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Removing Cooked-on Food From Stainless Steel

Considered one of the most sanitary cooking surfaces, stainless steel cookware is commonly used in the kitchen. While most people believe stainless steel to be resistant to stains, this is not true. In fact, "stainless" refers to the cookware's resistance to corrosion. Burnt-on food leaves unsightly marks on your stainless steel cookware, but properly cleaning it maintains its sleek shine.

Things You'll Need

  • Mild dish detergent
  • White vinegar
  • Wooden spoon
  • Fabric scouring pad
  • High-quality stainless steel cleaner
  • Olive oil (optional)
  • Microfiber cloth (optional)
  • Towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill a sink with hot water. Mix in mild dish detergent safe for stainless steel. Add a cup of vinegar to the water.

    • 2

      Submerge the stainless steel cookware in the vinegar and water solution. Allow it to set for two to four hours.

    • 3

      Use a wooden spoon to gently scrub away the food. Never use a steel wool pad or metal utensil to scrape food off of stainless steel cookware.

    • 4

      Remove the cookware from the water. Remove any excess food using a fabric scouring pad and a high-quality stainless steel cleaner. If you don't have a stainless steel cleaner, pour a teaspoon of olive oil onto a microfiber cloth. Rub down the stainless steel with the cloth. Wipe with a dry towel to remove excess oil.

    • 5

      Rinse the cookware thoroughly, and rewash it using a mild dish detergent and warm soapy water.

    • 6

      Allow the cookware to dry. If any discoloration remains, repeat the vinegar solution method.