What NOT to do
Don’t automatically reach for steel wool or harsh abrasive cleaners.
They can damage certain surfaces, especially nonstick coatings and delicate finishes.
Also avoid combining household cleaning chemicals. Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or other cleaners.
If you’re unsure whether a product is safe for your cookware, check the manufacturer’s instructions.
There’s a simple trick for next time
The easiest burnt-pan problem is the one you prevent.
When cooking foods that are prone to sticking or burning, keep an eye on the heat and stir when appropriate.
And if something does burn, don’t leave the pan sitting for hours with the residue drying and hardening.
Let it cool safely, soak it sooner, and clean it before the burnt layer becomes even harder.
Before throwing away that ugly pan…
Give it one more chance.
A burnt pan often looks much worse than it actually is. With heat, soaking, patience, and the right cleaning method, a surprising amount of stuck-on food can be removed without spending an hour aggressively scrubbing it.
