How to save your Teflon pan from common cleaning mistakes
Out of habit, we often treat many stains on the pan with brushes, soak it immediately after frying, and place it in the dishwasher. Unfortunately, this is certain to damage the equipment. If you don't want to lose your Teflon pan and money, learn how to clean it properly.
Do you have a pan with a non-stick coating and wonder how to wash it without damaging the delicate surface? Here’s a method that will prevent damage to your equipment and effectively deal with dirt and dried grease.
How not to handle Teflon pans?
Forget about washing these pans in the dishwasher! It may seem convenient, but it will damage the surface and cause food to stick. Always check the manufacturer's washing recommendations. Although there are models resistant to mechanical washing, these are rare exceptions. Avoid using abrasive sponges, steel wool pads, and strong detergents that can damage Teflon. The pan loses its properties without this coating, forcing you to use more fat. Besides, never pour cold water on a hot pan just after removing the cutlets. Below is a suggestion on how to wash Teflon pans properly.
How to properly wash a non-stick pan?
After cooking, set the pan aside to cool. Washing it while hot can lead to damage and deformation. Once it’s cooled down, use a soft sponge and washing-up liquid. Gently rubbing its surface will easily remove grease. Then, thoroughly rinse it and place it on a drying rack to dry. It is important to store pans individually, without other dishes on top. This minimises the risk of scratches. A good solution is to hang them on hooks or arrange them in cupboards with special felt dividers to prevent unnecessary damage.