Contents
How to Wash Pots and Pans
How to Wash Aluminum Pots and Pans
How to Wash and Season Cast Iron Pans
How to Wash Copper Pots and Pans
How to Wash Enamel Pots and Pans
How to Clean Nonstick Pans
How to Wash Stainless Steel Pots and Pans
How to Clean Baked-On Food From Pots and Pans
How to Clean a Burned Pot or Pan
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How to Wash Aluminum Pots and Pans
You can wash aluminum pots and pans in hot, sudsy water, just as you would your other dishes. Some aluminum may even be dishwasher safe, but never assume that aluminum is dishwasher safe unless it’s explicitly marked as such.
Even if you wash them thoroughly, you’ll likely notice over time that your aluminum pots and pans develop deep gray or black stains—these stains show up when aluminum comes in contact with hard water or alkaline foods. To clean these stains:
- Scrub the stain with a nylon scouring pad or scrub brush if necessary. Try to scrub along the grain of the metal to avoid scratching it. If scrubbing doesn’t do the trick, don’t try to use a more abrasive pad or scouring powder, as that may scratch the surface. Instead, try step 2.
- Fill the pot or pan with a mixture of 1 quart of water to 1 tablespoon cream of tartar (an acid salt used in cooking and sold in most supermarkets). Bring the solution to a boil and let simmer for five minutes. Pour out the solution, and scrub and polish the pan with a nylon scouring pad.
How to Clean Anodized Aluminum
Anodized aluminum is aluminum that has been made stronger through a chemical process. Though physically stronger, anodized aluminum is more sensitive to temperature and is not dishwasher safe. Always wash it with a nylon scouring pad and hot, soapy water—do not use abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the surface of the cookware.
How to Clean an Aluminum Tea Kettle or Coffee Pot
Many tea kettles and coffee pots are made of aluminum, and over time, mineral deposits can build up on the inside surfaces. To remove these deposits:
- Fill the kettle with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for at least 10 minutes. The heavier the deposits, the longer you should let the mixture boil.
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