July 9, 2025

Burnt stainless steel pan: how to fix it?

July 9, 2025

Did you forget your dish on the stove? The result: a nice black crust at the bottom of your brand new stainless steel pan?

Don't panic.

A burnt stainless steel pan can be easily salvaged. Here are simple, tried-and-tested methods to restore its shine — without scrubbing for 3 hours.

Why does stainless steel turn black or become sticky?

Unlike coated pans, stainless steel hides nothing :

It reacts strongly to high temperatures (which is normal).
Cooking for too long or at too high a temperature can leave brownish or black residues (burnt sugar, starch, proteins).
Stainless steel may also show water spots or a rainbow effect , without impacting cooking.

The good news: everything can be cleaned without damaging the stainless steel.

Method 1: Bicarbonate + hot water (ultra simple)

This is the gentlest method, but very effective for light to medium burns.

Steps:

Pour a little hot water into the pan.
Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of baking soda .
Heat gently for a few minutes.
Remove from heat, let it rest.
Scrape with a wooden spatula or a soft sponge → the residue will come off by itself.

✅ Suitable for regular use
❌ Not very effective for deeply ingrained burns

Method 2: White vinegar + baking soda (magic reaction)

Perfect for a nicely charred pan.

Steps:

Cover the bottom of the pan with white vinegar .
Heat until it just begins to boil.
Remove from heat and add 1 tablespoon of bicarbonate .
Leave for 10 to 15 minutes (it foams, that's normal!).
Scrape off the residue with a non-abrasive sponge.

✅ Powerful descaling effect
✅ Also neutralizes odors
❌ Be careful of splashes during the reaction

Method 3: Homemade cleaning paste

Use this method if the first two methods were insufficient.

Ingredients :

2 tablespoons of baking soda
A few drops of water
1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid

Steps:

Mix together to form a paste.
Apply to burned areas.
Leave on for 15 to 30 minutes.
Scrub with a soft brush or microfiber sponge .

✅ Economical and natural
❌ Requires a little patience

❌ Absolutely avoid

A metallic sponge like a green scouring pad or steel wool : it scratches.
Aggressive chemicals : unnecessary with stainless steel and bad for the environment.
Bleach : dangerous and ineffective on food burns.

And then what? Take care of your stainless steel pan so it stays like new.

Do not allow residue to dry: clean immediately after use .
To revive the shine: rub occasionally with white vinegar.
Always dry your pan after washing to avoid water stains.

SAINE stainless steel pans: beautiful, sturdy, and easy to clean

Our stainless steel pans are made from high-quality 18/10 stainless steel , with a triple-layer base for even and controlled cooking.
And even if you burn them (it happens to everyone), you can easily recover them with the tips above.

👉 Discover the collection here:
🔗 Our durable & healthy stainless steel pans

Quick FAQ

Is a burnt stainless steel pan ruined?
No. Stainless steel is virtually indestructible if you use the right products.

Can I put my stainless steel pan in the dishwasher?
Yes, but hand washing prolongs its shine. And for burns, a good soak in baking soda is best.

Why is the inside of my pan turning rainbow?
It's a normal reaction between the minerals in the water and the stainless steel. It's not harmful to your health or your cooking. A splash of vinegar, and it's gone!