05.05.2025

Clean Your Burnt Pan and Make It As Good As New in Two Minutes – The Kitchen Trick Everyone Should Know

By Vitia

Burnt pans are one of the most frustrating kitchen mishaps. Whether it’s from leaving the heat too high or getting distracted, those blackened, stuck-on layers of food can seem impossible to remove. But before you throw out that scorched pot or spend hours scrubbing, there’s a fast, effective solution — and it only takes two minutes.

Why Burnt Pans Happen

Pans usually get burnt when food is overheated or left on the stove too long. Non-stick coatings, stainless steel, and even cast iron can fall victim. While harsh scrubbing can damage cookware over time, there are safer and more natural ways to clean them quickly — using ingredients you already have at home.


What You’ll Need

  • 1 cup of white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons of baking soda
  • 1 cup of water
  • Soft sponge or dish brush

Optional: a few drops of lemon juice for a fresh scent


Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Burnt Pan in Just 2 Minutes

  1. Add Water and Vinegar
    Pour about 1 cup of water and 1 cup of white vinegar into the burnt pan. Make sure it covers the burnt area.
  2. Bring to a Boil
    Place the pan on the stove and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer for 1 minute. The heat and vinegar begin loosening the burnt residue.
  3. Remove from Heat and Add Baking Soda
    Take the pan off the stove. Slowly add 2 tablespoons of baking soda. It will fizz — this reaction helps break down the burn marks.
  4. Scrub Gently
    After the fizzing stops, use a soft sponge or brush to gently scrub the burnt area. Most of the grime should lift off effortlessly.
  5. Rinse and Dry
    Rinse the pan with clean water and dry thoroughly. Your pan should look shiny and nearly brand new!

Extra Tips

  • For tougher stains, repeat the process or leave the vinegar and baking soda mixture to soak for 10–15 minutes.
  • Avoid using metal scrubbers on non-stick or coated pans.
  • You can also add a slice of lemon while boiling for a pleasant, fresh scent and added cleaning power.

Cleaning your burnt pan doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With this simple trick, you’ll save time, protect your cookware, and avoid toxic cleaning chemicals.

👍 If this tip saved your favorite pan, please like, share, and follow for more smart home hacks and everyday solutions!