How to Clean a Nonstick Pan (and Make It Last Longer)

A nonstick pan is the easiest pan in your kitchen to cook with - and the easiest to ruin. The good news: cleaning it the right way takes seconds and can double or triple how long it lasts. Here is exactly how.

How to clean a nonstick pan after every use

1. Let it cool first. Never plunge a hot pan into cold water - the thermal shock warps the base and damages the coating.
2. Hand-wash with warm, soapy water. Use a soft sponge or dishcloth and a drop of mild dish soap.
3. Rinse and dry. Dry with a soft towel so no water spots or residue build up.

That is it for everyday cleaning. The whole point of nonstick is that food releases easily, so it rarely needs scrubbing.

How to remove stuck-on food

If something does cling on, do not reach for a scouring pad. Instead, simmer a cup of water (with a teaspoon of baking soda for tougher residue) in the pan for a few minutes, then let it cool and wipe clean with a soft sponge. The buildup lifts off without scratching the surface.

What NOT to do (this is what kills nonstick)

• Skip the dishwasher. Harsh detergents and high heat degrade the coating fast - hand-washing is always better.
• No metal utensils or abrasive scrubbers. Steel wool, scouring pads, and metal spatulas scratch the surface. Use wood or silicone.
• Avoid cooking sprays. Aerosol sprays leave a sticky residue that bakes on over time and ruins the release - use a little oil or butter instead.
• Do not stack pans bare. Stacking scratches the coating; place a pan protector or cloth between them.

How to make your nonstick pan last longer

• Cook on low to medium heat. High heat is the number-one killer of any nonstick coating. Nonstick is not made for searing - reach for cast iron or stainless steel when you need high heat.
• Use gentle utensils and store the pan carefully.
• Choose a PFAS-free pan so that even if it overheats, there are no forever chemicals to worry about.

Curious how long a well-cared-for pan should last? See how long nonstick cookware lasts.

When to replace it

Even with perfect care, nonstick is not forever. If the coating is scratched, flaking, or food sticks no matter what, it is time to replace it - especially an old, unlabeled pan that may contain PFAS.

Upgrade to a pan that is easy to keep

Alva's PFAS-free nonstick cookware is lab-tested free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, so it is safe and simple to maintain. Our pick is the Maestro Essentials 9-Piece Set, and you can compare options in our best nonstick pans guide. See how every pan is tested in our safety standards.