Never Use These Products On Your Pots And Pans
Keeping your cookware clean is important, but using the wrong cleaning products can do more harm than good. Some cleaners that seem tough on grime can actually strip finishes, scratch surfaces, or ruin nonstick coatings.
Whether you use cast iron, stainless steel, or aluminum, protecting your pans means knowing what not to use. Here are four products to avoid using on your cookware.
Steel Wool
Steel wool is very abrasive and can quickly scratch nonstick coatings or remove seasoning from cast iron. Even stainless steel pans can lose their shine if scrubbed too hard.
As an alternative, use a nylon scrubber or soft sponge for regular cleaning. For tough residue, soak your pan first or simmer water and baking soda to loosen food debris.
Oven Cleaner
Oven cleaner might seem like a shortcut for baked-on grease, but it's too harsh for most cookware. Its strong chemicals can damage coatings, discolor metal, and leave behind toxic residues.
It’s especially harmful on nonstick, copper, or anodized pans. Instead, stick with gentle cleaning methods or dedicated cookware cleaners made for the specific material you’re using.
Bleach
Bleach is excellent for disinfecting but terrible for pots and pans. It can corrode metal, discolor stainless steel, and weaken nonstick finishes.
Bleach fumes are also unsafe around cooking surfaces. If you need to sanitize, wash your cookware with hot soapy water or vinegar instead.
Baking Soda Paste on Nonstick Pans
Baking soda is a great cleaner for many types of surfaces, but it's too abrasive for nonstick coatings. Using it as a scrub can wear away the surface, leading to sticking and uneven cooking.
For nonstick pans, use warm water, mild soap, and a soft sponge. Baking soda is better saved for stainless steel or ceramic cookware.
Patience is Key
It's easy to think stronger cleaners mean better results, but when it comes to cookware, gentler is smarter. Avoid harsh chemicals, steel wool, and abrasives that can ruin your pots and pans.
A little patience, warm water, and the right tools will keep your cookware in great condition for years.