Nana’s Easy Trick for Cleaning Burnt Pots and Pans

The Problem with Burnt Cookware

Burnt food is every cook’s nightmare. Once it sticks, scrubbing feels endless, and harsh cleaning can ruin your pans—especially non-stick ones. Over time, this buildup hurts both performance and appearance.

The Secret Ingredient

The solution is simple: baking soda. Mild yet effective, it works as a gentle abrasive and natural cleaner. When heated with water, it forms a paste that lifts stubborn food without damaging your cookware.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

  1. Fill the burnt pan with water until the residue is covered.

  2. Add 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda.

  3. Place the pan on the stove and bring it to a gentle boil.

  4. Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes.

  5. Turn off the heat and cool slightly.

  6. Use a soft sponge to scrub away the loosened food.

  7. Rinse with warm water and dry completely.

Why This Works Better

This method combines heat and baking soda’s natural power. The heat loosens the burnt-on food, while baking soda gently lifts it away. No harsh scrubbing, no scratches—just clean pans in less time.

Extra Care Tips

  • Use wooden or silicone utensils on non-stick surfaces.

  • Season cast iron regularly.

  • Always dry cookware before storing to prevent rust.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don’t crank up the heat too high or the water will evaporate before it works.

  • Skip steel wool and abrasive pads—they’ll scratch your pans.

  • Stick with gentle tools for best results.

Real Success Stories

Plenty of people swear by this trick. Sarah, a mom of three, said, “I was skeptical, but my pans look brand new!” John, an amateur chef, added, “Cleaning was always the worst part of cooking—now it’s simple.”

Clean Cookware, Minimal Effort

With baking soda and heat, you can rescue burnt pots and pans without stress. This trick protects your cookware, saves time, and keeps your kitchen routine simple. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to endless scrubbing.

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