Caring for Your Non-Stick Skillets

You’ll be spending a lot of time with your non-stick skillets, so treat ‘em right and they’ll last a lot longer.

Try these Tips

• Read and follow the directions that come with your cookware before you use them. Some manufacturers of non-stick cookware recommend a seasoning step before you first use them.
   
• Don’t use metal utensils that will damage the finish; use wood, plastic or silicone ones. Don’t cut food in the pan. Don’t store food in the pan.
   
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding cooking heat. Most nonstick cookware is made for low- and medium-heat cooking. Too high a heat can damage the surface and cause pans to warp. A warped pan cooks unevenly.
   
• Don’t put a hot nonstick pan into cold or lukewarm water because the rapid temperature change could cause the pan to warp. Wash your nonstick pans by hand with soft sponges or cleaning cloths. Improperly cleaning (e.g., washing the pan in the dishwasher, scouring pads, abrasive cleaners, etc.) may damage your pan and could void a manufacturer’s warranty. Dry them completely before storing.
   
• Store your nonstick pans carefully. Put a paper plate or paper towels between pans when stacking them to avoid scratches.
   
• When in doubt, consult with the manufacturer’s website. Many companies may have a section on care-information or a frequently asked questions section that can be a useful resource.