How To Clean Stainless Steel Pans: Dos & Don’ts

Stainless steel pans, known for their durability, sleek design, and versatility, are a top choice for those who want a pan that does it all. Yet, even the best stainless steel cookware can face the challenge of stuck-on food or water spots.

But no need to worry; keeping your stainless steel pans sparkling and functional is easier than you might think.

In this article, we'll walk you through the simple yet effective ways to clean your stainless steel cookware, sharing the most important dos and dont's.

What Is Stainless Steel Cookware?

Let’s start with the basics. Unlike cast iron or some nonstick counterparts (PTFE or Teflon™-coated), stainless steel is less likely to warp and overheat. This resilience makes it a reliable choice for a range of cooking techniques — from simmering delicate sauces to searing meats at high heat.

Basic Cleaning: Routine Maintenance

Maintaining the impeccable look of your stainless steel cookware starts with daily care provided by a simple yet effective routine.

Here is a quick rundown of the dos and don’ts that YOU should know when establishing your routine.

DO: Let your pan cool first

When a hot pan is subjected to cold water, it can experience thermal shock, potentially leading to warping or cracking. By letting it naturally cool down first, you're preserving your pan’s shape and functionality for the long term.

DON’T: Cause extreme temperature changes for your pan

Thermal shock usually happens when cooking is finished, but extreme temperature shifts can also happen beforehand. Ensure you’re not moving your pans from a cold environment to a hot stove, either.

DO: Fill your pan with warm water and a squirt of gentle dish soap

Warm water is more effective than cold water for cleaning stainless steel. It helps break down oils and grease, making removing food particles and stains easier.

Add in some mild dish soap to create a gentle, sudsy solution that can help remove everything that’s not supposed to be there without harming the surface.

DON’T: Use strong cleaners

Strong cleaners, while effective at removing dirt, can be too abrasive for stainless steel, causing scratches and dulling the surface over time. Opt for milder stainless steel cleaners designed to clean without causing harm to your pan's surface.

DO: Take a soft sponge and gently wipe the interior and exterior of the pan

Using a soft sponge is a gentle yet effective way to clean your pan. It lifts off food residues and stains without scratching the surface, thus preserving the pan's aesthetic and functional qualities.

DON’T: Use steel wool or harsh scrubbers

Steel wool, scouring pads, and other harsh scrubbers can leave scratches on your stainless steel pan, leading to a dull and worn-out appearance over time. To maintain the pan’s lustrous finish, it’s best to use non-abrasive cleaning tools for regular, everyday cleanings.

DO: Dry with a soft dishcloth

Drying your stainless steel pan with a soft cloth or paper towel can help prevent water spots that can dull the pan's shine if left to dry naturally. This simple yet effective step helps to maintain the pan's appealing shine and readiness for the next use.

DON’T: Use the dishwasher

While some stainless steel pans are dishwasher-safe, hand washing is the best method to ensure longevity. Dishwashers can be harsh on stainless steel, and hand washing allows you to give the pan the gentle care it deserves.

DO: Store your pan in a pan organizer

Storing your pan in a pan organizer helps protect it from scratches or damage caused by other cookware. Besides preserving the pan's condition, it also contributes to keeping your kitchen organized, making it easier to locate the right pan when you need it.

What About Tough Stains and Burnt-On Food?

Sometimes, cooking adventures can leave behind more than just memories — they leave tough stains and burnt-on food. Here's where a little elbow grease and the right cleaning agents come into play.

Baking Soda

For those challenging spots, create a paste with baking soda and a bit of warm water. Apply this paste directly to the stain, and let it work its gentle yet effective cleaning magic. Baking soda, a natural cleanser, is your ally in restoring the pan's original luster without any harsh chemicals.

White Vinegar

White vinegar, another kitchen staple, comes to the rescue for discoloration and buildup. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and bring it to a simmer in the pan.

This solution is particularly adept at tackling the unsightly effects of calcium deposits and other residues. After a few minutes, discard the vinegar solution, and you'll notice a significant difference.

Hot Water

For those instances where food seems to have permanently made its home on your pan, boiling water is your savior. Fill the pan with enough water to cover the burnt areas, bring it to a boil, and then let it simmer.

After a few minutes, turn off the heat. Use a wooden spoon or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub away the now-loosened food particles gently. Remember that when you’re done scrubbing, the pan will be hot and will need to naturally cool down before you can continue properly cleaning it.

With these techniques, your stainless steel cookware will be clean and maintain its integrity for the many meals to come.

Advanced Cleaning: Elevating Your Stainless Steel Care

Moving beyond the basics, let's explore some advanced techniques to keep your stainless steel pans clean and in a state that reflects your culinary dedication and passion. These methods are for those moments when your pans require a bit more attention to revive their original sparkle and functionality.

Steam Cleaning for Stubborn Residue

Steam cleaning comes in handy when the regular cleaning routine isn’t enough for hardened gunk. Simply heat a little water in the pan, just enough to create steam. The steam will help loosen the food particles, making them easier to wipe away with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.

Using the Right Cleaning Agents

When dealing with tougher stains that require more than just soap and water, turn to non-abrasive cleaners. For example, Bar Keepers Friend, Bon Ami, and Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish are highly popular and trusted options.

These cleaners are specially formulated to tackle difficult stains without scratching the surface of your pans. Apply a small amount, gently scrub, and then rinse thoroughly.

Polishing Techniques

Occasional polishing is a great idea to keep your stainless steel pans looking brand new. Use a polish specifically designed for stainless steel and apply it with a soft, clean cloth. This enhances the appearance and provides a protective layer against future stains.

Expert Tips for Mastering Stainless Steel Pan Care

After covering the essentials of basic and advanced cleaning, let’s turn our focus to some expert care tips that will elevate the longevity and performance of your stainless steel pans. These insights will ensure your Caraway Cookware continues to shine in your kitchen.

Embrace Gentle Abrasives

When it comes to tackling those occasional stubborn residues that just won’t go away, an extremely delicate touch with fine steel wool can make all the difference. It’s crucial, however, to use it sparingly and softly

You should only turn to fine steel wool after you’ve already tried using a sponge, nylon scrubbers, or a microfiber cloth first. This approach allows you to address tough spots without compromising the integrity of the pans.

Protect Your Pans on the Stovetop

Using your pans correctly is just as important as cleaning them correctly. Make the flame as large as the base of your pan to keep things even. Our Caraway’s Stainless Steel Cookware line loves this kind of attention — it keeps them cooking evenly and looking fabulous.

Caution Against Harsh Chemicals

Sure, bleach cleans well, but its harshness can be more of a bane than a boon for stainless steel pans. If absolutely necessary, use it in a heavily diluted form and ensure a thorough rinse afterward.

However, the above cleaning solutions should be enough to clean your equipment, and bleach should be the absolute last resort.

Incorporating these expert cleaning strategies into your routine isn’t just maintenance but enhancing the life and look of your pans. Treat your stainless steel pans with these tips, and they’ll reward you with years of stellar service and impeccable style.

A Final Word on Stainless Steel Cleaning

At Caraway, we take pride in offering cookware that blends style with functionality, and we believe in equipping you with the know-how to keep your cookware looking and performing its best.

Remember, caring for your stainless steel pans is a way to extend their life and your enjoyment in the kitchen. Keep these tips in mind, and your stainless steel cookware will continue to be a shining star in your kitchen.

Sources:

The Basics about Stainless Steel | British Stainless Steel Association Baking Soda Provides Variety of Cleaning Solutions | AARP Vinegar | The Nutrition Source | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Cleaning and Disinfecting With Bleach | CDC Thermal Shock (Thermal Stress) | Engineering Library