Cleaning Teflon Surfaces

Teflon covering, which is the nonstick part of nonstick pots and pans, are one of the more popular choices among cookware in the United States. After all, this stuff is supposed to be long lasting, easy to clean, and easy to maintain. However, if the proper steps aren't taken when cleaning Teflon surfaces you can easily find yourself damaging your pots and pans.

1. Degrease the item. Considering that greasy pots and pans are some of the most difficult to clean, even with a Teflon coating, it only makes sense that you should learn how to handle this mess. The easiest way is by pouring 1/2 cup of white vinegar into the pot or pan, and then filling up the rest of the item with water. Bring the mixture to a boil for about five minutes, and then dump it all out into the sink. This will remove most of the grease from the pan as well as prepare it for you to clean.
2. Wash and scrub. Wash your pot or pan as you normally would, using some warm water and your favorite degreasing soap. The degreasing soap will help you to remove any lingering grease, and as long as the water isn't too hot you should have an easy time of getting everything clean. When you do wash the pot or pan, use a nylon scrubbie to help you out. If you use things like Brillo pads, or similar cleaning pads, you may end up scratching and damaging the surface.
3. Rinse. Use some warm water, and rinse off the soap residue and any other items that may be stuck on the pot or pan. As you do this, you may want to also "scrub" the item with a washcloth to help you out.
4. Inspect. Once you have finished rinsing off the pot, pan, or skillet, you may want to inspect your work. This will allow you to ensure that you have completely removed all traces of old dirt, grim, or food products that may have been stuck on it. If you haven't removed everything, then you may need to repeat the cleaning process again. In fact, repeat the process as many times as necessary to ensure that you get your Teflon pot, pan, or skillet nice and clean.

As you can see, if you followed the directions carefully you will be able to get your Teflon surfaces nice and clean. Just remember that you need to be careful, or you will find yourself needing new pots and pans. Best of all, most of what you need to clean your Teflon surfaces you should already have in the house.