How to Clean Burned Things Off of a Stainless Steel Skillet

Stainless steel cookware can be cleaned with vinegar.

Stainless steel is generally resistant to wear and tear, but it is not exempt. Food and grease can burn on to stainless steel skillets and pots. Burned-on food and grease can be difficult to remove if you don't know what you are doing. Sometimes, even a long soak in soapy water won't remove burned-on stains. That being said, you can remove burnt-on food from stainless steel with vinegar and water if you follow a few steps.

Things You'll Need

• Distilled white vinegar
• Sponge
• Paper towels
• Dish soap
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Rinse away loose debris and food from your stainless steel skillet by running it under a stream of warm water. Dry the bottom of the skillet with a paper towel and place it back on the stove.

2. Pour one cup of distilled white vinegar in the skillet. Add water until the burnt food and stains are submerged.

3. Turn on the stove and allow the water and vinegar to boil for about five minutes. Watch the skillet carefully so the mixture doesn't boil over.

4. Remove the skillet from the stove and allow it to cool. When the skillet is cool enough to touch use a sponge to scrub loose the stains and burnt-on food.

5. Wash the skillet with warm water and dish soap and rinse in cold water. Dry with a soft cloth.

References

• Reader's Digest: 20+ Ways to Easily Clean Pots and Pans
• Vinegar Book: Shine Stainless Steel with Vinegar