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How to Clean a Scorched Pot

By Betty Crocker Kitchens
Created December 10, 2024
A cluttered collection of metal pots and pans stacked on a wire rack.
Have you ever found yourself puzzled on how to clean a scorched pot after a small cooking mishap? Don't fret; even the most stubborn burnt residues can be tackled with the right techniques. Learn the home remedies to stronger cleaners for getting these tough jobs done.

We’ve all been there—distracted by a recipe or a phone call, only to realize too late that your favorite pot is coated with a stubborn, burnt layer. But here’s good news: Your scorched pot isn't a lost cause. In true Betty Crocker fashion, we've gathered foolproof methods that will help you restore your cookware. 

Assess the Burnt Pot Situation

Before jumping into any cleaning routine, it’s important to size up the situation. Is it a light scorch, or are you dealing with a thick crust of burnt food? Depending on the severity, the method you choose will vary. But don't worry, we've got solutions for every level of scorch.

For light burns, simple soaking may do the trick. For more stubborn burns, you’ll need a combination of elbow grease and a bit of chemistry—think baking soda and vinegar. Always make sure to let the pot cool down and use oven mitts to avoid burns when handling recently heated cookware.

Method 1: The Simple Soak

The easiest and gentlest solution for light burns is to soak the pot in hot water. This softens the burnt food and makes cleaning a breeze.

  1. Prepare hot soapy water: Once the pot is cool enough to handle, fill it with hot—not boiling—water and a few drops of dish soap to help break down residue.
  2. Let it sit: Allow the pot to soak for 30 minutes to loosen the burnt-on food. For more stubborn messes, extend the soak time up to an hour or more.
  3. Scrub gently: Use a soft sponge or wooden spatula to remove the softened food, taking care not to damage the pot's surface.

Pro Tip: If you're cleaning nonstick cookware, avoid using abrasive scrubbers or metal utensils that could scratch the delicate coating. A silicone or soft-bristled sponge will work best.

Method 2: Baking Soda and Vinegar

For tougher messes, you can rely on the magic of baking soda and vinegar—both natural, food-safe cleaning agents that won’t introduce harsh chemicals into your kitchen.

  1. Sprinkle baking soda: Sprinkle a liberal amount of baking soda over the scorched area.
  2. Add white vinegar: Pour a small amount of white vinegar over the baking soda. The fizzy reaction will help break up the burnt food.
  3. Heat gently for difficult burns: If necessary, add water and bring the pot to a simmer for 10-15 minutes. This method is ideal for cookware that can withstand heat, like stainless steel.
  4. Scrub away: Let the pot cool slightly, then use a soft sponge to scrub the softened residue.

Method 3: Scrub with Salt

For those who prefer an all-natural approach, salt can be an effective abrasive cleaner. This works well for stuck-on food without introducing any chemicals into the mix. This method is especially handy for seasoned cookware like cast iron, where you might want to avoid using commercial cleaning agents.

  1. Dampen the pot and sprinkle salt: After wetting the surface, sprinkle coarse kosher salt onto the scorched areas.
  2. Scrub gently: Use a sponge or cloth to scrub in circular motions, loosening the burnt food bit by bit.
  3. Rinse and repeat if necessary: Once the food has been removed, rinse thoroughly to wash away the salt and any lingering debris.

Method 4: Commercial Cleaners for the Toughest Scorches

Sometimes, even your best efforts need a little extra help. For particularly stubborn burns, commercial cookware cleaners can come to the rescue. Be sure to choose food-safe options that meet FDA and EPA standards, avoiding any harsh chemicals that could leave toxic residues. Keep in mind that frequent use of harsh cleaners can wear down your cookware over time, so use them sparingly.

  1. Follow label instructions: Use the cleaner as directed, ensuring the area is well-ventilated. Different pans (e.g., stainless steel, nonstick) may require specific treatments, so read carefully.
  2. Thoroughly rinse: After using a commercial cleaner, it’s vital to thoroughly rinse the pot to remove any traces of the cleaner before cooking with it again.

 Knowing When It’s Time to Replace Your Cookware

No matter how diligently you clean, pans will still reach the end of their lifespan. If your pot has a scorch that affects the cooking ability, shows deep scratches, flakes of nonstick coating, or signs of warping, it's probably time to say goodbye. Continuing to use compromised cookware can pose health risks and according to FDA recommendations, it’s best to replace visibly damaged cookware to avoid potential contamination.

Now that your pot is gleaming and ready for action, why not dive into a homemade favorite? Try Betty Crocker's One-Pot Lemon-Pepper Chicken Pasta, a perfect way to put your cleaned cookware back to good use.

Cleaning a scorched pot doesn’t have to be a stressful chore—we assume it’s part of every cook’s learning journey. Whether you’re facing a small scorch or a tough burnt crust, these tried-and-true methods will help you tackle the mess with confidence. Rest assured that with the right approach, your cookware will continue to support your culinary adventures for years to come.