Restore aluminum cookware to its original luster with these cleaning tips.
Erica is a former editorial assistant for Martha Stewart Living. Small Aluminum Pans
While built-up grease and grime can wreak havoc on any pan, aluminum cookware can feel especially impossible to clean once it becomes dirty. If you have a pan that seems like it's permanently blackened, it's likely you just haven't found the right cleaning method yet. Certain cleaning supplies and techniques can actually make aluminum appear even more discolored. But luckily, the darkening usually isn't permanent. With the right cleaning materials, you'll be able to bring back your aluminum cookware's original luster in no time.
Aluminum cookware can become blackened from misuse, or if it's not cared for or cleaned properly.
Prolonged exposure to high heat can cause aluminum pans to discolor and blacken. "This can happen when cooking at very high temperatures (especially if the pan is empty or contains a small amount of oil or food)," says Alicia Sokolowski, the president and co-CEO of AspenClean. "The surface of the aluminum will oxidize and turn dark."
If food or oils are burned onto the pan's surface, they can create blackened areas. "This can be very problematic with nonstick aluminum pans, where burnt-on residues can be challenging, especially if you want to remove them without damaging the nonstick coating."
Aluminum can react with certain acidic or alkaline ingredients, which will cause discoloration. "For example, cooking tomatoes or sour sauces in an aluminum pan can lead to a darkening of the aluminum surface," says Sokolowski.
Not drying a pan properly after cleaning it with hard water can cause mineral deposits to build up on the pan's surface and cause discoloration, says Sokolowski. Additionally, cleaning aluminum cookware in the dishwasher can also damage it. "The combination of alkaline dishwasher detergent, high heat, and minerals in your water can trigger a reaction that darkens the metal," says Jennie Varney, brand manager for Molly Maid.
Make sure you have these materials on hand when cleaning an aluminum pan.
Before cleaning your aluminum cookware, make sure it has completely cooled down. "Cleaning hot cookware can be dangerous and less effective," says Sokolowski.
If your aluminum pans have become blackened or accumulated with grime, you may need to use more abrasive cleaning materials beyond dish soap.
When mixed with water, baking soda forms a paste that effectively restores aluminum cookware to its former glory.
The coarseness of salt is effective at removing built-up food debris from aluminum cookware.
Aluminium Cutting Disc 115mm Ensure your aluminum cookware stays in peak condition by knowing how to care for it properly.