Teflon, also known as polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE, has become the common name for non-stick pots and pans. It is considered the only substance, thanks to which food does not stick and requires very little lubricant. Some extra care is needed to protect the Teflon to make it last longer.
By itself, Teflon can be put in the dishwasher unless the pan is not made of another delicate material. There are cleaning methods used to remove burnt foods, which are safe for both the Teflon coating and the pan itself. Here’s how to clean Teflon pans without scratching their coating.
Remove any food residues from the pan and wait for it to cool down so that you can easily touch all its surfaces. Usually, it would help if you waited at least half an hour, but it’s a good idea to clean while the pan is still a little hot. It is recommended that you dry the pan with a clean towel or let it drip.
If you are dealing with Teflon-coated pans, buy an abrasive pad which, unlike traditional ones, uses steel wool that can scrape off individual food particles and, at the same time, is scratch-resistant.
If the methods described above do not work, prepare a vinegar and yeast solution: mix 200 ml of hot water with 100 ml of white vinegar and add two teaspoons of baking powder. After mixing well, pour the mixture into the pan, rest for about five minutes, and clean the pan using a soft sponge.
If there are oil or grease stains on the Teflon pan, it is recommended to use a professional degreaser and specific product to remove any stain on the Teflon; you can buy this type of product in hardware stores. Latex gloves are recommended, as this is a fairly strong cleaner.
Read the manufacturer’s instructions and warnings carefully before using this type of product. As an alternative to this method, mix two cups of ammonia in one quart of hot water. Use a spray bottle to apply the solution and scrub with a soft bristle brush, sponge, or clean rag on the pan’s surface.
