It happens to the best of us: you have a non-stick pan on the stove, but you forget to take it off the heat, and now you’re left with a scorched, burnt mess. Don’t give up just yet—try this simple, eco-friendly trick before you think about replacing it!
The dishwasher tablet method
Got dishwasher tablets on hand? Great, because they can work wonders on tough, burnt-on residue. Here’s what to do:
- Fill the pan with water and add a dishwasher tablet.
- Let it gently simmer over low heat—no need to fully boil, just keep it at a low simmer.
- After a few hours, check with a plastic spatula to see if the burnt bits are lifting. With a bit of luck, most of the mess will come right off.
Still seeing stubborn spots? No worries, just repeat the process until everything loosens up. This gentle method often does the trick without scrubbing!
Important: protect your sink
Before you pour the dirty water down the drain, filter out any large bits. This step is crucial—otherwise, you might end up with a clogged sink!
For stainless steel pans
For burnt stainless steel pans, try a different approach. Use very fine steel wool to carefully scrub away the stuck-on residue without damaging the surface.
Tips for choosing the right pan
If it’s time to buy a new pan, don’t just go by price. Great non-stick pans come in various materials like Teflon, ceramic, and titanium. Look for one with a smooth interior, a comfortable handle, and a thicker, layered bottom for even heating. Remember, expensive doesn’t always mean better!
Practical tip: Have you tried the dishwasher tablet trick yet? With this easy fix, you can often give your pan a second life and avoid unnecessary waste!