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How to make your non-stick pan last longer

It is rather frustrating to invest in a good non-stick pan and then see the coating come off ...

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How to make your non stick pan last longer

It is rather frustrating to invest in a good non-stick pan and then see the coating come off within a few week’s time, isn’t it? Well, in most cases it is careless handling of the pan that is to blame…we buy non-stick pans for cooking and baking to cook in a healthier way, using less oil and fat, and also to reduce the pain of scrubbing greasy vessels clean. Non-stick pans are easily cleaned with a sponge and dishwashing liquid. Improper care can ruin the coating very easily. And we want you to enjoy the investment you have made in your pans for a long time. What is improper care actually? Here are some pointers…

The storing blunder

Imagine a haphazard pile of pans that too kept with other metal vessels or implements. The non-stick coating is bound to be scratched. Store the non-stick pans separately, preferably with lids on, and do not put other metal bowls, pans, plates, lids inside to save space. Also do not pile up non-stick pans in the kitchen sink for washing with other utensils. Once done with cooking, allow it to cool, wash separately, wipe dry and store.

Controlling the water temperature

Using cool or lukewarm water to wash very hot non-stick pans can cause your pan to warp. A warped pan will not have even heat distribution and cooking abilities will be reduced. Always allow your pan to cool completely before immersing it. This we have already covered a bit in point one.

Using metal spoons, ladles, etc

Refrain from using any metal utensils in your non stick pan to stir, turn food, scrape food residue, or blend foods right in the pan. The best utensils to use are wood, plastic, or silicone. Many companies are now making silicone whisks which are terrific for that quick blending. Even occasional fork-turning can nick and scratch your pan.

Cleaning with a harsh hard scouring pad

Using scouring products that are metal based or have harsh cleansers, can wear off the coating on your pans. Always use soft sponges. Allowing your pan to soak for a moment will usually loosen foods and enable you to clean it with just warm water, mild soap and a soft cloth.

Dishwasher not advised

Dishwasher detergents generally are too harsh for most non-stick cookware and kitchenware, and will eventually cause the finish to wear off. Bakeware that has scratches in it may also not dry completely and could rust. Hand wash your non-stick pan and dry completely before storing.

Cooking on high heat

Most non-stick cookware is made for low and medium heat cooking. Too high a heat can wear the finish, as well as cause pans to warp. To maintain your pan and increase its lifespan, follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding cooking heat.

Storing foods in the non stick pans

Foods should never be stored in the pans but should be removed and pans should be cleaned carefully and dried before storing.

Cutting pizza with a cutter 

Cutting your pizza right in the non-stick pizza pan will mar the finish. Always slide your pizza out unto a wooden cutting board, and then apply the pizza cutter to cut into wedges.

Misusing pans for other purposes

This is best explained with the example of say, a non-stick bread pan. Non-stick bread pans provide for easy removal of fresh baked bread. But using these same pans for meatloaf or other foods (with high acidic content) will wear off the coating quicker, as some foods reduce the lifespan of your pans, making them harder to clean and more prone to rust. Keep bread pans just for bread, and designate another pan for other foods. This way you will ensure no pan residue ends up on your freshly baked bread. 

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