How do you clean badly burned cast-iron pans and pots?

Sara Idenfors

Today, we’re sharing some simple tips for cleaning difficult-to-wash and badly burnt pans and pots, especially for those of you who have switched to old-fashioned cast-iron alternatives. 

Last edited on May 8, 2024

 




 

 

How to clean blackened pans and pots

More and more people have also abandoned non-stick and Teflon after numerous warnings about toxins being released from these coatings, in favor of old-fashioned cast iron. Those of you who use cast iron know that it can easily burn on and end up looking like the pan in the image above after frying chicken, as shown here. 

 


How to clean with Västerbottenssåpa

 

Here’s what to do:

1. Place the pan in the sink, take a dab of solid soap (we always use the original variety for washing pans) and a natural-material dish brush for pots and pans.

2. Add a little hot water and then scrub with the dish brush. This is easier than you think!

3. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.



Of course, you can stop here, BUT if you want the pan to last a long time, now do the following: 

 

Place the pan back on the stovetop, turn the heat to high, and add a few drops of neutral cooking oil. Remove the pan from the heat and quickly wipe the hot pan with a paper towel. The pan will not rust in the cupboard, nor will food burn on as easily during the next frying session.

My grandfather, who was a very wise man and a good cook (and the person who taught me how to make soap), always said: “When your first daughter gets married, the frying pan is ‘seasoned’ and ready to start being used.”

 
 

A pot containing, for example, badly burnt macaroni can be cleaned in the same way, but with pots it can sometimes be easier to do this:

1. Fill the pot with water

2. Add solid soap 

3. Stir vigorously, and scrape the bottom with a spoon if there is a lot of burnt food left.

4. Leave overnight, then wash out with a dish brush and more soap.

5. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

 

Good luck with your pans and pots!

 

//Sara Idenfors

 

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Questions and Answers

 

- Which tools and products are recommended for cleaning burnt pans and pots?

To clean burnt pans and pots, use a dab of solid soap and a natural-material dish brush. These are effective, natural tools for removing stubborn dirt.

 

- How should you use a dish brush to clean pans and pots?

Place the pan or pot in the sink, apply solid soap and hot water, then scrub with the brush. It’s easier than you might think!

 

- What is the recommended step for extending the pan’s lifespan and preventing future burning?

After cleaning the pan or pot, place it over high heat and add a few drops of neutral cooking oil. Then remove it from the heat and quickly wipe the hot pan or pot with a paper towel to prevent rust and future food from burning on.

 

- How can you clean a pot with burnt-on food residue?

Fill the pot with water, add solid soap, and stir vigorously. Leave it overnight, then wash out the pot with a dish brush and more soap before rinsing and drying it thoroughly.



Order natural cleaning products here: Västerbottenssåpa 

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