Quick answers
Non-stick pans should be washed by hand after each use with warm soapy water. Avoid abrasive sponges or scrubbers that can damage the non-stick coating. For tougher messes, a non-abrasive cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend can be used. In general, non-stick pans do not need to go in the dishwasher, as the high heat and harsh detergents can deteriorate the coating over time.
How non-stick coatings work
Non-stick pans are coated with a material called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon. This coating prevents food from sticking to the pan surface when cooking. The non-stick properties come from the low surface energy of PTFE. Oil and water do not readily adhere to non-stick coatings.
PTFE coatings are applied in multiple layers during manufacturing. The bottom primer layer bonds strongly to the metal pan. Next, multiple intermediate mid-coat layers provide durability and abrasion resistance. Finally, a topcoat layer enhances non-stick performance. This layered construction allows non-stick pans to provide easy food release over time.
Proper care extends life of non-stick
With proper care, a quality non-stick pan can maintain its non-stick properties for several years. However, the non-stick coating can be damaged through improper cleaning or cooking practices. Here are some tips for maximizing the lifespan of non-stick cookware:
Use lower heats for cooking
Non-stick coatings breakdown at temperatures above 500°F. High heat from searing or broiling can deteriorate the coating. Cook over medium or medium-low heats to avoid damaging temperatures.
Avoid metal utensils
Metal spatulas, spoons, and whisks can scratch non-stick surfaces. Use wood, plastic, or silicone utensils instead.
Skip the dishwasher
The combination of hot water, steam, and harsh detergents in a dishwasher can slowly erode non-stick coatings. Hand washing is gentler.
Use a soft sponge or cloth
When hand washing, clean gently with a soft sponge, cloth, or brush. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.
Clean spills promptly
Don’t let food or oils bake onto the non-stick surface. Immediately clean any spills or splatters. Soaking or burning-on food residue makes cleanup harder.
How often to wash non-stick pans
For optimal results, non-stick pans should be washed after each use. Leaving food residue or oil behind can impact non-stick performance over time. Here are some washing guidelines:
- Wash after cooking each meal. Don’t let pans sit dirty for extended periods.
- Use warm soapy water for typical cleaning. Avoid very hot water.
- For stubborn residues, fill pan with warm water and let soak briefly to loosen.
- Gently scrub with a soft sponge or cloth. Do not use abrasive scrubbers.
- Rinse thoroughly with clear water.
- Dry completely with a dish towel. Wet pans can develop surface rust.
For very stubborn, baked-on messes, a short soak with a non-abrasive cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend may be required. Use this type of cleaner only occasionally as needed.
Hand washing daily helps non-stick pans look their best and last for many years. The gentle cleaning preserves the non-stick coating.
Signs it’s time to replace a non-stick pan
With regular use, all non-stick pans will degrade and lose their non-stick properties over time. Here are some signs it may be time to retire an old non-stick pan and replace with new:
- Food sticks despite proper preheating and oiling.
- Coating appears scratched, pitted, or flaking.
- Discoloration or patches are visible on cooking surface.
- Pan requires more oil or butter for effective food release.
- Teflon flakes are visible in cooked foods.
When non-stick performance drops substantially, the coating has likely broken down too far to be restored. Continued use will result in more sticking.
For health safety, pans that are flaking or peeling should no longer be used. Ingesting parts of the coating is not advised.
Ideally, non-stick pans should be replaced every 5 years with normal usage. Higher quality brands may last slightly longer.
Choosing a new non-stick pan
When purchasing a new non-stick pan, look for these features:
- Reputable brand. Well-known brands specialize in durable non-stick coatings.
- Thicker gauge aluminum or stainless steel. This reduces hot spots during cooking.
- Riveted handles. Riveting provides a more secure, long lasting handle.
- Oven-safe. Quality non-stick is safe up to 500°F oven use.
- Metal utensil safe. Higher-end coatings hold up to occasional metal use without scratching.
Avoid inexpensive non-stick pans which tend to have thinner, lower quality coatings. Higher price often signifies better performance and longevity.
Types of non-stick coatings
There are a few common varieties of non-stick coatings to consider:
PTFE: This is the original Teflon chemical coating. It provides excellent baseline non-stick ability at low to medium heats. It has reduced durability at higher temperatures.
Ceramic: A ceramic-reinforced coating that is more resistant to high heat degradation versus traditional PTFE. Provides good non-stick for most cooking tasks.
Hard Anodized: Aluminum pans that undergo an electrochemical process to strengthen the surface. This is not a true non-stick coating but provides some release benefits.
Titanium: A modern PTFE formulation reinforced with titanium particles. Offers enhanced non-stick performance and abrasion resistance.
| Coating | Durability | Non-stick ability |
|---|---|---|
| PTFE | Fair | Excellent |
| Ceramic | Good | Very Good |
| Hard Anodized | Very Good | Good |
| Titanium | Excellent | Excellent |
Frequently asked questions
Should non-stick pans be washed in the dishwasher?
No, dishwashers can damage the non-stick coating over time. The combination of hot water, steam, and detergent degrades the coating. Non-stick pans should be hand washed only.
Can metal utensils be used with non-stick?
Metal spatulas, spoons, and whisks can scratch the coating surface. Use wood, plastic, rubber, or silicone utensils instead. However, some modern pans boast metal-utensil-safe coatings designed for occasional metal use.
Is non-stick safe if overheated or scratched?
Overheating empty non-stick pans above 500°F can release toxic fumes. Always cook over gentler heats. Severely scratched or flaking pans may also leach chemicals during cooking. These damaged pans should be immediately replaced.
How can sticky messes be cleaned from non-stick?
Soak in warm soapy water then wash gently with a soft sponge or cloth. For very stubborn residue, apply a non-abrasive cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend and let sit briefly before scrubbing. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.
Should non-stick pans be seasoned like cast iron?
No, seasoning with oil will create a gummy residue that actually impairs non-stick performance. Simply wash, dry thoroughly, and store. Occasional cooking spray before use is acceptable.
Conclusion
Non-stick pans provide convenient cooking when properly maintained. With daily washing, care to avoid scratches, and replacement every 5 years or so, a non-stick pan will deliver years of excellent service. Avoid dishwasher cleaning or abrasive scrubbing to maximize the lifespan of the delicate non-stick coating. Choose high quality pans for increased durability. Follow these simple tips for long-lasting non-stick performance.