25.01.2025

Learn how to clean the bottom of pots and pans to make them look like new

By Lesia
Cleaning the bottom of pots and pans to make them look like new can be simple with a few effective tricks. Over time, grease, grime, and burnt residues build up, making them look old and dull. Here’s how you can restore their shine with natural and household items.

1. Baking Soda and White Vinegar Method

What You Need:

  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Scrubbing pad or sponge

Steps:

  1. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the bottom of the pan.
  2. Pour white vinegar over the baking soda to create a fizzing reaction.
  3. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to break down the grease and burnt spots.
  4. Scrub the bottom with a scrubbing pad or sponge until the stains are gone.
  5. Rinse with warm water and dry.

2. Salt and Lemon Scrub

What You Need:

  • Coarse salt
  • Half a lemon

Steps:

  1. Sprinkle coarse salt on the bottom of the pot or pan.
  2. Use the cut side of a lemon to scrub the salt over the surface.
  3. The natural acids in the lemon will break down stains while the salt acts as an abrasive.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry.

3. Dish Soap and Aluminum Foil

What You Need:

  • Dish soap
  • A ball of aluminum foil

Steps:

  1. Add a few drops of dish soap to the bottom of the pan.
  2. Scrub the area using a crumpled ball of aluminum foil.
  3. This method works well for stainless steel and removes burnt-on grease effectively.
  4. Rinse with water and dry.

4. Cream of Tartar Paste

What You Need:

  • Cream of tartar
  • Water

Steps:

  1. Mix cream of tartar with a little water to create a paste.
  2. Apply the paste to the bottom of the pan and let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
  3. Scrub with a sponge or cloth and rinse with water.

5. Oven Cleaner (For Heavy-Duty Cleaning)

What You Need:

  • Oven cleaner spray

Steps:

  1. Spray oven cleaner on the bottom of the pot or pan.
  2. Let it sit for the recommended time (check the product label).
  3. Scrub with a sponge or brush and rinse thoroughly.
    Note: Only use this method for stainless steel or cast iron pans, not non-stick surfaces.

6. Coca-Cola Method

What You Need:

  • A can of Coca-Cola

Steps:

  1. Pour Coca-Cola onto the bottom of the pan and let it sit for 1–2 hours.
  2. The acid in the soda helps dissolve grease and burnt stains.
  3. Scrub the area gently and rinse with water.

Tips for Maintaining Pots and Pans

  • Regular Cleaning: Wipe the bottom of pots and pans after every use to prevent buildup.
  • Avoid Abrasive Tools: Use non-scratch pads to avoid damaging the surface.
  • Dry Immediately: Always dry your cookware immediately to prevent water stains.

Conclusion

With these simple methods, you can make the bottoms of your pots and pans look like new again. Whether you prefer natural ingredients like baking soda and lemon or heavy-duty cleaners for stubborn stains, these tricks will restore their shine in no time! 🧽✨

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