How to clean burnt food off pans?

Simple Cleaning Method

• Soak the Pan: Remove any loose burnt pieces with a spatula, then fill your pan with enough hot water and add a drop or two of mild dish soap. Place the pan on the stove and bring the water close to boiling. This step helps to loosen the burnt food from the surface.
• Let It Sit: After a few minutes of heating, carefully take the pan off the stove and allow it to cool slightly. Then, let the pan soak for about 15–30 minutes. Soaking softens the stuck-on food, making it easier to remove.
• Scrub Gently: Using a non-abrasive scrubber or sponge, gently scrub the burnt areas. If you are working with a delicate nonstick surface, avoid using metal scouring pads to prevent damage.
• Baking Soda Paste: For tougher, stubborn spots, mix a few spoonfuls of baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste. Spread this paste over the burnt areas and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. Baking soda works to break down the burnt residue without harming the pan.
• Alternative Method with Vinegar: If needed, you can also fill your pan with a mixture of water and a splash of vinegar and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cool and then scrub away the loosened burnt bits. This method can be useful when baking soda alone doesn’t completely remove the residue.
• Rinse and Dry: Once you’ve scrubbed away the burnt food, thoroughly rinse the pan with warm water to remove any remaining soap or paste. Finally, dry the pan with a soft cloth to prevent water spots or rust, especially if it is made of metal.

Additional Tips for Tough Burns

• Repeat if Necessary: For very stubborn burnt food, you may need to repeat the soaking and scrubbing process a couple of times.
• Patience is Key: Allowing the cleaning agents (soap, baking soda, or vinegar) sufficient time to work on the burnt residue will lead to better results than rushing the process.
• Safe Temperature Handling: Always handle hot water and pans with caution to avoid burns. Use appropriate kitchen tools such as pot holders.