Here is How to Wash Non Stick Pans to Prevent Damaging Them
A lot of people often wonder how they can clean their nonstick pans without ruining them. A nonstick pan is as essential to the kitchen just like a great set of knives. Let’s assume that you have the perfect skillet and you cannot imagine scrambling your eggs on anything other than it. I bet you’d like to learn the best ways that you can keep that special pan in perfect shape. Here are some of the things you need to know in regards to how to wash a nonstick pan.
How Do You Clean A Burnt Nonstick Pan?
The best way to clean it is to hand wash your nonstick pan with mild soap and water after every use. Don’t use the dishwasher to clean it even if the manufacturer suggests that it is safe to do so. Since most dishwashers are operated using hot water and the detergents are harsh, the nonstick coating on your pan may end up deteriorating. Instead, use a sponge or brush and warm water to gently scrub dirt from the pan.
Test Kitchen Tip: Avoid the use of steel wool and scouring pads because they will scratch and damage your nonstick pan.
How Do You Get Burnt Food Off A Nonstick Pan?
If you find yourself a bit distracted when cooking a skillet dinner and your nonstick pan ends up getting burnt, the good news is that you can always save it. The following are the step you can follow to remove the burnt layer off your nonstick pan:
- Begin by placing the pan back on the stove
- Put at least ¼ cup of baking soda as well as 2 to 3 inches of plain water
- Simmer the mixture for at least 10 minutes
Let the mixture cool down before you can proceed to wash the pan using regular dish soap and warm water. The pan should now be back to its normal nonstick condition and sparkling clean.
How Do You Make A Nonstick Pan Nonstick Again?
If you’ve been having a nonstick pan in your kitchen and are familiar with it, then you’re aware of how there’s often some sticky buildup. If you notice your food has began to stick after using the pan to cook, don’t replace it immediately, vinegar will do the magic! Mix two parts water and one-part vinegar then let in simmer before you can proceed to wash the pan with soap. This will remove all the sticky residue which has been building up with time onto the pan.
Test Kitchen Tip: Avoid using cooking sprays when using a nonstick pan. Since a majority of brands have soy lecithin, they tend to cause a sticky buildup on them.
What Kind of Cooking Utensils Should I Use With A Nonstick Pan?
DO NOT use metal tongs on your nonstick pan! You don’t want to end up scratching the surface of your pan so avoid the use of metal utensils. You can opt for heatproof silicone utensils or wooden ones for cooking with on a nonstick pan.
Before you begin cooking some contest-winning pancakes, ensure that the spatula you’re using is made from the right material.
Is It Ok To Use High Heat With A Nonstick Pan?
The answer is NO, avoid using high heat when cooking with a nonstick pan. Make sure that the burner is on low or medium heat so as to protect the pan’s surface. This is because high heat can easily warp the coating which in turn will destroy the pan. Note that most nonstick pans cannot be used in the oven.
When Should You Replace A Nonstick Pan?
Regrettably, nonstick pans are not long lasting like some of the other kinds of cookware. If you pan tends to remain sticky even after being cleaned, it means that the interior has been scratched badly or its coating is flaking off and it’s time to get a new one. A good quality nonstick pan should last you for almost five years especially if you maintain it properly.
Conclusion
Similar to the tin man, your cooking utensils can be improved with the aid of a little lubrication. So, if you want your nonstick pan to serve you well, make the habit of rubbing oil (a teaspoon/ half a tablespoon is enough) on it before and after every use as a means of protecting its surface.
Once you’re done oiling the nonstick pan, dry it properly and store it well. If your storage involves stacking the pan with other utensils, make sure to place a clean, dry dish towel or washcloth (you can even use one of those reusable paper towels!) between each of them to avoid the surface damage and scratching.
