HOW TO CLEAN POTS AND PANS

To help refresh your pots and pans, start by consulting the manufacturer’s care guide. Many stainless steel, ceramic and anodized aluminum pieces are dishwasher-friendly, but cast iron, copper and non-stick items are typically best maintained with hand-washing and gentle care.

Your pots and pans are the foundation of your culinary artistry, helping you craft everything from delicate reductions to bold, seared flavors. Show them the same attention they bring to your cooking. Whether you’re restoring the radiant shine of stainless steel or tackling the caramelized bits left behind after a high-heat sauté, these care tips will help you keep your cookware performing beautifully—meal after meal.

WHAT CAN YOU USE TO CLEAN POTS AND PANS?

The right cleaning method depends on your cookware’s material. Always check care guidelines before using any cleaning agents. Here are some common methods to help remove grime, grease or residue:

• Baking soda: Create a paste with water and baking soda to scrub burnt or stained areas on stainless steel or aluminum cookware.

• Lemon: Use halved lemons with salt to polish tarnished copper pots or help dissolve tough stains. This method is also great for aluminum cookware.

• Vinegar: Combine vinegar with water and boil in ceramic cookware to help loosen stubborn residue.

• Dish soap: Use mild soap and a soft sponge for non-stick, ceramic and other sensitive surfaces.

• Salt: Sprinkle salt on stuck-on grime in cast iron pans and scrub with a brush to help remove residue.

• Dishwasher: The dishwasher may be safe for some anodized aluminum, ceramic and stainless steel cookware, but always check for a "dishwasher-safe" label on the bottom of the pan or as mentioned in the care guide.

CLEANING GUIDE FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF COOKWARE

Properly cleaning your cookware is key to maintaining its quality and performance. Different materials require specific care—using the wrong method can lead to issues like rust on cast iron or scratches on delicate surfaces. Follow these tips to help clean and restore your pots and pans.

HOW TO CLEAN CAST IRON POTS AND PANS

Cast iron cookware requires careful maintenance to preserve its seasoning and help prevent rust. Follow these steps to clean and care for your cast iron pots and pans:

1. Rinse after cooling: Allow the pan to cool completely, then rinse it under warm water to help remove food particles. Remember not to let your cast iron cookware soak.

2. Scrub gently: Use a stiff nylon brush or sponge for cleaning. For stuck-on food, sprinkle salt over the area and scrub to help loosen residue without damaging the seasoning.

3. Avoid soap: Skip dish soap unless absolutely necessary to help maintain the natural non-stick properties of the pan.

4. Dry immediately: After washing, dry the pan thoroughly with a towel to help prevent rust.

5. Reapply oil: Lightly coat the pan with vegetable oil or shortening, wiping away any excess to restore its protective layer.

6. Store dry: Always store the cookware in a dry place to avoid moisture-related damage.

CAN CAST IRON PANS GO IN THE DISHWASHER?

No, cast iron pans should not go in the dishwasher. Dishwasher cycles and detergents can strip the seasoning, cause rust and damage the pan’s surface. Instead, always hand wash cast iron with warm water and a brush.

HOW TO CLEAN STAINLESS STEEL POTS AND PANS

Stainless steel cookware is known for its durability and versatility, but proper cleaning is important to maintain its sleek finish. Follow these steps to help keep your stainless steel pots and pans in great condition:

1. Cool before cleaning: Allow the pan to cool completely before rinsing to help prevent warping.

2. Rinse and wash: Rinse with warm water to loosen food particles, then clean with a soft sponge and mild dish soap. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the surface.

3. Remove stubborn stains: For burnt-on residue, fill the pan with equal parts water and vinegar, bring it to a boil, and then add a few tablespoons of baking soda. Let the mixture cool before scrubbing gently to try and lift the residue.

4. Rinse and dry: Rinse thoroughly to remove any cleaning solution and dry immediately with a soft towel to prevent water spots and help maintain the shine.

CAN STAINLESS STEEL PANS GO IN THE DISHWASHER?

Yes, many stainless steel pans can go in the dishwasher, but it’s important to check the manufacturer’s care instructions first. Dishwasher cycles and detergents may cause damage. Hand washing with warm water and mild soap helps you maintain stainless steel cookware’s shine and longevity.

HOW TO CLEAN ALUMINUM POTS AND PANS

Aluminum cookware is known for its heat conductivity and lightweight design, but proper cleaning is key to maintaining its shine and functionality. Follow these steps to help clean and care for your aluminum pots and pans:

1. Cool completely: Allow the pan to cool fully before cleaning to help avoid warping or damage.

2. Soak and scrub: For basic cleaning, soak the cookware in warm water with mild dish soap. Clean gently with a soft sponge or cloth to help remove any food residue, avoiding using steel wool or harsh abrasives.

3. Tackle stains: For tougher stains, apply a paste made from baking soda and water, then let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently. Alternatively, boil water and add a few tablespoons of salt, let it cool, and scrub to try to restore the surface.

4. Dry thoroughly: After cleaning, dry the cookware completely with a soft towel to help prevent water spots or mineral buildup.

5. Store properly: Keep your aluminum pots and pans in a clean, dry cabinet to help maintain their condition.

CAN ALUMINUM POTS AND PANS GO IN THE DISHWASHER?

Many aluminum pots and pans are not dishwasher-safe due to the high heat and detergents, which can cause tarnishing, discoloration or a rough texture. 

It’s best to hand wash aluminum cookware unless the manufacturer specifically designates it as dishwasher-safe. Always check for a "dishwasher-safe" label or consult the care guide to avoid potential damage.

HOW TO CLEAN NON-STICK POTS AND PANS

Non-stick cookware requires gentle cleaning to help preserve its coating and maintain its performance. Always avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh cleaners. Follow these steps to clean non-stick pots and pans:

1. Let the pan cool: Allow the cookware to cool completely before cleaning to help prevent warping.

2. Wash gently: Use a soft sponge, warm water and mild dish soap to help clean the surface without scratching.

3. Soak if necessary: For stuck-on food, fill the pan with warm water, add some drops of dish soap, and let it soak to loosen cooked-on food.

4. Dry thoroughly: Once clean, dry the pan with a soft cloth to help prevent water spots and maintain the non-stick finish.

CAN NON-STICK PANS GO IN THE DISHWASHER?

Some non-stick pans are dishwasher-safe, but it depends on the specific pan. Always check the manufacturer’s care guide or look for a "dishwasher-safe" label to ensure proper cleaning and avoid potential damage.

HOW TO CLEAN COPPER POTS AND PANS

Copper cookware requires careful cleaning to maintain its appearance and cooking ability. Light messes can typically be handled with warm water, dish soap and a soft sponge, while tarnished or burnt areas may need additional care. Follow these steps:

1. Wash everyday messes: Hand-wash with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge, scrubbing gently to remove residue.

2. Soak for stubborn stains: For burnt-on food, soak the pan in warm, soapy water until the residue softens. If needed, simmer water with a few tablespoons of baking soda until it evaporates, then scrub with a nylon sponge while still warm.

3. Polish tarnished areas: Make a paste with equal parts of vinegar, salt and flour, then brush on with a soft sponge. Let the mixture sit for 30 seconds, then polish in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel.

CAN COPPER POTS AND PANS GO IN THE DISHWASHER?

Copper pots and pans should not go in the dishwasher, as it could tarnish and damage the surface. Always hand wash copper cookware to help preserve it.

HOW TO CLEAN CERAMIC COOKWARE

Ceramic cookware is typically easy to clean and maintain, but hand-washing is a good method to help protect its surface. Follow these steps to keep your ceramic pots and pans in good condition:

1. Cool before cleaning: Allow your cookware to fully cool before washing.

2. Hand wash gently: Use a soft dishcloth or non-abrasive scrubbing pad with warm, soapy water to clean.

3. Loosen stuck-on food: Combine two cups of water and one half cup of vinegar in the pan. Let it soak for a few hours or boil for a few minutes to help loosen grime.

4. Rinse and dry: Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

CAN CERAMIC COOKWARE GO IN THE DISHWASHER?

Some ceramic cookware is dishwasher-safe, but it varies by product. Dishwashing may not be ideal for preserving the finish, particularly for embellished ceramic cookware. Always check the manufacturer’s care guide or look for a "dishwasher-safe" label to determine the best cleaning method for your ceramic cookware.

HOW TO REFRESH THE BOTTOMS OF YOUR PANS

The bottoms of pans can collect stubborn stains and residue over time, but with the right approach, they can be refreshed and maintained. Follow these simple methods to clean the bottoms of your pans:

• Baking soda paste: Mix three parts baking soda with one part water to create a thick paste. Apply it to the stained or burnt areas, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub with a soft sponge to help remove grime.

• Add vinegar for tough stains: For more challenging spots, enhance the baking soda paste with a few tablespoons of vinegar to help break down stuck-on food. Scrub gently and rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure these cleaning methods are safe for your specific cookware.

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