Don’t Throw It in the Trash: How to Make a Burnt Pot as Good as New

Don’t Throw It in the Trash: How to Make a Burnt Pot as Good as New (Page 2 ) | March 13, 2025

How to Clean a Burnt Pot:

Boiling Water and Baking Soda: A simple and effective method is to use baking soda and water. Fill the burnt pot with enough water to cover the burnt areas and add a couple of tablespoons of baking soda. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes. The heat will loosen the burnt food, and the baking soda will help break down the stains. Afterward, simply scrub with a non-abrasive sponge, and you’ll be surprised at how easily the burnt bits come off!
Vinegar and Baking Soda: If your pot is really stubborn, a combination of white vinegar and baking soda can work wonders. Pour a small amount of vinegar into the pot and sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over it. Let it bubble up and fizz for a minute or two. After it stops fizzing, fill the pot with water, bring it to a simmer, and let it sit for about 10–15 minutes. This creates a powerful cleaning solution that tackles even the most stubborn burnt stains.
Salt and Lemon: Salt and lemon are natural abrasive cleaners that can help scrub away burnt food. Sprinkle a good amount of salt into the bottom of the pot, and then rub it with a cut lemon. The combination of the acidity in the lemon and the abrasiveness of the salt works to break down the burnt bits without damaging the pot’s surface. This is perfect for pots with a lighter burn.
Dish Soap and Dryer Sheets: For a more hands-off approach, you can use dryer sheets to clean your burnt pot. Fill the pot with warm water, drop in a dryer sheet or two, and let it sit for an hour or overnight. The softening agents in the dryer sheets help break down the burnt food, making it easier to scrub away. After the wait, use a sponge to clean it – the pot should come out nearly spotless.
Commercial Cleaners: If natural methods aren’t doing the trick, there are several commercial cleaning products specifically designed to tackle burnt cookware. Products like Bar Keeper’s Friend or Easy-Off can be used to safely remove tough stains and restore your pot’s shine. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.