Step 1: Let your pan cool down completely
Before you begin cleaning your non-stick pan, allow it to cool down completely. Placing it under cold water immediately after cooking might lead to warping or discoloration. Let it sit on the stove or countertop for a while until you can handle it without getting burned.
Step 2: Remove food particles
Once the pan has cooled down, remove any food particles that you can see using a spatula or a soft brush. Be gentle while making sure that you get rid of all the food stuck to the bottom or sides of the pan, as it can be difficult to remove later.
Step 3: Rinse the pan properly-grip-and-use-a-stick” title=”How to properly grip and use a stick”>properly-grip-and-use-a-stick” title=”How to properly grip and use a stick”>with hot water
Rinse the non-stick pan with hot water to help loosen up any remaining food particles. Use a sponge to clean the pan and gently wipe it with a mild dish soap. Avoid using a harsh or abrasive cleaner as it can scratch the non-stick surface.
Step 4: Scrub with a plastic sponge
Use a plastic sponge to scrub the non-stick surface gently. Plastic sponges are less abrasive and are less likely to damage the coating on the pan. Avoid using metal scrubbers as they can scratch the non-stick surface and ruin it.
Step 5: Soak in warm water with baking soda
If the non-stick pan has stubborn stains, you can try soaking it in warm water with a bit of baking soda. Fill the pan with a mixture of warm water and baking soda then let it sit for about 30 minutes. Baking soda is a natural cleaner that helps to remove stains and neutralize odors.
Step 6: Rinse the pan with hot water again
After soaking, rinse the non-stick pan with hot water, using a sponge or plastic scrubber to remove any remaining food particles. Rinse the pan thoroughly until all the baking soda has been washed away.
Step 7: Dry the pan completely
Dry the pan immediately after rinsing it, using a clean towel or air dry it. Be sure to dry it carefully as moisture can lead to rust or corrosion.
Cleaning your non-stick pan regularly will help ensure that it maintains its non-stick surface. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, metal scrubbers, or cooking sprays to prevent scratches, discoloration, and damage to the non-stick coating.
In conclusion, cleaning a non-stick pan is not rocket science, but it does require care, patience, and the right tools and materials. Always remember to let your non-stick pan cool down before cleaning, use plastic sponges instead of metal ones, and avoid harsh cleaners. Taking good care of your non-stick pans will help them last longer and make cooking enjoyable.