Home remedies for pristine pots: Cleaning burnt pans reimagined

Sometimes, during frying, the pan gets burnt. If we don't clean the pan immediately, removing dried grease and food residues can be really difficult. It’s worth noting that aesthetics aren't the only important aspect here – regular and thorough cleaning of the pan extends its lifespan and prevents harmful substances from being transferred to the dishes you're preparing.

One tried and tested home method for a burnt pan is a paste made of bicarbonate of soda. Bicarbonate of soda is a well-known cleaning agent that works on both dirt and unpleasant odours. To prepare the paste, you need six teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda and 60 millilitres of hydrogen peroxide. Mix the ingredients until you achieve a paste consistency, then apply it to the burns inside the pan. After about ten minutes, rinse off the paste by gently washing the pan with washing-up liquid and water. The soda combined with hydrogen peroxide effectively dissolves tough stains, revealing the fresh surface of the pan.

Another simple and inexpensive method is to use citric acid. This commonly available agent effectively deals with burns and deposits. How to use it? 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. Leave it for a few hours to allow the citric acid to work on the burns. After that, wipe the dirty surface with a clean cloth, wash with washing-up liquid, and dry. This method is not only effective but also safe for various pan surfaces, including delicate ones like Teflon or ceramic.

An additional solution is to use cola and dishwasher rinse aid. While it may sound unusual, it is a method gaining popularity among internet users. To try it, prepare a mixture of three tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda, three tablespoons of washing-up liquid, three tablespoons of dishwasher rinse aid, and 500 millilitres 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 worth avoiding some common mistakes that can lead to damage to the utensil. One of them is pouring cold water onto a hot pan. While it may seem like a natural reflex, it's very dangerous for the pan – sudden temperature changes can cause cracks and permanently damage the coating. Another mistake is using inappropriate cleaning agents, such as harsh sponges or aggressive detergents, which can scratch and destroy the pan’s surface, especially those with Teflon coatings.

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, it is recommended to use a soft sponge and a bit of washing-up liquid. It's also important to avoid using excessive amounts of fat during cooking and to regularly remove food residues to prevent the permanent burning of the surface.