Cleaning a burnt Teflon pan requires some extra care to avoid damaging the non-stick coating. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you clean a burnt Teflon pan effectively:
Safety first: Make sure the pan is completely cooled before attempting to clean it. Also, work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any fumes.
Remove loose residue: Use a soft spatula or a plastic scraper to gently remove any loose food or residue from the pan. Be careful not to scrape too hard, as you don't want to scratch the Teflon coating.
Soak in warm water: Fill the burnt pan with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Let it soak for about 15 to 30 minutes. This will help loosen the burnt-on food.
Scrub gently: After soaking, use a soft sponge or non-abrasive brush to scrub the surface of the pan. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers, steel wool, or metal utensils, as they can scratch the Teflon coating. Scrub in a circular motion to remove the burnt residue.
Baking soda paste: For stubborn stains or burnt-on residue, you can make a baking soda paste. Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the affected areas and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, gently scrub with a soft sponge or brush. Baking soda is mildly abrasive and can help remove tough stains without damaging the Teflon coating.
Rinse thoroughly: Once you've removed the burnt-on residue, rinse the pan thoroughly with warm water. Ensure that all traces of soap, baking soda, or residue are completely removed.
Dry properly: After rinsing, dry the pan with a soft cloth or allow it to air dry completely. Avoid stacking other pans or placing anything on top of the Teflon surface to prevent scratching.
Remember, Teflon pans are sensitive to high heat and abrasive materials, so it's important to handle them with care and avoid using metal utensils or harsh cleaning tools. Regular, gentle cleaning will help prolong the life of your Teflon pan.