We promise, your cookware is salvageable.
So, if one method doesn’t take care of the burnt, stuck-on mess, try another.
If you’re a distracted cook, you might want to bookmark this page so it’s handy!
Photo:Connect Images/BRETT STEVENS/Getty Images
Abrasive cleaners or scouring sponges should never be used on non-stick surfaces.
This will “hold” the pan until you’re ready to clean it.
Use hot, soapy water to wash away as much burnt-on food as possible and rinse the pan.
Add about one-fourth cup of baking soda to the bottom of the damp pot or pan.
Cut a lemon in half and use it to scrub the pan.
There will be some fizzing but that reaction will help loosen burnt bits.
Rinse well and repeat with the other lemon half if needed.
Dishwasher Tablet
Dishwasher detergents contain strong grease fighters and surfactants to loosen food on surfaces.
This method should not be used on non-stick surfaces orcast iron cookware.
Add enough water to cover the burnt-on area and add a dishwasher detergent tablet.
Place the pan on the stovetop and heat on medium to high heat until the water boils.
Continue boiling for about two minutes.
Turn off the stovetop and allow the water to cool.
Empty the water and scrub the pan with a soft-bristled nylon brush or scrubbing sponge.
Rinse well with hot water.
Add enough equal parts water and vinegar to cover the burnt surfaces of the pan.
Bring the vinegar solution to a boil on the stovetop.
Wash the pan in hot, soapy water and rinse well.
That same silicone will help soften burnt food so it releases from the metal pan.
Since this method requires soaking, don’t use it for cast iron pans.
Add enough boiling water to cover the burnt food and add a dryer sheet.
Use two for a large pot.
Empty the water and use the dryer sheet to wipe away the food.
Wash the pan in warm, soapy water, rinse well, and dry.
This is another soaking method so don’t use it on cast iron pans.
Add hot water to the pan to cover the burned surfaces.
Add six Alka-Seltzer tablets or one-fourth cup of citric acid powder.
Wash the pan in warm, soapy water, rinse, and dry.
Aluminum Foil and Salt
One of the best scrubbers for pans is a ball ofaluminum foil.
But, this scrubber and some table salt do a nice job for the final stuck-on food.
Do not use it on cast iron or pots with a non-stick coating.
Make a ball from a clean sheet of aluminum foil to form a ball.
Sprinkle the bottom of the damp pan with a layer of table salt.
Scrub with the foil ball and rinse the pan well.
