The Mistake That Can Quickly Discolor Your Stainless Steel Cookware

Over a century ago, a metallurgist named Harry Brearley of the United Kingdom discovered a new metal alloy to prolong the life of gun barrels. He found this alloy was resistant to rust and called it Rustless Steel. This new metal began being used across multiple industries and found its way into the kitchen, first as cutlery and then, by the mid-1900s, the stainless steel cookware we all know and love. This cookware has remained a favorite for generations due to its resistance to rust, scratching, corrosion, and staining. It's one of the most versatile kitchen staples around. If you're in the market for a new set of cookware, check out everything you need to know before you buy stainless steel cookware. You also want to familiarize yourself with the mistake that could cause your cookware to discolor — high heat.

With care, stainless steel can withstand decades of regular use. Most stainless steel pots and pans today are made with multiple layers of metal — including aluminum or copper — fused between stainless steel on the bottom to ensure even cooking. It is compatible with all types of cooktops and is oven and dishwasher-safe. Unfortunately, though, nothing is perfect, and the term "stainless" is a bit misleading. Over time, those shiny pieces will become discolored. It happens to the best of us.

A reaction between chromium in the steel — which helps prevent rust — and oxygen creates a rainbow of colors when the pan is subjected to high heat.  It's very common and almost unavoidable. This rainbow is harmless, and the pan is perfectly safe to use. It's just a bit unsightly. Luckily, it's super easy to clean. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water and pour enough into the pan to cover the stain. The vinegar's acidity helps break down the oxidized layer that's causing the rainbow effect. Gently scrub the area with a sponge or a cloth. Once clean, rinse well and then dry completely. Vinegar is a versatile, natural cleaner that can be used all over the house. You can easily find the best DIY vinegar cleaning solutions to tackle every mess in your home. 

While the rainbow discoloration is common, there are steps you can take to prevent it from happening. Try not to cook at excessively high heat for long periods of time, as high heat is the number one cause of this discoloration. Also, never leave your stainless steel pots or pans on a hot burner. Clean them with gentle methods like warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. You don't want to use harsh chemicals like bleach because they can damage the chromium oxide layer, which is there to protect your cookware. You can also use one of these 12 pantry essentials to shine up your stainless steel cookware.