1. Use the right utensils
One of the most critical things to keep in mind when cleaning non-stick pans is to use the right utensils. Plastic or silicone utensils are ideal as they don’t scratch the surface of the pan. Metal utensils, on the other hand, can easily scratch the non-stick coating, which leads to food sticking to the pan and the loss of its non-stick feature.
2. Allow the pan to cool before cleaning it
Never clean a non-stick pan while it’s still hot. It’ll damage the coating, and you won’t be able to enjoy its non-stick feature for a long time. Allow the pan to cool down first, and then proceed with cleaning it.
3. Wipe the pan with a paper towel or soft sponge
After using the non-stick pan, remove as much food residue as you can with a paper towel or a soft sponge. Don’t use a scouring pad or a brush to scrub the pan as it can damage the non-stick coating. If you’re having difficulty removing the food residue, fill the pan with warm water and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen it up.
4. Use dishwashing liquid and warm water to clean the pan
The ideal way to clean a non-stick pan is to use dishwashing liquid and warm water. Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid to the pan, and then fill it with warm water. Use a sponge or a soft brush to clean the pan gently. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or powders that can damage the non-stick coating.
5. Avoid putting non-stick pans in the dishwasher
While some non-stick pans are dishwasher safe, it’s best to avoid putting them in the dishwasher. The harsh detergent and high heat can damage the non-stick coating, making it less effective. Instead, hand wash your non-stick pans and dry them with a soft cloth or towel.
6. Never stack or store non-stick pans together
Avoid stacking non-stick pans on top of each other as it can cause scratches or damage to the non-stick coating. Also, never store non-stick pans when they’re hot. Allow them to cool down first before putting them away.
7. Use baking soda for tough stains
If there are tough stains on your non-stick pan, you can use baking soda to get rid of them. Mix baking soda and water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the stained areas and wait for a few minutes. Gently scrub the pan with a soft sponge or brush, and then rinse it with warm water.
In conclusion, cleaning non-stick pans requires special care and attention. To maintain the non-stick feature, avoid using metal utensils, abrasive cleaners or powders, and don’t stack the pans together. By following these tips, you can ensure your non-stick pans will last for a long time and will always perform at their best.