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How to Clean an Aluminum Pan Burn

Aluminum pans are an inexpensive and reliable type of cookware found in many household kitchens. As with most other pans, burned food on aluminum can be difficult to remove. It can sometimes leave behind an unsightly discoloration. However, these stains don't mean that the pan has to be tossed, as there are steps you can take to remove them. Get rid of food residue before tackling the stain and avoid using steel wool, as doing so may lead to scratches.

Things You'll Need

  • Spatula
  • Cream of tartar
  • Knife
  • Lemon
  • Salt
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill the pan with enough water to cover its bottom.

    • 2

      Place the pan onto the stove burner and bring it to a boil.

    • 3

      Allow the water to boil for approximately 30 seconds and then use a spatula to loosen any food residue.

    • 4

      Refill the pan 3/4 of the way with water if any burned on food remains.

    • 5

      Add 1 tbsp. of cream of tartar to the water and bring it to a boil.

    • 6

      Allow the water and cream of tartar to boil for five to 10 minutes, then empty the pan and wash as usual.

    • 7

      Slice a lemon in half with a sharp knife if signs of the burn are still visible.

    • 8

      Dip the lemon into salt and scrub the pan burn until it is removed.

    • 9

      Wash the pan as usual to remove the lemon juice and salt.