How to Clean the Bottom of Pots & Pans

Polish the bottoms of pots and pans to keep them clean.

Keeping the bottoms of pots and pans clean proves a never-ending chore. Metals such as stainless steel and copper become discolored. Clear or solid glass-type cookware shows cooked-on debris, dark marks and hard water stains. The University of Wisconsin Extension recommends using natural, homemade cleaners. Even if the pot bottoms hang on display from a pot rack, keep them clean with minimal fuss and without harmful chemicals.

Things You'll Need

• Scouring pads, 1 synthetic non scratch type, 1 metal coil type
• Dishcloth
• Steel wool
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Salt
• Flour

Instructions

Stainless Steel Pots and Pans

1. Wash the stainless steel pots and pans in dish soap and hot water.

2. Rinse the cookware in plain, warm water to remove soap and to assure a wet surface. Shake baking soda over the bottom of the pot. Scour the stainless steel pot bottom with a synthetic scrubbing pad to remove black marks and prevent scratches.

3. Polish the bottoms of stainless steel pots and pans with a clean, dry dishcloth.

Copper-Bottomed and Other Pots and Pans

1. Mix 1 tbs. flour, 1 tbsp. white vinegar and 1 tbsp. salt to create a polish for pot bottoms. Apply the mixture to the pot bottoms with a sponge or non-scratch pad and rub the mixture all over the surface to remove discolorations.

2. Wash the pans in hot soapy water. Rinse with plain warm water.

3. Remove stubborn hard water spots from cookware by rubbing a dab of toothpaste on the spots. Rinse thoroughly.

4. Polish the pots with a clean, dry dishtowel.

Tips & Warnings

• Soak pots and pans in hot water and dish soap for at least 15 minutes before cleaning.

• Add 1/4 cup white vinegar to the rinse water to help remove tarnish. Soak pots overnight in this solution, if needed.

• Baking soda also works well for removing discolorations from aluminum and other metal pot bottoms.

• Never combine bleach or products containing bleach such as commercial scouring powders with vinegar. Harmful fumes result.

References

• University of Wisonsin Outgamie Extension: Tried and True Recipes for a Less Hazardous Home (pdf)
• Michigan State University Extension: Homemade Cleaners: Safer Alternatives