How to Use and Care for Nonstick Cookware

There are many benefits to using non-stick cookware – it allows food to be removed from the pan easily, it is easy to clean, and it is useful for people who are concerned about their fat intake, as food can be cooked with less oil. However, it is crucial to properly maintain your nonstick cookware to ensure it lasts beyond a year or two.

Nonstick cookware is usually aluminum or stainless steel with a smooth coating on the inside to create a smooth, nonstick surface that prevents food from sticking to the pan. If scratches or chips appear on the nonstick surface, it's time to replace the cookware.

Cook with nonstick utensils

Using nonstick cookware in the following ways can help keep your cookware looking its best:

• It is recommended to coat the cooking surface with a light coat of oil before using nonstick cookware for the first time, this will condition and protect the surface.
• Do not preheat an empty pan. Nonstick cookware is usually made of aluminum, which heats up faster than heavier, denser stainless steel. Start with a little oil in the pan (enough to lightly coat the surface), then preheat for a few seconds before adding food.
• Use oils like vegetable oil or grapeseed oil instead of nonstick cooking spray. Nonstick sprays contain lecithin, which eventually makes nonstick surfaces sticky.
• Use only low or medium heat on nonstick cookware . Higher heat can degrade the surface of the cookware and there is a chance of burning the cookware.
• Avoid using metal utensils on nonstick cookware . Instead, use wooden spoons, nylon, plastic, or silicone-coated utensils. This will prevent the surface from being scratched.

Caring for Nonstick Cookware

With proper care, nonstick cookware should last three years or more.

• Use a soft rag or non-abrasive sponge to clean cookware with dish soap and warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or other rough, rough surfaces for cleaning.
• Stubborn food can be removed with a mixture of baking soda and water or a non-abrasive cleaner.
• Do not stack nonstick cookware as this can scratch or chip the cooking surface. If you do need to stack cookware due to space constraints, place a layer of paper towels between each pan.