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Weeknight Cooking
What's the Best Way to Keep My Nonstick Skillet Nonstick?
Nonstick skillets are great . . . until they aren't. Here's how to take care of yours.
By Published Aug. 5, 2019
Skillets with nonstick surfaces far outsell traditional skillets. We love them for how easy they are to use and clean. Inevitably, however, they lose their nonstick properties over time; unlike cast-iron skillets, nonstick skillets won’t last forever. Still, there are a few ways to extend your skillet’s life.
1. Take care not to scratch the surface. Nonstick surfaces have gotten much more durable over the years, but we still recommend using a rubber, silicone, plastic, or wood utensil rather than a metal one when working with a nonstick skillet.
2. Store it carefully. If you can avoid stacking anything on top of your skillet, avoid it. If you must stack, slip something (such as a paper plate) between your items to reduce the possibility of scratching.
3. Clean it gently. Don’t use an abrasive sponge, which can create tiny scratches, and avoid harsh cleaners such as Bar Keepers Friend, Comet, or Ajax. And don’t stick it in the dishwasher, no matter what your instructions say. Use a soft, soapy sponge and rinse it well.
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