To clean a burnt stainless steel pan, here are some of the best effective methods: The Deglazing Method:
- Remove loose burnt food.
- Heat the pan and add water or a mix of water and white vinegar to boil.
- Use a wooden spatula to scrape off burnt bits while simmering.
- Discard the liquid.
- Sprinkle baking soda on the pan when cool, then scrub with a wet scouring pad.
- Wash and dry normally afterward.
Baking Soda & Vinegar Method:
- Remove food debris.
- Add enough white vinegar to cover the pan bottom.
- Boil and simmer vinegar.
- Remove from heat and add baking soda to cause fizzing.
- Let it sit until fizzing stops.
- Scrub with a nylon brush or sponge, rinse, and dry.
Baking Soda & Lemon Method:
- Keep a thin water layer in the pan.
- Sprinkle baking soda liberally.
- Scrub with a lemon half, using the acidity and alkalinity to help lift stains.
- Rinse and dry.
Aluminum Foil Scrub:
- Make a paste with baking soda and water.
- Use crumpled aluminum foil as a scrubber to gently remove burnt residue.
- Rinse and wash with soap and water.
Additional tips include removing burnt food while the pan is still warm using non-metal utensils and soaking in warm, soapy water if grime persists. These methods utilize mild abrasion from baking soda and the chemical action of vinegar or lemon juice to safely and effectively clean burnt stainless steel pans without damaging them.
