The One Kitchen Item You Should Avoid Cleaning With Epsom Salt At All Costs

With its very similar appearance, it is understandable why some would mistake magnesium sulfate, or Epsom salt, for common table salt. Epsom salt is a mineral compound that contains oxygen, magnesium, and sulphur. Primarily known for its medicinal properties, helping with pain relief and skin exfoliation, the uses for Epsom salt have evolved since it was first discovered in the 17th century. While there are many smart ways to use Epsom salt around the house, it should never be used to clean nonstick cookware. 

Since its introduction in 1950s, nonstick cookware has become a popular must-have in kitchens worldwide because of its practical and useful features. Normally made from aluminum or stainless steel, nonstick cookware is distinguished from regular cookware because of the slippery coating on its cooking surface. Nonstick pans repel food particles and grease, making cooking and cleanup much more efficient. However, using Epsom salt is one of the top cleaning mistakes that will ruin your nonstick pans, as the coating will likely become damaged. 

There are two key reasons why Epsom salt can damage nonstick cookware, beginning with its composition. Epsom salt is a mineral, and it is composed of tiny magnesium sulfate crystals, which, like common salt, have rough and pointy edges that can abrade surfaces. The polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating on nonstick cookware — also known as Teflon —  is very thin, which makes it susceptible to scratches. This combination of coarse salt crystals and thin non-stick coating could make your favorite frying pan less effective. 

While the damage Epsom salt can cause may seem insignificant, studies indicate that scratches on nonstick cookware may be enough to release a substantial amount of microplastics, linked to negative health effects. In addition, scratches can lead to even more damage such as peeling, chipping, or flaking particles. Even small scratches can affect the functionality of the cookware, causing food to stick in areas where the coating has eroded, making it harder to clean. 

To avoid damaging nonstick cookware while cleaning, the first step is to allow the pan or pot to cool down first. This step will prevent the metal from warping due to sudden temperature changes from heat to cold water. Hand washing the pan is always a better alternative to the dishwasher, which can also cause the coating to deteriorate. To remove stubborn oil and food particles, use warm water and scrub with a non-abrasive sponge and mild soap. You can also clean nonstick pans with baking soda to remove grease and residue. Lastly, rinse the cookware under cool water and use a clean microfiber towel to dry it completely before putting it away.

Nonstick cookware comes in many varieties; the safest options are typically PTFE-free and made of cast iron or carbon steel. With this being said, nonstick pans require different cleaning and maintenance compared to regular cookware, but the benefits are often worth it. While normal pans may not be damaged by Epsom salt, it should be avoided at all costs with nonstick coating.