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How to Clean Baking Pans

Baking pans can almost become a member of the family. Everyone has their own favorite sizes, shapes, and preferred metal. Whether it is non-stick, aluminum, or aluminized steel you have to know how to clean baking pans so you won’t need to replace them. 

Keeping your baking pans clean and ready to use doesn’t mean you have to scrub for hours and create a big mess. With a few simple tools you probably already have in the kitchen you can have baking pans that will last for years. 

Pin image showing the title tips on how to clean baking pans easily

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Why do I need to clean baking pans properly?

Baking pans are very versatile partners in the kitchen. But when they are not cleaned properly, they can develop stubborn stains. Aside from being an eyesore, these can also affect the taste of your favorite recipes in the long run.

Tools for cleaning baking pans:

Knowing the right tools is essential in learning how to clean baking pans. It’s like getting yourself the proper armor before you get into the battle! Check out the links below for my most trusted companions in cleaning.

White Vinegar

Dawn Dish Detergent

Baking Soda

Non – Abrasive Scouring Pads

Washing Soda

Cream of Tartar

How to keep baking pans looking like new

If you invest in high quality pans and keep them clean and scorch free you will get many years of use out of them. Using parchment paper or aluminum foil liners before baking can prevent large messes and make pans easier to clean. 

Washing your baking pans immediately after you are done using them is a great way to keep them from getting stuck on build up. Be sure to let them cool before you start the washing process. It’s recommended that you dry your baking pans immediately after use to prevent them from rusting. 

Reading the manufacturer’s instructions before the first use is a great way to know exactly how to keep your baking pans clean. But if you’ve had your pans for many years or happened to buy them secondhand you can use a few handy tips to keep them clean. 

What can I use to clean baking pans?

Knowing what tools to utilize for your baking pan cleaning is essential in getting positive results. For instance, using scouring tools on non-stick pans won’t be ideal. Doing so scrapes the coating and permanently damages your pan.  

Person spraying cleaning agent on a baking pan surface

Cleaning baking pans with baking soda and water

Baking soda is an effective but gentle cleaning agent that won’t damage or discolor pans. If you have some handy, you can use it to clean your baking sheets. It is also ideal to use on aluminized steel or aluminum. 

  1. Mix baking soda with warm water to create a paste.
  2. Spread the paste on the cookie sheet and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  3. Use a nylon scrubber to wipe the stains off.
  4. Wash with clean water and dry.
One tablespoon of baking soda and a glass of water

How to clean baking pans with baked on grease 

Baking soda and vinegar make a powerful combo to combat tough stains on baking pans. This solution is a must-try especially when you are dealing with aluminum or steel pans. Aside from being readily available in your kitchen, these are highly-effective agents for cleaning.

  1. Mix baking soda and vinegar in a 1:1 ratio. 
  2. Spread the baking soda evenly across the tray and then pour the vinegar. 
  3. Fill your sink with hot water, and soak the pan for 30 minutes – 1 hour. 
  4. Remove the pan from the water and start scrubbing grime with the help of a non-abrasive tool.
  5. Utilize regular dishwashing soap and water to thoroughly cleanse before patting dry.

How to clean burnt food from pans

Cleaning baking pans with burnt food stains don’t always mean you have to do a lot of harsh scrubbing. You can try washing soda, a cleaning agent that removes grease buildup by softening it. Cream of tartar also helps to gently work on getting rid of the stains on your aluminum or aluminized steel pans. 

  1. Sprinkle cream of tartar and washing soda evenly onto the pan’s surface.
  2. Pour an adequate amount of water to create a paste-like texture and mix.
  3. Spread the mixture across the pan and leave it there for 15 minutes.
  4. Gently wipe burnt stains using non-abrasive pads or cloths.
  5. Wash the pan thoroughly with dishwashing soap and water to remove the paste and stains.
Baking soda powder to be sprinkled on top of a baking pan

More Essential Cleaning Tips

Quick and Easy Holiday Cleaning Tips – While the holidays can be fun, the mess with all the food prep may seem overwhelming. This article has got you covered with ways to stay stress-free during the holiday rush!

How To Clean Non Stick Cookie Sheets – Trying to figure out how to avoid scratching that cookie sheet coating? Learn how you can clean them up with ease and zero frustration! 

Cleaning Tips For The Kitchen – Looking for a general guide that covers tips and tricks to keep the kitchen tidy? This article sums up all that you need to know from nooks to surfaces!  

Hand scrubbing the baking pan with soap and water

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