How to clean a stainless steel frying pan without damaging it?

For everyday maintenance, there's no need to look for anything complicated.

Hot water, a little washing-up liquid and a soft sponge are all you need. Rub gently to remove residues, then rinse.

Then take the time to wipe the pan with a clean cloth. This avoids water marks and scale deposits, which are very visible on stainless steel.

If you're in a hurry, most uncoated stainless steel pans are dishwasher-safe. But to preserve their shine, hand-washing remains the best option.

Ideally, clean your frying pan immediately after use.

Run it under hot water, rub lightly to loosen cooking residues, then wipe dry. The longer you wait, the more residues dry out and become difficult to remove.

A quick clean saves a lot of effort later on.

When cleaning a stainless steel frying pan, there are a few things you should avoid.

Avoid :

• steel wool
• abrasive sponges
• aggressive or chemical cleaning products

These can scratch the surface and dull stainless steel. Always use a soft sponge or cotton cloth.

This is an often overlooked point.

Never pour cold water into a hot stainless steel pan. This thermal shock can deform the bottom of the pan and shorten its life.

Let it cool for a few moments before cleaning. This simple gesture will preserve the quality of your utensil.

If food has stuck or burned, there's no need to scrub too hard.

Start by filling the pan with hot water and a drop of washing-up liquid. Heat for a few minutes. The heat will soften the residue.

Then gently loosen them with a wooden or plastic spatula or spoon. Avoid metal utensils, which may scratch the surface.

If the marks persist, vinegar can help.

Pour a mixture of water and white vinegar into the pan, at a ratio of three parts water to one part vinegar. Bring to the boil, then leave for a few minutes.

Scrub with a sponge or soft brush, then rinse thoroughly to remove any vinegar odour.

Another simple solution: baking soda.

Sprinkle one or two tablespoons of baking soda over burnt areas, then moisten lightly to form a paste. Leave for a few minutes.

You can even heat the pan slightly to speed up the action. Rub gently, then rinse thoroughly.

For everyday maintenance, hot water and washing-up liquid are all you need. For more stubborn residues, heat, vinegar or bicarbonate are simple and effective solutions.

By avoiding aggressive products, abrasive sponges and thermal shock, you'll keep your stove clean, shiny and in good condition for many years to come.