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Are Non Stick Pans Dishwasher-Friendly?
Most people need to realize they should not clean non stick pans in the dishwasher. I will cover this topic in detail below. Some Non-Stick Cookware is often advertised as “Dishwasher Safe,” which is true for those brands. Although, it heavily depends on the coating used in constructing the pans. In the case of MadeIn Cookware, Stainless Clad Cookware, they coat it using a completely non-toxic PTFE coating. They do this so that you can take advantage of Stainless Clad's performance and ease of use of Non Stick. Nonetheless, adding this coating changes how you care for your pans.
Best Non Stick Pan Dishwasher Safe
In the case of Sardel Cookware, according to the brand, it is labeled to be a dishwasher-safe nonstick pan, including the non stick skillets. The Sardel pans, 12″ Non-Stick Skillet, use PTFE Coating on non stick cookware. Before washing your pans, including stainless steel, allow the pan to cool down completely.
Adding cold water to any hot nonstick or stainless steel cookware can cause damage like warping. Always wait until your skillet is cool when you touch it before washing it.
*Tip: Sardel products and most stainless steel cookware items are labeled non stick pan dishwasher safe cookware. It is best to hand wash them to keep them in the best condition possible.
Why Cant You Put Non Stick Pans In The Dishwasher?
It's not recommended to clean PTFE coated pans in the dishwasher because traditional dishwasher detergents have harsh chemicals, solvents, and abrasives that may cause the pots or pans coating to break down and deteriorate, surprisingly, even after just one wash.
Plus, adding exposure to high heat and the high-pressure environment in dishwashers is why cleaning Non Stick Cookware is not recommended. It is recommended to clean your non stick cookware by hand with warm water, mild dish soap, and a non-abrasive sponge, a dishcloth. I use an all-natural dishwasher and all-natural dish soap. I don't put any cookware in the dishwasher, including non stick pans; I wash them by hand.
Pro Tip: Avoid using bleach, steel wool, and other abrasive household cleaners because they can scratch and cause damage to the finish of your cookware.
Risks of Putting Non Stick in the Dishwasher
What happens if you put your Non Stick pans in the dishwasher? The coating will likely start peeling away from the pan's surface. Although it can start peeling anywhere on the pan, it tends to start at the rim and expand inward. Peeling is the most common result of improper care in general, but it usually results from the harsh cleaning in the dishwasher.
Additionally, you may start to see some surface scratches and scuff marks. A dishwasher is somewhat chaotic due mainly to the high-pressure water that causes items to move. For example, if your pan is leaning against something like another plate, spoon, or pan, it's likely to damage the coating. Due to the sheer force, the water itself can leave unwanted marks on the coating.
Finally, you may also see some discoloration of the coating, which generally indicates that your coating has begun to break down – typically yellow, dark purple, blue, or rainbow tints. It usually occurs from extended exposure temperatures exceeding the maximum temperature recommended for your pan. However, in this case, it will result from the detergent's harsh ingredients taking their toll.
Related: Which is best to buy nonstick or stainless steel cookware?
How to Clean Non-Stick Cookware
Despite these possible pitfalls, Non Stick Cookware is relatively easy to clean. To clean your cookware, you need mild dish soap and a non-abrasive, Non-Stick-safe sponge for everyday cleaning. Generally, I recommend using all-natural dish soap, but if you don't use natural dish soap, use Dawn and a blue Scotch Brite, but you can use whatever you have on hand as long as the soap is mild and your sponge is Non Stick safe.
For tougher stuck food messes, you can make a cleaning paste of 2 parts baking soda into 1 part distilled vinegar or add a small amount of water and a few drops of Bar Keepers Friend powder to your pot or pan. Let the mixture sit for 30 seconds, and then use a sponge to clean it. Applying light to medium pressure, scrub your pan with the paste and a non-abrasive sponge. This combination of these natural products is excellent for your pan's interior and exterior. You can safely cook with stainless steel skillets without food sticking; learn how here.
For really caked or burnt-on, bring a cup of distilled vinegar to a simmer while gently stirring with a Wooden Spoon. This helps break down the mess and leaves your cookware clean and unmarred. Further, this can aid in clearing any staining on the coating from everyday use.
Related: Easy to Make Homemade Soap Bar Recipe
Washing A Hot Pot With Hot Water
The residue is easier to clean off, and using hot water will not warp pans or skillets. Wash your pots and pans with the “rough” side of your sponge under hot water while the pan is still hot to remove stuck food easily.
How To Wash Non Stick Pan First Time?
Before using any nonstick cookware for the first time, wash it first: use mild dish soap and hot water, rinse well, and dry completely with a paper towel or cloth. After washing it, the next step, called “preseasoning,”—rubbing the pot, skillet, or pan with a bit of oil using a disposable paper towel.
