow the cookware to soak for 30 to 60 minutes. Scrub the pan with a plastic scrubber, paying extra attention to the curves of the dish. Rinse the pan well. For stubborn, stuck-on residue, make a fresh cleaning solution and heat the pan on the stovetop until it boils.

Dishwasher tablets

This method is quick and easy, and it can be done in just a few minutes. It is also relatively inexpensive, as dishwasher tablets typically cost less than 50 cents each. However, it is important to note that different tablets may yield different results, and some pans may require more scrubbing or additional treatments. Additionally, this method is not recommended for non-stick pans, as the coating can be toxic if it comes off.

Overall, using dishwasher tablets is a convenient and affordable way to clean burnt pans, but it may not always be completely effective, and it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your cookware.

• Wear gloves when handling the tablets to protect your hands.
• Use powdered dishwasher tablets instead of liquid ones, as they are more effective at removing burnt-on grime.
• For very burnt pans, you may need to use more than one tablet.
• For best results, leave the plastic coating on the tablets while scrubbing.

Boiled lemons

To clean a burnt pan with boiled lemons, cut two or three lemons into quarters or slices, and place them in the pan. Add enough water to cover the burnt area of the pan—the lemons will float, so there's no need to cover them. Bring the water to a boil and let it continue to boil for around five minutes, or until you see food particles floating to the surface. Remove the lemons and pour the water down the drain. Use a brush or scouring pad to scrub away any remaining burnt pieces, and rinse the pan with hot, clean water.

This method is simple and requires very little scrubbing effort. It's also a great way to make use of leftover lemons.

Deglazing technique

Deglazing is a simple and effective technique to clean your pans and also create a delicious sauce. It involves adding a liquid to a hot pan to remove the stuck-on food bits. Here is a step-by-step guide to the deglazing technique:

Step 1: Prepare your stovetop dish

Start by cooking your food of choice. This could be meat, fish, or vegetables. Make sure to prevent food bits from burning on the bottom of the pan by adjusting the heat accordingly.

Step 2: Remove food and add liquid

Once your food is cooked, remove it from the pan, and while the pan is still hot, carefully add your chosen deglazing liquid. This could be wine, stock, juice, or even water. Adding liquid to a hot pan will create steam, so take caution.

Step 3: Scrape stuck-on food bits

As soon as the liquid hits the hot surface of the pan, quickly and vigorously scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon or spatula to loosen and remove the stuck-on food bits.

Step 4: Boil and simmer the mixture

Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce it to a simmer. This step helps to intensify the flavor. Continue simmering until you reach your desired consistency. If you used alcohol, ensure it is fully evaporated before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Use the mixture as a sauce or glaze

The deglazed mixture can now be used as a flavorful sauce or drizzle to accompany your dish. You can also add spices or thickening agents to further enhance the sauce.

It is important to note that while deglazing is an excellent technique for cleaning your pans, it is not suitable for non-stick pans. The process works by releasing food particles that have stuck to the pan, and non-stick pans are designed to prevent this from happening. Cast iron, stainless steel, or aluminum pans are better suited for deglazing as they allow food to stick and caramelize, resulting in a more flavorful sauce.

Aluminium foil and baking soda

First, rinse your dirty pot in hot water and drain. Then, sprinkle generously with 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Add a few teaspoons of hot water back to your pan to form a paste with the baking soda. Then, begin scrubbing with a golf ball-sized piece of crumpled foil. Continue scrubbing until all the burnt debris lifts, then rinse with hot, soapy water to finish cleaning.

This method is like a "deluxe" version of the baking soda and vinegar method. It works just as well, but faster and more effectively, thanks to the foil's enhanced scrubbing power.

Baking soda is a great option for cleaning a burnt pot or pan because it has mild abrasive properties, and its alkaline pH can help neutralise acidic burnt foods. It can also combine with an acid such as vinegar or lemon juice to create a fizzing reaction that helps loosen burnt food.

Frequently asked questions