Why pouring cold water into hot pots could wreck your cookware
3:34 PM EDT, September 21, 2024
How many times have you instinctively poured cold water into a hot pot right after cooking? You're probably not alone. Although this habit might seem harmless or even helpful for cleaning, it can actually cause serious damage to your cookware.
After preparing dinner, most of us immediately fill the pots with water, thinking that food residues will not dry out and that cleaning will be easier. But is that really the case? It turns out that this seemingly effective practice can do more harm than good.
Do you pour cold water into a hot pot? Here's why it's a bad idea
A sudden change in temperature causes thermal shock, which can lead to the pot's surface deformation. Over time, the bottom of the cookware may crack and become uneven, causing instability on the stovetop. Ultimately, food will heat unevenly, which can lead to burning or undercooking.
This issue is particularly noticeable with frying pans operating at high temperatures, increasing the risk of damage. However, pots are also susceptible, so it's worth changing your habits and taking care of your cookware.
How to clean dried pots and pans
Instead of pouring cold water into a dirty pot, it's better to let it cool naturally. Then you can soak it but with warm water. Soaking is more effective with a bit of dish soap. After a few minutes, the food residues will soften, making them easier to remove.
One home remedy to remove burnt residues from pots and pans is using coffee grounds. This natural and gentle abrasive works well for this purpose. Simply mix the grounds with a small amount of dish soap to create a paste that helps remove dried-on grime. The small coffee particles act like brushes, eliminating grease and food remnants.
It's also worth mentioning baking soda, which has a broad range of applications in the kitchen as an effective cleaning agent. It's no surprise that it works well for stubborn pot and pan stains too. Just sprinkle it on the bottom of the pot or other cookware, add a bit of water, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a sponge or brush to rinse off the residues. Remember to use soft sponges and brushes to avoid scratching the surfaces of your cookware.
