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How to Clean Muffin Tins

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 16, 2025

Discover simple, effective tips for cleaning muffin tins using E-Cloth. Achieve spotless results with minimal effort—no harsh chemicals needed.

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How to Clean Muffin Tins

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Dish soap
- Non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristled brush
- Paper towels
- Hot water

Prepare the Muffin Tin

Allow the muffin tin to cool completely if it was recently used. A room-temperature tin is safer to clean.

Rinse and Soak

Rinse out any loose crumbs or batter under warm running water.
Fill your sink with hot water and add a squirt of dish soap. Submerge the muffin tin and let it soak for 10-15 minutes.

Scrub with a Non-Abrasive Sponge

Using a non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristled brush, scrub each individual cup. Pay extra attention to corners and any stuck-on residue.

Rinse Thoroughly

After scrubbing, hold the tin under running water to rinse off all soap and loosened grime.

Dry Completely

Dry the muffin tin thoroughly with paper towels or let it air dry on a clean rack. This prevents any remaining moisture from affecting future bakes.

Precautions:

Always Refer to the Manufacturer's Instructions

Ensure you read and follow any specific precautionary guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

Avoid Abrasive Tools

Do not use steel wool, rough scrubbers, or harsh scouring pads that could scratch the surface.

Mind the Temperature

Let muffin tins cool completely before cleaning to prevent burns or deformation.

Steer Clear of Harsh Chemicals

Avoid strong chemicals or bleach which can deteriorate the material or non-stick coatings over time.

Handle Non-Stick Coatings with Care

Use only mild detergents and soft sponges to prevent damaging any non-stick surfaces.

Prevent Mixing Cleaning Agents

Do not combine different cleaning solutions, as unexpected chemical reactions can occur.

Use Adequate Ventilation

Ensure proper airflow if you're using any cleaning agents that release fumes.

How to Maintain Cleanliness Muffin Tins: Extra Tips

Pre-Soak Immediately After Use

Fill your sink with warm water and a drop of dish soap as soon as you’re done baking. This stops dried-on batter from becoming a permanent stain.
Let the muffin tins soak for 10-15 minutes, so the residue softens and makes cleaning a breeze.

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Use Baking Soda and Vinegar for Stubborn Spots

Sprinkle a layer of baking soda over the tin, then spritz white vinegar onto the baking soda to start a gentle fizzing reaction.
Let it sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing with a soft sponge—this combo breaks down baked-on mess without harsh chemicals.

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Avoid Harsh Tools on Non-Stick Surfaces

Use soft sponges or non-abrasive scrub brushes. Metal scrubs can scratch the finish causing future sticking and wear.
If necessary, try a plastic scraper to gently lift any stuck-on particles.

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Regular Maintenance and Proper Storage

After each use, wash your muffin tins immediately to prevent buildup. Daily cleaning saves you from a heavy scrubbing session later.
Store them in a dry, ventilated area. If stacking, place a paper towel or protective barrier between tins to avoid scratches.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning Muffin Tins

Insufficient Pre-Soaking

Failing to let the muffin tins soak means baked-on batter and grease stick stubbornly to the surface.
This forces you into a battle with stubborn residue using extra elbow grease, which might still not work effectively.
A quick pre-soak in warm, soapy water can make a world of difference by loosening grime before scrubbing.

Using Harsh Abrasives

Using steel wool or abrasive scrubbers can damage the delicate non-stick coating on muffin tins.
This often leaves scratches that both look bad and make the tin more prone to further buildup and stains.
Opt for soft sponges or cloths along with gentle cleaning solutions to preserve the finish.

Neglecting Thorough Drying

Not fully drying your muffin tins after cleaning can lead to rust spots or water stains.
Moisture left behind encourages rusting, especially in tins with exposed metal areas.
Properly towel dry or let them air dry completely on a rack before storing away.

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How Often to Clean How to Clean Muffin Tins

Cleaning Frequency for Muffin Tins

After Every Use: It’s best to clean your muffin tins right after you use them. Allowing baked-on batter or grease to sit can make it much harder to remove later—and nobody wants residue influencing the next batch!
Deep Clean Periodically: Even with regular use and cleaning, plan for a thorough deep clean every few weeks. This extra step ensures that any lingering buildup is completely removed, keeping your pans performing at their best and your baked goods tasting fresh.

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