HOW TO CLEAN POTS AND PANS: AN EASY GUIDE

Choosing the Right Cleaning Method for Different Cookware Types

Different cookware types require different cleaning methods. Understanding the appropriate cleaning techniques for each pot and pan is a crucial part of maintaining your cookware’s longevity.

When deciding how to clean pots and pans, consider what they’re made of. While some cookware is dishwasher safe, it varies by material. Non-stick pans may require hand washing to protect their coating, and cast iron should never be cleaned in the dishwasher, as it can rust. Always refer to the care instructions provided by the cookware’s manufacturer so you can help avoid potential damage while cleaning your pots and pans.

If your pan is dishwasher safe, go ahead and clean it that way. Get familiar with dishwasher cycles and settings to find the best one for your cookware. Maytag brand offers many features to help you clean those pesky pots and pans. Select Maytag^® dishwashers feature Dual Power Filtration, which lets you skip soaking, scrubbing and pre-rinsing with filtration designed to deliver clean dishes the first time. Other models, such as this Maytag^® dishwasher, offer an Increased Upper Rack Height feature, which gives your pots and pans plenty of room to get clean.

GUIDE TO CLEANING POTS AND PANS

When it comes to pots and pans, different materials require different cleaning methods. Whether you have stainless steel, non-stick, cast iron, or copper pans, each type needs special care to help prevent damage. Always check your product’s user manual first. Almost everyone has wondered—at one time or another—can you put pots and pans in the dishwasher? Here’s a guide to help you figure it out.

HOW TO CLEAN STAINLESS STEEL POTS & PANS

Stainless steel pots and pans are durable and sleek but can become stained or burnt over time, requiring special care. Here’s how to clean stainless steel cookware, including how to clean a stainless steel saucepan.

Stainless steel pots and pans are generally safe to wash in the dishwasher, however, make sure your item is labeled as such beforehand. If not, handwash using the following methods:

Allow your stainless steel cookware to cool before washing to avoid warping. Start by rinsing the pan with warm water to remove any loose food debris. Apply a small amount of dish soap to a sponge or soft cloth and gently scrub the surface. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the stainless steel.

If you need to remove burnt stains from stainless steel, there are a few additional steps to take. Try cleaning burned residue on stainless steel pans with vinegar and baking soda. First, fill the stainless steel pot or pan with equal parts water and vinegar, then bring the mixture to a boil. Remove it from the heat and add a few tablespoons of baking soda. Allow it to sit until cool, then scrub away the burnt residue with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.

Alternatively, create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the burnt areas on your pans and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub gently with a sponge or cloth until the burnt residue is removed. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft towel.

While products like affresh^® stainless steel brightener¹ work wonders on appliances, never use them to clean stainless steel pots and pans. When it comes to your cookware, always follow the manufacturer's care instructions. Using these methods may help keep your stainless steel pots and pans looking their best.

HOW DO I TREAT A CAST IRON SKILLET?

To effectively learn how to clean a cast iron skillet, start by rinsing the pan with warm water to remove food particles. For stubborn residue, use a non-metal brush or a sponge, and a little dish soap if needed. Avoid harsh detergents that can strip the seasoning. After scrubbing, rinse thoroughly and dry the skillet completely to help prevent rust. To protect the seasoning, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or shortening, then wipe dry with a paper towel before storing. 

Cast iron should not be exposed to water for prolonged periods of time. This means you should skip the dishwasher and never soak your cast iron pans. If you need to loosen cooked-on food debris, add enough water to cover any stuck-on food, then simmer over low heat for a few minutes. Once everything has cooled down, you can use a food scraper to gently loosen grime. 

Some enameled cast iron is dishwasher safe, though it’s generally recommended to hand wash it. For enameled cast iron, such as Dutch ovens, allow the pan to cool completely. Fill it with warm, soapy water and let it soak for a few minutes. Use a soft sponge or brush to gently scrub the surface. Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch the enamel. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

Learning how to clean a cast iron skillet properly is key to preserving its longevity. Using these methods can help but always defer to the care instructions for your pot or pan as each one can vary.

CLEANING NON-STICK COOKWARE

To effectively clean a non-stick pan, start by letting it cool completely. Use a soft sponge, warm water and mild dish soap to wipe the pan down, avoiding abrasive scrubbers that can damage the coating. For stubborn stains or stuck-on food, fill the cookware with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Let it soak to loosen debris before cleaning. Finally, when you’re all done, dry the pan with a soft cloth before storing.

IS NON-STICK COOKWARE DISHWASHER SAFE?

If you’re trying to decide what pots and pans can go in your dishwasher, be aware that those with a non-stick coating may have fragile finishes and might benefit from handwashing to help prevent damage. Some non-stick cookware is dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer's instructions. Non-stick coatings may be sensitive to high heat or harsh dishwasher detergents.

CLEANING CERAMIC COOKWARE

Ceramic cookware may require special care to keep it in top shape. First, allow the cookware to cool completely before cleaning. Then, use a soft sponge or cloth, warm water and mild dish soap to gently scrub away any food residue. Avoid harsh scrub brushes or metal scouring pads, as they can scratch the ceramic surface. 

For stubborn stains or burnt-on food, create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply to the affected areas and let it sit before gently scrubbing away. As for whether ceramic cookware is dishwasher safe, it depends on the product. Some sets are dishwasher safe, while others may require hand washing. Always check the manufacturer's instructions.

CLEANING ALUMINUM COOKWARE

Aluminum cookware is popular for its heat conductivity and lightweight nature but requires proper care to maintain its shine and functionality. First, make sure it’s cool. Hot cookware can be more susceptible to warping or other damage. For everyday cleaning, you can soak aluminum pots and pans in mild dish soap and warm water. Next, gently scrub with a soft sponge or cloth to remove food residue or stains. Avoid harsh abrasives or steel wool, which can scratch the surface.

For stubborn stains or discoloration, try applying a paste made with baking soda and water. Allow the paste to sit for a few minutes before gently scrubbing with a soft sponge or brush. Alternatively, you can try the salt water method. Boil water with a few tablespoons of salt, let it cool and then scrub the entire pan. Both baking soda and salt are mild abrasives that can help restore aluminum pots and pans.

After washing aluminum pots or pans, dry them completely to prevent water spots or mineral buildup. Store in a clean and dry cabinet to help maintain their quality.

CAN YOU PUT ALUMINUM PANS IN THE DISHWASHER?

Unfortunately, many kinds of aluminum pans and pots are not dishwasher safe. The high heat and cleaning agents used during a dishwasher cycle can cause tarnishing, discoloration, or a rough texture. It’s generally recommended to hand wash aluminum pots and pans unless they are designated dishwasher safe by the manufacturer.

CLEANING COPPER POTS & PANS

Copper pots and pans offer excellent heat conductivity and a beautiful appearance but can tarnish over time. To properly care for copper cookware you need to not only clean, but polish your pots and pans. Follow the tips below for pots that cook as beautifully as they shine.

HOW TO CLEAN COPPER COOKWARE

Everyday messes can be cleaned with warm water, a few drops of dish soap, a soft sponge or cloth and some gentle scrubbing. For stubborn stains or burnt-on food, start by soaking the pan in warm water with a higher concentration of dish soap until the food residue softens. If this still doesn’t do the trick, you can try simmering water with a few tablespoons of baking soda until the water evaporates. Add a little more water and while still warm (not hot!), gently scrub the interior of the pan with a nylon sponge.

HOW TO POLISH COPPER COOKWARE

To help avoid tarnish, or combat the beginnings of tarnish on your copper pots and pans, combine equal parts vinegar, salt and flour to make a paste. Apply to the copper surface with a soft sponge and let it sit for about 30 seconds. Gently polish in circular motions using the sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel. 

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and care. Regular maintenance can help keep your copper pots and pans looking their best.

HOW TO CLEAN A FRYING PAN BOTTOM

Cleaning the bottom of frying pans can be challenging. Try this go-to solution if you are wondering how to clean a frying pan bottom. Start by creating a paste using three parts baking soda and one part water. Apply this paste generously to the burnt or stained areas and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Afterward, scrub the bottom with a non-scratch sponge to lift away the grime. For tougher stains, you can enhance your cleaning solution by adding a splash of vinegar to help break down stubborn residues. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Check your user manual to make sure this method is also safe for your pans.

DISCOVER MAYTAG^® DISHWASHERS

Simplify cleanup with select Maytag^® dishwashers that feature Increased Upper Rack Height that helps you fit in bulky pots and pans usually left for the bottom rack without the need for a second load. Browse the full selection of Maytag^® dishwashers to explore features like Dual Power Filtration and Steam Sanitize, available on select models, so you can unload dishes with confidence.