How to Restore Magnalite Professional Cookware

Magnalite Professional Cookware is an aluminum-based line of pots and pans first introduced in the 1930s. Without proper care, the aluminum will become stained or even pitted. Although simple discoloration won't affect the performance of these pots and pans, it looks neither appealing nor appetizing. Pitted or flaking cookware should be replaced altogether.

For discolored but structurally sound pots and pans, you can restore an attractive shine to Magnalite Professional Cookware with a few basic household items. In addition, learning how to properly care for and use your Magnalite pots and pans will prolong their lifespan and reduce how often you need to follow the restoration procedure.

To fix discolored Magnalite pots and pans, begin by scrubbing the discolored areas with a wool pad. Then, rinse with warm water. If needed, follow this procedure by creating a paste from cream of tartar and water and scrubbing it onto the entire surface of the pan. Then rinse the cream of tartar paste off the cookware and towel dry.

If the discoloration persists, add a couple teaspoons of white vinegar to the pot and fill it with warm water. Bring the water to a boil, remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool completely. As the vinegar undergoes the change in temperature, it should help to lift the discolored areas. Remember that leaving an aluminum pot soaked in water will lead to further discoloration, so dump the water as soon as it is cool and towel dry.

Finally, you can restore Magnalite Professional Cookware using Barkeepers Friend, a cleanser and polisher that is useful for removing discoloration and restoring shine to a variety of household surfaces. Although Barkeepers Friend is safe to use inside dishes and cookware, thoroughly rinse your pots and pans after polishing with this product to remove any lingering residue or abrasive materials.

Just like its cast iron counterparts, cast aluminum cookware will oxidize and deteriorate in certain conditions. For example, it's not recommended that tomato-based dishes be cooked in aluminum pots because the acid content of the tomatoes can eat into the metal, causing pits that can't be fixed.

Do not let your Magnalite pots and pans soak in water or put them in the dishwasher. To properly wash Magnalite cookware, scrape out large food remnants, rinse the pot with hot water, and hand-dry it with a towel.

A small amount of soap can be used to remove dried food if desired, but this will also strip the Magnalite cookware of its "seasoning." A properly seasoned Magnalite pot will have a nonstick surface and produce better-tasting food. It will also be less likely to experience damage from oxidation.

Seasoning or conditioning cast aluminum is easy to do and should be performed with brand-new Magnalite Professional Cookware or any time the old seasoning has been stripped away. Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, pour some olive oil or vegetable oil onto a paper towel and thoroughly wipe the oil onto all interior surfaces of the pot or pan. Then, place the oiled cookware in the oven for one to two hours.

This procedure works for all types of cast aluminum products, including a Magnalite Dutch oven or Magnalite roast pan. After using seasoned cookware, be sure to clean it right away by rinsing it with hot water and drying it thoroughly with a towel. Any leftover grease or oil from your meal simply adds to the seasoning. If you decide a dab of soap is necessary, complete the seasoning procedure again.