Home remedies to rescue burnt pans and save your cookware

Sometimes, during frying, the pan gets burned. Removing dried grease and food residues can become extremely difficult if we don't clean it immediately. It's important to know that aesthetics aren't the only reason to clean your pan thoroughly—regular cleaning extends its lifespan. It prevents harmful substances from being transferred to the foods you prepare.

One proven home method for cleaning a burnt pan is a paste made of baking soda. Baking soda is a well-known cleaning agent that effectively tackles dirt and unpleasant odors. You'll need six teaspoons of baking soda and 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide to prepare this paste. Mix the ingredients until you achieve a paste-like consistency, then apply it to the burns inside the pan. After about ten minutes, gently wash off the paste with dish soap and water. Combining baking soda and hydrogen peroxide effectively dissolves tough stains and reveals a fresh surface.

Another simple and inexpensive method is to use citric acid. This widely available agent effectively handles burns and deposits. Add a teaspoon of citric acid to a small amount of water and bring it to a boil. Place the burnt pan in another dish, then pour the hot solution over it. Let it sit for a few hours to allow the citric acid to work on the burns. Afterward, wipe the dirty surface with a clean cloth, wash with dish soap, and dry. This method is not only practical but also safe for various pan surfaces, including delicate ones like Teflon or ceramic.

Another solution is to use cola and dishwasher rinse aid. While it may sound unusual, this method is gaining popularity among internet users. To try it, prepare a mixture of three tablespoons of baking soda, three tablespoons of dish soap, three tablespoons of dishwasher rinse aid, and two cups of cola. Mix everything and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the stains and place the pan in a plastic bag for about an hour. After this time, scrub the pan thoroughly and wash it as usual. This unusual method effectively removes even the toughest stains.

When cleaning a pan, it's essential to avoid basic mistakes that can lead to damage. One of these is pouring cold water onto a hot pan. However, it may seem like a natural reflex; sudden temperature changes can cause cracks and permanently damage the coating. Another mistake is using inappropriate cleaning tools, such as harsh sponges or aggressive detergents, which can scratch and destroy the pan's surface, especially Teflon-coated ones.

When cleaning pans with a delicate coating, such as Teflon or ceramic, special attention should be paid to the manufacturer's recommendations. Most Teflon pans should not be scrubbed with harsh tools or washed in a dishwasher, as this may damage the coating. Instead, washing with a soft sponge and a bit of dish soap is recommended. It's also important to avoid using too much fat during cooking and to remove food residues to prevent permanent surface burning regularly.