Avoid this common mistake if you want your cookware to last longer.
Many home cooks have the habit of soaking dishes immediately after cooking to prevent food residues from hardening. While this works for plates and pots, it is not recommended for pans. Here’s why.
The Science Behind It
Pans are commonly used for frying with oil, which has a much higher boiling point than water—three times higher, in fact. This means that food cooked in oil reaches much higher temperatures than food boiled in water.
So, why shouldn’t you pour water onto a hot pan immediately after use? The answer lies in simple physics: sudden temperature changes cause thermal shock. This can lead to microcracks both on the surface and within the material of the pan.
No matter if your pan is made of cast iron or stainless steel, rapid temperature fluctuations can deform it, making the bottom uneven. Over time (especially with repeated exposure), the pan may no longer sit flat on the stove, leading to uneven heating. This can cause food to burn or remain undercooked.
Expert Tip: Allow the pan to cool for about 10 minutes until it reaches room temperature. You’ll still be able to clean food residue effectively, and you’ll extend the life of your pan.
How to Properly Clean Pans Based on Material
Teflon
Avoid using metal sponges and dish brushes on Teflon pans. Clean them with household soap or standard dishwashing liquid and a soft sponge.
Ceramic
Ceramic pans are sensitive to temperature changes, which can cause them to crack. Avoid placing frozen foods on a hot ceramic surface. Clean these pans after they’ve cooled with room-temperature water and dish soap.
Marble-Coated
Marble-coated pans are known for their durability and heat resistance, but they don’t handle sudden temperature changes well and should not be soaked for long periods. The best way to clean them is with dish soap or household soap.
Non-Stick
After cooking, let non-stick pans cool to room temperature before washing. Use warm water and a soft sponge, avoiding abrasive powders and stiff brushes.
Extra Tip: If there’s only oil residue on the surface without any burnt food, consider simply wiping the pan with a paper towel. A slight oil layer left on the pan’s surface won’t harm it.
By following these cleaning practices and avoiding thermal shock, you can keep your pans in excellent condition for many years.