Prevent pan scratches! The essential guide to keeping your pans looking like new.

Maryal Miller Carter, USA TODAY
·2 min read

Are you tired of scratches ruining your beloved pans? Do you cringe at the thought of toxic, nonstick coating flaking off into your food? If so, you're not alone. Scratched pans have been the bane of home cooks' lives for generations. Fortunately, we have the insider tips you need to keep your pans scratch-free indefinitely!

From choosing the proper utensils to exploring long-lasting, durable cookware options, we're sharing some of the tricks the pros use to maintain pristine cookware effortlessly. Here's how to bid farewell to those pesky pan scratches and preserve your cookware's longevity.

Watch the video above to learn how to prevent scratches on pans and ensure their longevity.

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How to prevent pan scratches

  • Choose the right utensils:

    • Opt for sturdy, silicone-coated utensils specifically designed for nonstick cookware.

    • Silicone utensils are gentle on surfaces and can withstand high heat without scratching.

    • Avoid metal utensils because they can scratch the surface of nonstick cookware, leading to damage and degradation over time.

  • Use nonabrasive cleaning tools and techniques:

    • Avoid harsh scrubbers or abrasive cleaners that can damage the pan's surface.

    • Opt for soft sponges or cloths and gentle cleaning solutions to preserve the integrity of the pan.

    • Utilize the power of hot water for stubborn, stuck-on messes as it helps to loosen and dissolve residue without the need for harsh scrubbing, thereby protecting the pan's surface.

  • Consider durable cookware options:

    • Invest in durable, nontoxic cookware materials like cast iron skillets.

    • Cast iron skillets offer excellent cooking results and can be cleaned without soap. Regular seasoning helps maintain their nonstick properties.

    • The seasoning layer also acts as a protective barrier against rust and corrosion, prolonging the lifespan of the cookware.

  • Explore versatile cookware materials:

    • Stainless steel cookware provides versatility and durability.

    • While stainless steel requires a learning curve for cooking, it is scratch-resistant and easy to clean.

  • Invest in quality cookware sets:

    • Choose a high-quality, long-lasting cookware set over cheaper alternatives.

    • Quality cookware sets, correctly maintained, can last a lifetime, providing value and performance in the kitchen.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How do you keep pans from scratching? A step by step guide