How to Clean Stainless Steel Pans the Right Way

Durable and excellent at conducting heat, stainless steel pans are a kitchen essential. This type of cookware is also extremely versatile and can do everything from sear to sauté. The only downside? Over time, stainless steel pans can build up with burnt-on food and discoloration from frequent use. But with some guidance from experts and the right cleaning supplies, you'll be well on your way to returning your stainless steel pans to their former glory.

Materials Needed

Make sure you have these basic cleaning supplies on hand before getting started.

• Non-abrasive sponge
• Dish soap
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Microfiber towel

How to Clean a Stainless Steel Pan

Always let your stainless steel pan cool down before running it under cold water, as the temperature shock can cause permanent warping, says Wendy Dyer, international product director at All-Clad. Once the pan is fully cooled, you can begin cleaning it.

1. Rinse off excess food with warm water.
2. Soak the pan in warm, soapy water for a few minutes.
3. Scrub the pan with a non-abrasive sponge and warm, soapy water.
4. Wipe dry immediately with a microfiber cloth.

How to Remove Burnt Food From Stainless Steel Pans

If you still have bits of burnt food stuck on your stainless steel pan, try this technique, which Dyer says will help loosen food particles from the surface.

1. Sprinkle the surface of your pan generously with baking soda.
2. Fill the pan with enough water to cover the stuck-on food.
3. Bring it to a boil.
4. Pour out the dirty water.
5. Clean with warm, soapy water.
6. Wipe dry with a microfiber towel.

How to Remove Discoloration From Stainless Steel Pans

Stainless steel pans can often acquire some discoloration, which is often caused by overheating. While these stains won't come out with regular dish soap, a little vinegar will do the trick.

1. Pour some vinegar into your pan and let it sit for a few minutes.
2. Scrub the pan with a non-abrasive sponge.
3. Rinse with cold water.
4. Wipe dry with a microfiber towel.

How to Prevent Scorch Marks on Stainless Steel Pans

There are two easy ways to prevent a pan from scorching. First, always ensure there is enough fat or liquid in the pan and that the pan is hot before adding any liquid. "Heat up your stainless-steel pan on low to medium heat for two to three minutes before adding oil, fat, or food—this will help prevent or reduce burns," says Leanne Stapf, COO of The Cleaning Authority.

The other way to prevent scorch marks in a stainless steel pan is to move the food around frequently with a spoon or tongs. This way, the food won't have a chance to sit at the bottom of the pan and will ultimately cook more evenly.

How to Store Stainless Steel Cookware

Keep your stainless steel pans safe from scratches by storing them properly. "I love to keep my stainless-steel pans in an easy-to-reach cabinet," says Stapf. "A tip when stacking these stainless-steel cooking items: add cookware protectors between each to avoid scratching their surfaces."