Non-Stick Pan Woes: Why Is It Deteriorating?

Non-stick pans are a great addition to any kitchen, but they don't last forever. Over time, non-stick pans can start to deteriorate and lose their non-stick properties. This can be caused by a number of factors, including age, improper cleaning, and using the wrong cooking utensils. To prevent this from happening, it's important to take proper care of your non-stick pans. This includes avoiding stacking them, hand washing them, and using soft utensils like wooden spoons and silicone spatulas. Additionally, it's important to avoid using high heat and to season the pan regularly. By following these tips, you can help extend the lifespan of your non-stick pans and keep them in good condition for longer.

Using cooking spray

What to Do Instead

If you are trying to cut calories, invest in an oil mister, which allows you to coat the pan with a small amount of oil. You can also dip a paper towel or clean kitchen towel into your favourite cooking oil and wipe the interior of the pan before cooking. Using pure ingredients like olive oil will prevent any unnecessary build-up, and the oil won't damage the non-stick coating by burning prematurely.

Other Tips for Maintaining Non-Stick Pans

• Always add oil or fat to a cold pan before heating. This enhances the non-stick effects and prevents the pan from emitting potentially unhealthy fumes.
• Use wooden or heatproof silicone utensils to prevent scratching the non-stick surface.
• Wash by hand with a soft sponge, soft brush, or microfiber towel and dish soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners such as scouring pads and steel wool.
• Do not soak the pan in water overnight. Wash the pan before heading to bed.
• Replace the pan when you notice signs of peeling or wear, or when food begins to stick excessively.

Adding fat at the wrong time

Adding fat to a non-stick pan at the wrong time can cause it to deteriorate. With most cookware, the general rule of thumb is to heat the pan first, then add the oil or butter, and finally add the food. However, this does not apply to non-stick pans. Adding fat to a non-stick pan before heating it can enhance its non-stick effects. This is because the oil enhances the non-stick properties of the cookware before the food can soak up the oil.

Additionally, some non-stick pans can emit potentially unhealthy fumes when heated without a lubricant. The simple act of preheating a pan properly will stop food from sticking the majority of the time. When a pan is heated properly, the moisture in the food wicks away from the surface of the pan, and the fat that you add makes a slip and slide for your food on top of that hot pan. A lukewarm pan will draw the moisture to the pan, and the moisture makes the food stick.

It is also important to note that the timing of adding the fat to a non-stick pan is crucial. When using high heat, do not heat the oil for too long. Be quick about it – add the fat, turn around, grab your food, and put it in the pan. When your pan is heated to a high temperature, the fat will burn quickly.

Using the wrong utensils

Non-stick pans are coated with a substance such as Teflon, which creates a non-reactive and frictionless surface for cooking. However, this coating can be damaged by using metal utensils such as spatulas, spoons, forks, and knives. These metal utensils have sharp edges that can scratch or chip the non-stick surface.

Over time, if the non-stick coating is compromised, small fragments of the coating may end up in your food, and the pan will no longer be non-stick, which defeats the purpose of using a non-stick pan. Therefore, it is important to use the correct utensils when cooking with non-stick pans.

So, which utensils should you use? Wooden, plastic, or silicone utensils are best for non-stick pans. Wooden utensils are sturdy and can last for decades if properly cared for (i.e. never put them in the dishwasher). However, they are not ideal for flipping food. Silicone utensils are gentle on non-stick pans and can withstand high temperatures, but they may be damaged by sharp knives. Nylon utensils are also an option, as they are durable and sturdy, but they can be difficult to clean and may melt if exposed to high heat.

By using the correct utensils and taking proper care of your non-stick pans, you can extend their lifespan and maintain their non-stick properties.

Improper washing

• Always wash non-stick pans by hand. Even if your non-stick pan is labelled as "dishwasher-safe", the high temperatures and harsh detergents in the dishwasher can break down the non-stick surface.
• Wash your non-stick pans immediately after use. The non-stick quality will keep most debris from adhering, but the longer a pan sits out, the easier it will be for food to cling to it.
• Use hot, soapy water and a gentle dish soap to cut through grease. Wash the entire inside and outside of the pan with soap, water, and a microfiber cloth or soft sponge.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaning materials such as steel wool, scouring pads, or stiff scrubbing brushes, as these can damage the non-stick coating. Instead, opt for soft sponges, soft brushes, microfiber towels, or cleaning cloths.
• If you need to remove burnt-on food or grease, try using a natural cleaning solution such as a mixture of baking soda and water or olive oil, or a combination of vinegar and water. Bring the mixture to a boil in the pan, then wash with warm, soapy water.
• Dry your non-stick pans completely before storing them. If you need to stack your pans, place a dry washcloth, dish towel, or paper towel between each pan to prevent scratching.
• Always wait for your non-stick pan to cool down before washing it. Submerging a hot pan in cold water or running cool water over it can cause the pan to warp.
• Avoid using cooking sprays as these can leave a residue that is difficult to remove and can shorten the lifespan of your non-stick pan. Instead, use a small amount of oil such as canola, olive, vegetable, corn, grapeseed, sesame, or avocado oil.

Using it for storage

Using non-stick pans for storage can cause additional wear and tear on the non-stick finish. It is recommended to transfer leftovers into containers designed for the refrigerator instead. This is because storing food in non-stick pans can cause scratches and damage to the non-stick coating.

To prevent scratches and damage to the non-stick coating, it is important to use proper stacking techniques when storing non-stick pans. Here are some tips to help you:

• Use stacking protectors, such as felt pads or pan stack liners, between each pan to prevent scratches and extend the life of the non-stick coating.
• Utilize a pot and pan organizer rack to store your non-stick pans upright, minimizing contact and preventing scratches.
• If your non-stick pans come with lids, use a lid organizer to keep them neatly arranged and easily accessible.
• Install a wall-mounted pot rack if you have limited cabinet space. This will keep your non-stick pans within reach while freeing up cupboard space.
• Use cabinet shelf organizers to create additional storage space in your cabinets, allowing you to stack pans more efficiently and prevent overcrowding.

In addition to using proper stacking techniques, it is important to clean and dry your non-stick pans before storing them. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintenance:

• Clean your non-stick pans with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth to remove any food particles or grease.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh scrub brushes as these can scratch and damage the coating.
• Dry your non-stick pans completely before storing them to prevent any moisture from damaging the non-stick coating.
• Avoid stacking pans while they are still hot, as this could lead to warping or damage to the non-stick coating.
• Store your non-stick pans in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and extreme temperatures.

By following these tips, you can help extend the lifespan of your non-stick pans and maintain their performance.

Frequently asked questions