The Cleaning Mistake That's Shortening The Life Of Non-Stick Pans

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Non-stick pans are a game-changer for your cooking experience, allowing you to fry and sauté without residue sticking to the surface. However, just like any other kitchen essential, your non-stick pans must be cleaned regularly. But, don't even think about throwing them in the dishwasher. This common mistake will shorten the lifespan of your non-stick cookware. Certain exceptions can be made, depending on the type of non-stick coating on your pan, but be sure to check the manufacturer's instructions first.

In most cases, dishwashers dull and eventually erode the coating on non-stick pans. Between the heat and pressure of the water, a single dishwasher cycle can wear down the outer later. You may even notice peeling around the edges right away. Plus, most store-bought dishwasher detergents have abrasive chemicals that can damage your cookware. Overcrowding your dishwasher can also lead to scratches, dents, and other damage, not only to your non-stick pan but everything else, too. Thankfully, there are all kinds of nonstick pan cleaning tricks that will protect your cookware for many omelets and stir fry dishes to come. 

You can still use the dishwasher on your cookware, especially when you can't find the energy to hand wash, as long as you follow the manufacturer's instructions, review the piece's overall condition, and know the coating it has on its surface. Before using your non-stick item, you must always review the manufacturer's printed or online manual for detailed steps. This is where you will see if it is dishwasher safe, top rack only, or hand wash only. However, it's important to remember that daily cooking leads to wear and tear, leaving these well-loved pieces not in the best condition for the harsh appliance. 

The best way to know whether dishwashing is okay is to understand the different non-stick coatings. The most common is polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE coatings), but silicone and ceramic versions are also used. Some options, like the Blue Diamond Ceramic Non-Stick Pan, can handle the cycle of a dishwasher, while most others, like Teflon, will require you to properly hand wash dishes. Hybrid coatings with stainless steel and ceramic, like the Cooker King Non-Stick Stainless Steel Cookware Set, are also safe to put inside the washing appliance. While PTFE coatings stopped having PFOA, a harmful chemical released through heat, since 2013, it's still good to practice cooking and cleaning heat management with these pieces to stop any other problems from happening. However, with all those tedious steps, hand washing is your safest bet for the longest lifespan possible. 

The best way to clean your non-stick cookware is with warm water, mild dish soap, and proper drying and storing. However, don't just wash a hot pan in water without letting it cool down fully since this extreme temperature change can cause unexpected damages. After it cools down, dunk your cookware in warm, soapy water, removing all the lingering food crumbs. Grab a non-abrasive sponge, gently washing off the piece. Rinse and repeat until it is clean. Before you put it away, you must dry every piece with a soft cloth. Then, store them away with a paper towel or rag in between each item to prevent scratches if you plan on stacking them.

For tougher stains, there are a few other ways to get rid of burnt bits and spots. Create a paste by combining one teaspoon of baking soda and two teaspoons of water and scrub it on the surface, removing the grime. You also can add vinegar to the mixture for more persistent residue. While not necessary, you also can extend the longevity of your non-stick pan by adding a drop of cooking oil, rubbing it all over its surface after it is squeaky clean. And while you may be tempted to keep it forever, these cooking items should be tossed if you see dark discoloration, deep scratches, warping, peeling, flaking, and chipping.