How to Make Pots and Pans Sparkle Like New
Over time, pots and pans can accumulate stubborn stains, grease, and discoloration from everyday use. With the right cleaning techniques and natural ingredients, you can restore their shine and make them look like new again.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Methods
1. Baking Soda and Vinegar for Stainless Steel
Why It Works: Baking soda is a gentle abrasive, while vinegar cuts through grease and stains.
How to Use:
Sprinkle baking soda over the surface of the pot or pan.
Pour a small amount of white vinegar onto the baking soda (it will fizz).
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
Scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.
Rinse with warm water and dry with a soft towel.
2. Lemon and Salt for Tarnished Aluminum
Why It Works: Lemon removes oxidation, and salt acts as a natural scrub.
How to Use:
Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle salt on the cut side.
Rub the lemon over the tarnished areas.
Rinse with warm water and dry.
3. Dish Soap and Boiling Water for Burnt-on Residue
Why It Works: Boiling water loosens burnt food, and dish soap helps break it down.
How to Use:
Fill the pot or pan with enough water to cover the burnt areas.
Add a few drops of dish soap.
Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Let the water cool slightly, then scrub the residue away with a sponge.
4. Cream of Tartar for Non-Stick Pans
Why It Works: Cream of tartar gently removes stains without damaging the non-stick coating.
How to Use:
Mix 1 tablespoon of cream of tartar with a few drops of water to form a paste.
Apply the paste to the stained areas.
Let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water and wipe clean.
5. Ketchup for Copper Pots and Pans
Why It Works: The acidity in ketchup removes tarnish and restores copper’s shine.
How to Use:
