Is your skillet looking a little beat up? Crunchy bits at the bottom, scummy residue in the corners, areas on the inside that seem like they could dissolve if they went into the dishwasher?
Many of your favorite dishes are likely to be ruined by the surface of your skillet. But it is irreplaceable in your kitchen, especially if you enjoy cooking.
For this reason, you should learn how to clean a skillet to preserve it for as long as possible. Keep reading!
How to Clean a Skillet
A skillet is a type of pan used for cooking. It is usually made of cast iron or aluminum and has a smooth surface.
Over time, grease and burnt-on food can build up, making your skillet less effective. Fortunately, cleaning a skillet is easy.
Start cleaning it by removing any food debris or burnt-on bits. Use a stiff brush or a spatula to scrape away any stubborn bits.
The Power of Elbow Grease
When cleaning your skillet, a little elbow grease can go a long way. Start by scrubbing the skillet with hot, soapy water and a stiff brush.
If there are any stubborn bits of food, use a non-abrasive scrubber to remove them. Rinse the skillet well and dry it with a clean towel.
If your skillet is dull, add a small amount of vegetable oil. Buff it with a paper towel to restore the shine.
The Hot Water Method
Hot water is all you need if your skillet is lightly soiled. Fill the pan with water and bring it to a boil.
Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the dirt. Empty the water and scrub the pan with a sponge or brush.
If you’re dealing with stuck-on food, you can add a little dish soap to the water. Rinse it well.
Soak the pan in hot water overnight for a stubborn mess. Then you can scrub it clean.
The Vinegar and Baking Soda Method
To clean a skillet using the vinegar and baking soda method, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/4 cup of vinegar and 1/4 cup of water. Next, generously sprinkle the mixture over the entire surface of the skillet.
Then, using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth, scrub the mixture into the skillet in a circular motion. Finally, rinse the skillet with hot water and dry it with a clean towel.
Reseason Your Skillet
Though you can clean a skillet with soap and water, it is necessary to reseason it after each cleaning. Reseasoning a skillet helps to create a nonstick surface and prevents the skillet from rusting.
The process is straightforward. Just rub vegetable oil all over the skillet, then heat it in the oven for an hour. After reseasoning, your skillet is ready to use.
If your skillet is starting to look a little worse for wear, it might be time to replace it. We recommend Barebones skillet. It has a good blend of steel and iron, can handle rapid temperature changes, and will not easily crack or break.
Have a Shiny and Spotless Skillet!
Following a few simple steps is essential to have a clean and well-seasoned skillet. First, wash the skillet in hot, soapy water. Next, rinse the skillet and dry it with a clean towel.
Finally, heat the skillet over low heat to help remove any water that may be left on the skillet. Season the skillet with oil and salt, and then use it as usual.
Now you know how to clean a skillet! Check out some skillet recipes on our website!
