Restoring a non-stick pan with salt is a simple and effective method to help remove stubborn food residue and stains without damaging the non-stick coating. Here's a step-by-step guide to do it:
Cool Down the Pan: Allow the non-stick pan to cool completely before attempting any cleaning or restoration.
Scrape Off Excess Food: Using a soft spatula or a wooden spoon, gently scrape off any excess food particles or debris from the pan.
Add Salt: Sprinkle a generous amount of table salt (coarse salt works best) to cover the bottom of the pan entirely. You can also use baking soda in combination with salt for an extra cleaning boost.
Heat the Pan: Place the pan back on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Let the salt heat up and start to absorb the residue and oils from the surface.
Swirl and Scrub: Once the salt is heated, use a folded paper towel or a soft cloth to swirl the salt around the pan gently. The salt will act as a mild abrasive to help lift off the stuck-on debris. You can also use a non-abrasive sponge if needed, but be gentle to avoid scratching the non-stick surface.
Cool Down and Rinse: Turn off the heat and allow the pan to cool down. Once it's cool, rinse the pan thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining salt and residue.
Inspect and Repeat: After rinsing, check the pan for any remaining stains or debris. If necessary, repeat the process until the pan is clean and the non-stick coating is restored.
Dry Thoroughly: Use a soft towel to dry the pan completely. Make sure there is no moisture left on the surface, as excess moisture can lead to rust or damage to the non-stick coating.
Please note that while this method is generally safe for most non-stick pans, it's essential to be gentle during the process to avoid scratching or damaging the coating. Additionally, if your pan has significant damage to the non-stick coating or the non-stick properties have significantly deteriorated, it may be time to consider replacing the pan as restoration may not be effective in those cases.