Stainless steel cookware is a good investment for your kitchen. This type of material can last for many years if proper care is taken. If you have just purchased this cookware, you should learn how to clean stainless steel pots and pans to preserve their quality.

Many homeowners rely on stainless steel clad cookware for durability. These products may be a bit expensive, but they are also long lasting. Stainless steel does not react with any food cooked in it. In addition, it is easy to clean and resistant to dents and scratches.

Pots and pans are subjected to heat, sauces and other elements that can leave damage or stains. The key to easy cleaning is cleaning thoroughly after every use. If you allow food particles to buildup over time, your cookware will require some serious scrubbing and cleaning. To avoid this, make a habit of cleaning immediately after every use.

1. Regular cleaning of stainless steel pots and pans is easy to do. You can use any mild soap and foam to clean your cookware. For possible stains, especially on the bottom of the pan, you can use a scorching pad to scrub away stains.

2. Refrain from cleaning your pans in the dishwasher. Manual cleaning allows you to be more thorough with tough stains. In addition, frequent dishwashing will reduce the quality of the pans and pots.

3. Dry your pans by wiping them with a clean towel. Air-drying can sometimes leave water spots, so it is best to towel dry them right away. If you spy water spots, pour some club soda in the pan. Rinse and wipe it dry.

4. The most common stains that will plague your pots and pans are burn marks. One way or another, there will be discolorations from the heat. Serious burns will appear if you leave your cookware on the burner for too long. Pat any burned pots and pans dry then apply baking soda. Allow the baking soda to sit for a few minutes and then rub it off with a sponge.

5. When the serious burns won’t come off with baking soda, heat it up with water. Make sure that the burned area is covered with water. Bring the water to a boil then add a several tablespoons of salt. Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to sit for a few hours. When ready to clean, pour out the water and scrub using a scouring pad.

6. For any food build up or crusts that formed while cooking, soak you pots and pans immediately in soap and water. Afterwards, pour out the water and soap and start scrubbing the dirt away using a scouring pad.

7. Stainless steel pots and pans will look good over time if you can keep them looking shiny and new. You can use vinegar, lemon or cream of tartar to maintain a polished look. Simply put any of the three ingredients in the pan and wipe it out with cloth.

8. Vinegar is also a good cleaning agent. For stains and burns, pour in a cup or two of vinegar and let it boil. Turn off the heat and scrub away the dirt. You can also soak the dirt in vinegar then scrub afterward.

9. You can also use nonabrasive cleaners in cooking your pots and pans. Various brands in the market will remove stains. Do not use chlorine bleach or any cleaner with ammonia.

10. Do not use metal scouring pads or steel wool pad. They will leave permanent damage in the pots and pans. Use nylon scouring pads or even scotch bright. You can also opt to use plastic brushes.

Taking good care of your kitchen cookware is a good way of ensuring long lasting quality. Follow these easy tips on how to clean stainless steel pots and pans and they will look good as new for years to come.