Stainless steel pans are used extensively in the Indian kitchens as they are durable, rust resistant, corrosion proof, compatible with most cooktops, heat up faster, convenient to use, evenly distribute heat, and support healthy cooking. Their USP is that they can actually last for a long time. But for maintaining them, it is imperative that you clean them properly every time they are used for cooking. With every pro, comes a con as well! Even the stainless steel pans are no exception. If the pan is not seasoned properly or food is cooked at a high flame, then the pan can certainly get burnt, leaving stains and discoloration.
In this article, we will deliberate on how to clean stainless steel pans effectively by way of step-by step directions, so that they retain their shine and looks. We will also share the materials required for cleaning and how to care for your pans to postpone their aging and disorientation by many years. We are certain that you will find the details advantageous and will be certainly benefitted with the guidance. Without further ado, let's begin the information and all that you need to know on how to clean stainless steel pans.
Materials Needed for Cleaning
Maintaining the stainless steel pans is not a tough task but it just requires a few essential materials. Let's check them out:
- Dishwashing liquid
- Warm water
- Cleaning sponge
- Baking soda(if required)
- White vinegar(if required)
The last two items are optional and are to be used in discreet situations. They will be discussed when we share on how to clean burnt stainless steel pans in the directions below.
Directions for Cleaning
These are the directions in a step-by-step methodology that will assist you practically on how to clean stainless steel pans thoroughly and make them shine:
- Handwashing: Though these pans can be washed in a dishwasher but for a spic and span finish, handwashing is recommended.
- Cool down: First of all, the pan should be allowed to cool down after the cooking is complete and before it is to be put into water for washing.
- Dishwashing liquid: After the pan has cooled down, pour warm water and appropriate quantity of dishwashing liquid over it.
- Sponge cleaning: Now, move the soapy cleaning sponge all over the pan and clean it thoroughly by working over the food particles, stains, and spots.
- Burnt pan and baking soda: In case, the food got stuck at the bottom and the pan got burnt, then sprinkle some amount of baking soda onto the burnt area. Pour some water into the pan and bring it to a boil. As the water starts to evaporate, switch off the gas. Clean again using the soapy sponge, the burnt pan will start to come out neat and clean. This is the most appropriate method on how to clean burnt stainless steel pans.
- Stains and discoloration: In case, after washing some stains or discoloration is visible, then pour some white vinegar onto the area and clean it with the sponge. This should remove the remaining stains and discoloration
- Rinse thoroughly: It's time to thoroughly rinse the pans properly with preferably running water to wash off all the food particles, baking soda and vinegar. Check for any smell, rinse again to remove the smell completely.
- Air drying: Leave the pans to air dry after washing. Now, they will come out shining bright and clean.
- Avoid water spots: After air drying, if you notice water spots, then make sure to wipe the stainless steel pans with a cloth right after some time of air drying only to prevent the formation of these water spots at the end.
So, just relax! With the help of these super easy steps, the pans will be thoroughly sanitized with pristine finish.
Guide to Care for Stainless Steel Pans
Make sure to consider these points for caring for your stainless steel pans:
- Pour oil in a preheated pan and allow the oil to be hot before putting in the ingredients for cooking.
- Never use abrasive cleaning tools as they can hamper the pans by scratching the surface.
- Do not use harsh cleaning or bleaching agents.
- Do not put a pan in a dishwasher if it is not dishwasher safe.
- Ensure not to soak hot pans in the water for washing untill they have cooled down.
- Let the frozen or cold items to come at the room temperature before adding them into the pan for cooking.
- Pitting corrosion can be avoided by adding salt to water when it has started to boil whenever boiling pasta and similar items.
These points must be remembered to prevent early wear and tear of the stainless steel pans.
Final Words
Stainless steel pans are a healthy cookware, safe, long lasting, and multipurpose. Which is why they have paved their way into every household kitchen and restaurant. Even seasoned chefs prefer to prepare their gourmet meals using stainless steel pans. And maintaining them is so much easier in comparison to other variety of cookware. We are sure that you will follow these simple yet highly effective tips on how to clean stainless steel pans so that your pans keep looking brand new and last for generations.
