As a writer obsessed with cleaning and organizing, I’m always scouring the internet, talking to experts, and searching through reviews to try and find the best products and smartest cleaning methods out there. But that got me thinking — I focus on all the good, but what are some of the things out there that you should absolutely avoid doing or using when cleaning your kitchen?
I talked to a few cleaning experts about the products you should avoid when it comes to cleaning one of the most important kitchen staples: your pots and pans. While you may be familiar with watch-outs regarding cleaning cast-iron, there are plenty of other products to stay away from for all different kinds of surfaces. Below, learn about what’s guaranteed to ruin any pot or pan, no matter what it’s made from.
1. Steel Wool or Scouring Pads
This one might seem obvious, but steel wool and metal scouring pads are just way too rough to be using to clean pots and pans. Unless you’re using them to spot clean stuck-on food or grime, they shouldn’t be used in daily cleaning or washing.
Alicia Sokolowski, a cleaning expert and co-owner of AspenClean, says that steel wool and scouring pads can scratch nonstick pans and even damage the enamel on your pans. Tatyana Dimitrova with U.K. cleaning company Fantastic Services adds that these cleaning products can also create microscopic scratches where food and bacteria can build up over time.
As an alternative, Sokolowski recommends sticking to soft tools like microfiber cloths or soft sponges to clean the surface of your pots and pans. (Some great options are the tried-and-true Scrub Daddy or the editor-loved non-scratch Skura sponges.)
If food is really stuck, Sokolowski says to soak, not scrub. Soak the pan in warm, soapy water before trying to clean it. If it’s really stubborn, you can also try scrubbing with a damp cloth and some kosher salt to remove it.
Bleach has its place in housecleaning, but it’s another harsh cleaner that you probably don’t want near your everyday cooking tools. Not only is bleach incredibly harmful if ingested, Scott Schrader of CottageCare cleaning company says it can also corrode stainless steel and discolor enamel. Instead, Schrader says a great alternative is to soak pans in white vinegar, which can cut grease and remove stains — plus, it’s all-natural!
3. Oven Cleaners
Another item on the no-no list for cleaning pots and pans are oven cleaners. Jessica Gonzalez of Sparkly Maid in San Antonio, Texas, says they can corrode metal and leave behind harmful residues. Dimitrova seconds that they can be especially damaging on pots and pans: “They’re extremely caustic and can remove coatings, tarnish metals, and even cause chemical reactions with aluminium or copper.”
Instead, experts recommend opting for gentler or all-natural cleaning products, like a mixture of vinegar and water or dish soap. Dawn Ultra dish soap is The Kitchn editors’ top overall pick this year because it’s great at removing all types of leftover food and stains, and a little goes a long way.
4. Abrasive Powders
While some powders like baking soda are generally fine to use on your pots and pans, you’ll want to avoid most commercially abrasive cleaning powders like Comet or Ajax.
While effective at cleaning other surfaces, these products can strip finishes, dull surfaces, and create scratches, according to Sokolowski. Gonzalez says the best method when it comes to cleaning pots and pans is to check the manufacturer’s instructions, stick to gentle methods, and avoid harsh products.
Have you ever ruined your pots and pans with a harsh cleaner? Let us know in the comments below!