HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR KITCHEN COOKWARE FOR THE LONG HAUL

When it comes to the kitchen, cleanliness is a must. It’s not just about wiping down surfaces and keeping things spic and span for the sake of healthy food preparation. A clean kitchen sends a good message to your family, and your guests. Cookware was designed to get dirty, which means it needs extra attention not just for cleanliness, but longevity as well.

In order to keep your cookware looking its best, and in tip-top shape for years to come, it’s important to follow a few tips. Do this regularly, and your cookware will look the part, and stay ready for your next big meal.

BE GENTLE WHEN CLEANING

They may look tough and durable, but cookware can be subject to damage if you’re not careful. Make sure to go easy on your cooking products by avoiding things like rough scrubbing sponges and steel wool. The last thing you want is to damage the coating, which can lead to rust and other problems. Stick to warm water and dish soap, and go easy on the scrubbing. For tough to clean oil spots and burnt food, consider mixing baking soda with water, and applying the mixture for fifteen minutes or so. Then, wipe away gently and avoid any scrapes and scuffs.

READ THE STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

Most cookware comes with specific instructions when it comes to proper storage, and that’s important for things like induction sets or non-stick products. Try to avoid piling pots and pans on top of one another as the damage from contact can start piling up rather fast. Hang your pans if possible so they don’t come into contact with one another, and put adequate space between cookware items to prevent them from bashing together when moving things around.

KEEP SHARP OBJECTS AWAY

It’s no secret that even the most durable cookware doesn’t fare so well against sharp objects. Like any other kind of material, knives and other sharp items can scratch and severely damage your cookware. The same goes for metal utensils. If possible, stick to wooden or plastic spoons that won’t scratch or chip away at your cookware. Once the inner coating comes off, your cookware is vulnerable to rust and other damage that will quickly pile on. 

BE MINDFUL OF NON-STICK COOKWARE

Non-stick cookware is a staple of any kitchen, and these cookware items are becoming more and more popular each day. However, there are a few things you should know about non-stick pans, including what products to use on them. For instance, cooking spray tends to cling to non-stick pans like a magnet, and it’s hard to get off. Over time, this spray will continue to build up, which will make cleaning them that much harder. Second, make sure to lubricate your non-stick cookware by wiping them with a paper towel and some oil. This maintains their brilliance, while also increasing their lifespan. Remember that non-stick cookware has a delicate surface that can be damaged by impact or from continuous rubbing while cleaning. A gentle hand means a longer life for these great cooking products.

So, with a little bit of foreknowledge and a steady hand, you can keep your cookware looking beautiful and vibrant for many years. Not only is it good for the pocketbook, but it’s also a way to impress your guests when they see just how new your cookware looks, even if you’ve been using it for some time!