TIPical Mary Ellen host Mary Ellen Pinkham explains how to restore worn pots and pans.
- Dishwashing detergent is not the only cleanser you can use on your pots and pans. In fact, there are a few items that you probably already have in your kitchen that can also be of great use. Examples are white vinegar, baking soda, cream of tartar, lemon and salt.
- When cleaning your enamel pots and pans, use baking soda to help break down cooked-on food. Just boil a mixture of water and baking soda in the dirty pan. Baking soda will also remove stains from nonstick pans.
- Enamel-coated pots and pans will never cause contamination because they are essentially glass.
- Always try to avoid scouring when cleaning pots and pans, as it can cause permanent scratches and scarring.
- Use oven cleaner on the outside of pots and pans.
- Never scrub nonstick pans to remove caked-on food. This will cause scratches and possible peeling. To clean, boil 1/8 cup dishwashing detergent in a small amount of water--enough to cover your stain. Nonstick pans are great for people concerned with reducing fat in their foods, because extra oil to prevent food from sticking does not need to be added.
- Use a sponge and hot water to clean cast-iron pans. Kosher salt and a damp paper towel will also work.
- Be sure to thoroughly dry cast-iron pans, then brush with vegetable oil and wipe away with a paper towel. This will preserve the seasoning. Never use soap to clean cast-iron items. Soap will strip away all the pan's seasoning. Cast-iron cooks foods slowly and evenly.
- Use only plastic or wood-cooking utensils to keep scratches on your cookware to a minimum.
