Stainless steel doesn't chip, scratch or warp easily, making it relatively easy to look after. However, it's still possible to damage even the sturdiest stainless steel frying pan, especially if you accidentally use unsuitable utensils.
To keep your stainless steel pan set in tip-top condition, we'd recommend that you:
Cool the pan first
Always allow your pan to cool down before washing it. Placing a hot pan under cold water could cause it to warp in a reaction known as thermal shock. If you need to wash a still-hot pan, just make sure to use warm or hot water.
If you're struggling to clean any stubborn marks, it could be worth soaking your pan first. Add a mild detergent to warm water and leave your pan to soak for a few hours before softly scrubbing it.
Cook on a medium heat
Ready and raring to go with your new set of stainless steel pots and pans? Before you get stuck in with your all-time favourite recipes, just remember not to turn the heat up too high straight away. Even if you're in a hurry to boil pasta with a clever Made to Last set with built in straining lids, choosing a medium setting will release heat more easily from the surface, reducing the chances of food sticking.
Use soft utensils
Stainless steel is a sturdy, scratch-resistant material, but you can still help to preserve it by choosing your utensils carefully. We suggest using wooden spoons and spatulas over metal ones, primarily to avoid scratching the surface of your new pan.
Alternatively, silicone utensils offer improved flexibility to help you to reach all the nooks and crannies in your pan. Luckily, it's easy to find the best spatulas online to help you to make the most of your new stainless steel cookware.
Dry your pans quickly
Even though it's safe to soak dirty pans for a short while, unsightly water spots can appear after prolonged exposure to oxygen in water. To keep your stainless steel pans pristine, dry your pan as soon as you've finished washing it. To remove white spots, try adding a small amount of baking soda before scrubbing gently with a sponge.