How To Clean Burnt Pots And Pants With Epsom Salt
Burnt pans happen to the best of us. Whether it’s a forgotten pot on the stove or a sauce that cooked a little too long, that black, stuck-on mess can feel impossible to clean. Instead of scrubbing endlessly or tossing the pan altogether, there’s a strange household item that can help: Epsom salt. It’s affordable, easy to find, and surprisingly effective for cleaning burnt cookware. Here’s how it works.
Why It Works
Epsom salt is made of magnesium sulfate, which has a gritty texture that helps scrub off stuck-on food without scratching your pans. When mixed with water or vinegar, it becomes even more powerful. Unlike steel wool or harsh chemicals, Epsom salt is gentle enough for most surfaces but tough enough to break down burned bits. It’s a natural alternative that many people already have at home.
How To Use It
Start by adding a few tablespoons of Epsom salt directly into the burnt pan. Pour in just enough warm water to cover the base, then let it soak for about 15 minutes. After that, grab a sponge or soft scrubber and work in circles. The salt should loosen the charred residue, making it easier to wipe away. For tougher spots, let it sit longer or heat the pan slightly on the stove before scrubbing.
Works Best on Certain Materials
Epsom salt works best on stainless steel and enameled cookware. These surfaces can handle the grit without suffering damage. If you’re using non-stick pans, be careful, as scrubbing too hard will wear down the coating. Always test a small area first if you’re unsure. Avoid using it on cast iron unless you plan to re-season afterward, as it can strip away the seasoning layer.
Combine It
You can boost Epsom salt’s cleaning power by pairing it with white vinegar or lemon juice. They add some acidity, which helps break down burnt food even faster. Baking soda is another option, but use it sparingly. When mixing cleaners, always stick to safe combos. Don’t mix Epsom salt with bleach or anything reactive. Stick to natural ingredients, and rinse your cookware thoroughly when done.
When It’s Not Enough on Its Own
Sometimes, the burn is too deep or the pan has just seen better days. If Epsom salt doesn’t work after a few tries, it may be time to move on to something stronger or replace the pan altogether. You can try boiling water and vinegar in the pan before using the salt, but if the surface is badly damaged or peeling, especially in non-stick pans, cleaning won’t fix it. No one wants to throw cookware away, but it’s better than cooking on something unsafe!
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Burnt pans aren’t a lost cause. With just a few spoonfuls of Epsom salt and a little patience, you can bring them back to life! It’s a simple, affordable method that’ll help your pots and pans last years longer. The next time you’re dealing with a scorched pot, try reaching for that bag of Epsom salt in your bathroom cabinet. You might be surprised at how well it works.
Daniel Mitchell
