Kitchen magic. Ditch tough scrubbing with these simple pan‑cleaning tricks
Dirty pans are not just unattractive, they can also affect our cooking. A dirty pan can increase meal preparation time and discourage us from even wanting to cook. So how can we avoid this problem?
8:13 AM EST, January 17, 2024
Can pans truly be kept clean?
Pans not only get dirty on the inside but also on the outside. Our pans can quickly accumulate grime between contact with a dirty stove burner and any grease that may splash onto the base during cooking. Consequently, stubborn stains and dried grease cling to the surface over time, leading many people to discard pans rather than spending time cleaning them. But there is a way to avoid this. By being careful during cooking to avoid spillages and by implementing regular kitchen cleaning, the accumulation of dirt on our cookware can be minimized.
Burnt-on food should be removed immediately (once the pan has cooled down). Often, warm water with some dish soap is all that's needed, helping to avoid the time-consuming task of scrubbing dried and hardened leftovers. So, what can be done with severely burnt-on food?
At-home methods for cleaning pans
Few people know how to combat stubborn grime on pans. Resorting to expensive cleaning substances is not always the best solution. Instead, simple home remedies can often restore the pan's shine and make it enjoyable to use once again.
A paste made from baking soda works wonders on any dirt collected on the pan. Not only is it safe for the pan's surface, it's also extremely effective. To use this method, combine baking soda and water in a 1:1 ratio and add a few drops of dish soap. Apply this mixture to the pan and let it sit for a few hours. Then, scrub lightly with a sponge and the dirt should effortlessly come off.
Alternatively, try a mixture of baking soda and table salt. However, exercise caution with this combination, since it can act like a strong cleaning milk and may damage aluminum surfaces.
An ordinary kitchen liquid that cleans any pan
Vinegar is excellent for removing all sorts of stains. Its acidic properties enable it to rid the pan of mineral build-up, soap scum, rust, and grease in no time. Be careful with enamel pans, though, as vinegar can cause their surface to appear dull.
A 2 tablespoons of vinegar and 1/2 cup of water works wonders. Simply pour it over the dirty areas or the entire pan. If necessary, let the pan soak in this solution to help remove any residual stubborn fat and grime.
