How to Clean Chef-Grade Stainless Steel Cookware

Many home chefs dream of owning chef-grade stainless steel cookware, such as Viking and All Clad brand cookware. These pots and pans are suitable for any cooking surface, including induction, and are designed with multi-layers of stainless steels and other alloys so the cookware will last without warping. Usually chef-grade stainless steel cookware come with a lifetime guarantee. However, this only covers manufacture defects, not damages caused from improper use and care. If you have invested in this kind of expensive cookware, you need to take proper care when cleaning.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dish soap
• Dish rag
• Nylon scrubbing pad
• Bartender's Friend or other cookware cleanser
• Baking soda

1. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Most chef-grade stainless steel cookware will say they are dishwasher-safe. If this is the case, clean your cookware in the dishwasher. However, for more cleaning tips and directions for hand washing, stubborn stains and for special cleaning, proceed to the following steps.

2. Hand wash your cookware. After your cookware has cooled, you can use regular dish soap and hot water to wash your chef-grade stainless steel cookware. Use a soft cloth or nylon scrubbing pad. Do not use steel wool or bleach.

3. Remove stubborn food by soaking your cookware in warm water. Use a cleansing powder designed for stainless steel, such as Barkeepers Friend or Wenol, which are available at most retail stores that sell cookware and on the Internet. You may also be able to use baking soda, but check with your manufacturer to be sure. Form a paste with the cleanser and water and scrub in circular motions, using a soft cloth or nylon scrubbing pads. Start in the middle and work your way to the outside. Then wash with hot soapy water and rinse. You can clean the outside and inside of your pots and pans this way. Again, do not use steel wool or bleach.

4. Dry immediately with a clean rag. However you clean your cookware, to avoid spotting and maintain the shine of your stainless steel, you must hand dry after washing.

Tips & Warnings

• To prevent small white spots from forming, add salt only after liquids have boiled. Do not overheat your cookware. Follow the manufacturer's directions for heating and cooling your cookware.