How To Clean Stainless Steel Pans

How To Clean Stainless Steel Pans

Posted On: August 2nd, 2024

When it comes to selecting cookware for your kitchen, stainless steel pans stand out as a top choice for both professional chefs and home cooks alike. Not only are they incredibly durable and resistant to rust and stains, but they also provide an excellent cooking surface that ensures even heat distribution. One of the major benefits of using stainless steel pans is their non-toxic nature. Unlike some non-stick coatings that can release harmful chemicals when heated, stainless steel is free from such risks, making it a safer option for preparing your meals. Furthermore, these pans do not react with acidic foods, ensuring the true flavor of your ingredients shines through. They do require a little bit of maintenance to keep them in top condition, and that is what I will be sharing today in this blog.

What You’ll Need: 

 

Cleaning Your Stainless Steel

When faced with the task of cleaning stainless steel pots and pans, the initial impulse is often to rush in and rinse off the stubborn food residue. However, through my own trial and error, I've learned a valuable lesson: this hasty approach can harm and distort your precious stainless cookware. So, take it from my experience—avoid my missteps and allow your cookware to cool down to room temperature before diving into the cleaning process. Your cherished kitchen essentials will thank you for the gentle treatment!

Step 1: Start by rinsing off any leftover food residue using warm water.

Step 2: Spray with Truly Free Heavy Duty Pot & Pan Spray and allow the pan to soak for about 5 minutes for a thorough cleaning.

Step 3: Squeeze a generous amount of Truly Free Dish Soap and wash the pan with warm water using a non-abrasive cloth.

Step 4: To prevent spotting, promptly dry the pan with a clean cloth after washing.

Preserving Your Pots and Pans from Burn Marks

It's perfectly normal for your stainless steel pots and pans to show signs of wear and tear from frequent use, including the occasional burnt-on food residue when you walked away to help the kiddos or start another load of laundry really quick. So, don't worry—these are all part of the kitchen adventures and it is fixable!

Step 1: Generously sprinkle baking soda over the surface of your pan or pot.

Step 2: Next, Fill the pan or pot with enough water to submerge the stuck-on food.

Step 3: Bring the water to a boil.

Step 4: Remove the dirty water from the pan or pot.

Step 5: Wash the pan with a generous amount of Dish Soap.

Step 6: Dry immediately after with a soft cloth to avoid spotting.

Step 7: Enjoy your like new stainless steel pots and pans.

Banishing Stains from Stainless Steel Cookware

Discoloration is a common occurrence in stainless steel pots and pans, often resulting from high heat during cooking sessions. Don't fret when you notice these discolorations; they are fixable without the need to discard them.

Step 1: Begin by pouring vinegar into your pan.

Step 2: Gently wipe the pan using a non-abrasive cloth.

Step 3: Rinse the pan thoroughly.

Step 4: Finally, ensure to dry the pan completely with a soft cloth.

Step 5: Enjoy your stainless steel pots and pans looking as good as new.

A Quick Guide On Cleaning Stainless Steel Pots & Pans

Tips for Maintaining Your Stainless Steel Cookware

  • Avoid using abrasive cleaners on your stainless steel pots and pans.
  • Hand wash your cookware instead of using a dishwasher.
  • Dry your pots and pans immediately after washing to prevent water spots with a soft cloth.
  • Use non-abrasive sponges or cloths for cleaning to preserve the finish.
  • Keep your stainless steel cookware shiny by regularly polishing it with a baking soda paste.
  • Store your pots and pans properly to prevent scratches and dents. I love these pot and pan protectors.
  • Avoid cooking on excessively high heat to prevent discoloration.



As a busy mom juggling a million things at once, taking care of my stainless steel pots and pans can sometimes feel like a challenge. But with these handy tips in my kitchen arsenal, I've found a way to keep my cookware looking spick and span despite the chaos of daily cooking adventures. By opting for gentler cleaning methods, drying them promptly with a soft cloth, and even squeezing in some time to give them a little polish now and then, I've managed to maintain their shine and durability, a little TLC for your pots and pans goes a long way in ensuring they stay in tip-top shape to whip up those family-favorite meals with love and style!