Just like other utensils, enameled cookware can discolor and stain over time. While the discolored surface can sometimes be boiled away if it persists, you can remove it using products that are already available. By using basic methods and everyday household items, you’ll see your enameled cookware look new again.
While discolored enameled cookware is relatively easy to clean, food can burn and damage the surface thus causing exposed iron to rust. To get rid of the stain without causing further damage, use mildly abrasive cleaner and household products. Here are some easy steps to help you clean discolored enameled cookware.
What to Clean Enamel Cookware With
- Baking soda
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Warm water
- Abrasive cleaners
- Laundry detergent
Boil Water in Your Enameled Cookware
To speed up the process of cleaning a discolored surface, start by boiling water inside the cookware. You only need enough water to cover the surface and allow for evaporation when boiling. While this method is effective with food stains, it may not work well with rust. Its main work is to eliminate the need for an overnight soak. This will also help you in cleaning enamel roasting pan.
Add Baking Soda
When it comes to cleaning discolored enameled cookware, baking powder is the way to go. Although it requires some effort on your side, it will work better than other household products. Once the water is boiled, add a tablespoon or two of baking soda. If the stain does not come off soon use a thick paste and apply it across the surface. Although baking soda is mildly abrasive, it will only help scrape away the stain.
Scrub Lemon Juice into the Stain
Next, you need to use as much table salt as possible to cover the stain on the cookware. Cut the lemon and then squeeze the juice over the salt to soak the stain. Continue squeezing the lemon until you’ve covered the stain and made a paste over it. Using a cloth or sponge, scrub the lemon and salt mixture and then watch if the stain is coming out.
Rinse the Surface with Warm Water
Once the stain starts coming out, rinse the discolored surface with warm water. Finally, wipe away the remaining residue and then dry the surface with a clean dry towel.
If the stain persists, you can add more lemon juice and salt. Allow it to sit for hours before scrubbing the stain with a cloth until it’s removed. This is one of the best ways to remove stains from the enamel.
Other Methods
Using Abrasive Cleaners
Apart from baking soda, you can use abrasive cleaners. However, you need to pay attention to the ones you choose. While some come in cream foam, others are in the form of powder. Make sure you avoid the ones that are highly acidic or overly aggressive as they can affect the color or the cookware. Once you get the product just apply it to the discolored surface and use a wet cloth to scrub it until it’s clean. Finally, wash the surface carefully with warm water and soap to avoid any residue remaining.
Laundry Detergent
Another unconventional trick that you can use is adding laundry detergent. First, you need to scrape off all the food residue before filling the cookware with water. Wait until the water boils then add a tablespoon of laundry detergent. Let the mixture boil for a couple of minutes before washing it the way you do every day. This will make the stains come off automatically. You can also use laundry detergent to clean vintage enamel.
How to Restore Discolored Enamel Cookware
To keep your enamel cookware in the best condition, make sure you wash it immediately after use with warm water and mild dish soap. This will not only restore the discolored enamel cookware but also prevent any residue from sticking. Doing this will also prevent you from scraping or scrubbing too much thus keeping the surface smooth. More so, coating the cooking surface with cooking spray, a small amount of oil and butter before cooking will help prevent food from sticking.
How to Get the Stains Out of Le Creuset Enamel
To do this, you need to boil water to a very gently simple in the oven with either a baking soda or a small amount of mild dish soap. Next, allow the water to cool before scrubbing and rinsing. For any dulling of the enamel cookware, cast iron cleaner will work wonders. To remove any residue, rinse it before wiping it with a dry towel.
Check this too: How to Clean a Burnt Copper Bottom Pan
For any stubborn stains, fill the cookware with hot soapy water and allow it to soak before scrubbing with a pad or nylon brush. You can also soak it with a bleach-containing one teaspoon of bleach per pint of water.
Summary
One thing you’ll love about enameled cookware is how it feels. Coming in different colors, you’ll fall in love with these elegant pans. This is the more reason why you should avoid discoloration and stains on your enamel cookware. The key to maintaining them well is to handle them carefully. Thankfully, this article has everything you need to clean your discolored enameled cookware and restore it back to its original condition.