Pots and pans come in many types, shapes, and materials. Depending on those, you will need to take different approaches when cleaning them. The wrong cleaning method or product may cause damage to the different surfaces of your cookware. When it comes to ceramic pots and pans, it is important to know how to efficiently clean them. They may stain, especially when food burns on them at high temperatures.
Lucky for you, all you need is a few simple household items to properly clean your ceramics. Keep reading to find out the few simple steps that will help you maintain your ceramic cookware looking like new.
When brand new, ceramic pans should be washed by hand in warm, soapy water, rinsed well, and dried with a soft cloth. This will remove any dust or residue that got there during the manufacturing process. Ceramic cookware should be washed after every use in order to remove food particles. Examine your pots and pans regularly and look out for any discoloration. If such is found, your cookware should be deep cleaned.
Allow the ceramic pot/pan to cool – Always work with ceramic cookware that is already cool. Ceramic coating is fragile when exposed to drastic temperature changes so always allow the item to cool down before attempting to wash it.
Fill a sink with water and dish soap – Fill a large bucket or a sink with warm water and add a few squirts of dish soap. Ideally, you will use a dishwashing liquid that has degreasing properties.
Use a sponge – Submerge the pan in the soapy solution and use a non-abrasive sponge in order to clean the surface. You can also use a dishcloth, just make sure it has a non-abrasive texture. Steel wool or abrasive nylon scrubbers can damage the ceramic surface and cause miniature scratches that will reduce the non-stick properties of the pan.
Rinse and dry – Rinse the ceramic item under warm water. Dry with a soft dish towel or allow the cookware to air dry.
How to remove stuck-on food and stubborn stains by using baking soda?
If food is burned and is stuck to the ceramic coating of the cookware, allow the item to soak in warm soapy water for at least 30 minutes. Then dip a damp sponge in some dry baking soda and gently scrub away any burned-on food remains.
If the food residue does not come off completely, sprinkle the bottom of the pan/pot with baking soda and add a bit of hot water. Allow this mixture to sit for about 30 minutes, then use a damp sponge to wipe away the excess solution. Repeat if needed. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
How to remove discoloration from ceramic cookware by using hydrogen peroxide?
If you have had your ceramic pot or pan for a while, with time and possibly some burned-on food, its coating may become discolored. To get rid of that, pour enough 3% hydrogen peroxide to cover the bottom of the pan. If the solution is fresh and working, it should bubble. Let it sit for 30 minutes, rinse and dry. That step will brighten the finish of your ceramic pot or pan and remove any discoloration.
Additional tips on how to maintain your ceramic cookware in prime condition:
Always hand-wash all your ceramic items. Dishwashing detergent can contain harsh chemicals, bleach, or citric acid that may damage the delicate finish of your cookware.
Always use plastic, wood, silicone, or nylon utensils when cooking in ceramic pots or pans. Using metal will cause damage to the surface of it and create small scratches that will gather food residue and grease and will ruin the nonstick properties of your cookware.
Never cook foods with knives in ceramic cookware. This may scratch the surface or cause gouges.
When using grease, choose a bit of oil or butter. Avoid using harsh cooking sprays, since they are harder to remove and will create a greasy buildup that will make your pans dirty, discolored, or sticky. This will help you avoid scrubbing hard-to-remove residue from the ceramic surface.
Do not use excessively high temperatures when cooking. You will prevent foods from burning on and causing discoloration or hard-to-remove stains and residue.
Do not stack ceramic cookware on top of each other. Always use padding in order to prevent damage or scratches between the pieces.
Keep in mind that ceramic cookware like pots or pans is delicate and requires special attention. Regularly clean them and make sure you avoid any kind of damage to their fragile ceramic coating. If you remove all stains and burned-on foods on time, you will avoid buildup and will be able to keep your cookware clean and efficient. Its non-stick properties will not be compromised and you will be able to enjoy it for much longer.