Stainless steel pans are nearly indestructible, but they can look burnt, stained or cloudy fast. The good news: almost every mess comes off with water, baking soda, vinegar and a little patience. Here is how to clean stainless steel pans for every kind of mess.
The Short Answer
Let the pan cool slightly, then wash with hot soapy water and a non-scratch scrubber. For burnt food, simmer water and baking soda in the pan for 10 minutes, then scrape. Remove rainbow stains and white spots with a splash of white vinegar. Dry right away to prevent water spots.
Daily Cleaning
- Let the pan cool a few minutes; plunging a hot pan into cold water can warp it.
- Wash with hot soapy water and a silicone dishwashing brush.
- Rinse and dry immediately with a waffle weave towel.
How to Clean a Burnt Stainless Steel Pan
Step 1: Deglaze
Add enough water to cover the burnt area and bring it to a simmer.
Step 2: Add baking soda
Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda and simmer 10 minutes.
Step 3: Scrape
Scrape with a wooden spatula; most of the burnt food will lift.
Step 4: Scrub the rest
Make a paste of baking soda and water, scrub with a stainless steel scrubbing brush or non-scratch pad, rinse and dry.
Rainbow Stains and White Spots
Rainbow heat tint and chalky white spots are harmless. Pour in a little white vinegar, swirl, wipe with a soft cloth, then wash and dry. For stubborn discoloration, a stainless steel cleanser such as Bar Keepers Friend works well.
How to Keep Food from Sticking
- Preheat the pan for 2 minutes before adding oil.
- Add oil, then food once the oil shimmers.
- Let proteins release naturally before flipping.
Pans We Love
The stainless steel honeycomb frying pan combines steel durability with an easier-release surface.
Equipment I Used
- Large airtight food storage container: for leftovers and freezer portions.
New to slow cooking? The Easy Slow Cooker Recipes guide is a beginner-friendly collection of easy crockpot breakfasts and dinners.
Clean Stainless Steel Pans FAQ
Can you use baking soda on stainless steel pans?
Yes. Baking soda is mildly abrasive and safe for stainless steel; it is great for burnt food.
How do you remove rainbow stains from stainless steel?
Wipe with white vinegar, then wash and dry.
Can stainless steel pans go in the dishwasher?
Most can, but hand washing keeps them shinier and prevents spots.
Why does food stick to stainless steel?
Usually the pan was not preheated or the food was flipped too soon.
