Cleaning Stainless Steel Pans

Stainless steel pan with spaghetti beside it.Cleaning stainless steel pans.

Over time, stainless steel pots and pans tend to build up a film that often resists any amount of scrubbing. These tips for cleaning stainless steel pans can help clear things up.

This material is aptly named, thankfully. True to its name, it resists stains, but it can retain fingerprints.

The quickest way to remove burnt-on stains or scorches is to use a metal polish or cleaner, the type you'll find at your local grocery or hardware store.

But there are other options for cleaning stainless steel pans you can try at home first. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the metal polish and to prevent fingerprints on stainless steel pans when cleaning them.

Cleaning Stainless Steel Pans

Rinse stainless steel pots and pans under warm running water and use a mild dish soap such as dishwashing liquid to remove surface dirt.


  • Avoid abrasives - they'll destroy the surface sheen of stainless steel pots.
  • Clean cooked-on food or grease by gently scrubbing it with a paste of baking soda and water, using a soft rag or nylon scrubber.


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