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#### **Instructions:**
1. **Fill the Pan with Warm Water**
Start by filling your burnt pan with warm water. You want enough water to cover the areas that are burnt or stained. The warm water will help loosen the debris and make cleaning easier.
2. **Add Baking Soda**
Sprinkle **2-3 tablespoons of baking soda** into the pan. The baking soda will start to fizz and bubble when it mixes with the water, and this action helps lift burnt food particles and grease. If the burnt spots are particularly stubborn, you can add a little more baking soda for extra cleaning power.
3. **Pour in the Vinegar**
Add about **1/4 cup of white vinegar** to the pan. You’ll notice a fizzy, bubbling reaction as the baking soda and vinegar combine. This fizzing action is key to breaking down the burnt residues, making them easier to scrub away.
4. **Let It Sit**
Allow the baking soda and vinegar mixture to sit in the pan for **15-20 minutes**. During this time, the fizzing will work its magic, loosening grease and grime. For extra tough stains, you can let the mixture sit longer or even leave it overnight for a deeper clean.
5. **Scrub Away the Grime**
After the mixture has had time to sit, take a scrub brush or sponge and gently scrub the burnt areas. The grime should come off much more easily now, and you’ll notice the exterior of the pan looking cleaner with each pass. Be sure to pay attention to the edges and handle where grease tends to build up.
6. **Rinse and Dry**
Once you’ve scrubbed away the burnt food and grease, rinse the pan with warm water to remove any remaining cleaning solution. Use a soft cloth or towel to dry the pan, and you’ll see it looking shiny and new.
### Why This Method Works
The beauty of using **baking soda** and **vinegar** for cleaning burnt pan exteriors is their natural ability to work together to break down stubborn stains. Here’s why this combination is so effective:
– **Baking soda’s abrasiveness** gently scrubs away the burnt material without damaging the surface of your pan.
– **Vinegar’s acidity** helps dissolve grease and burnt food particles, making them easier to wipe away.
– The **fizzing action** from the baking soda and vinegar combo lifts grime and residue, reducing the need for excessive scrubbing.
### Additional Tips for Cleaning Burnt Pans
– **For Stubborn Stains**: If the stains or burnt areas are particularly tough, repeat the process or try sprinkling a bit of extra baking soda on the problem spots before adding the vinegar. Let it sit for longer to loosen the residue.
– **For Nonstick Pans**: Always be gentle when scrubbing nonstick pans to avoid damaging the coating. A soft sponge or cloth is ideal for nonstick surfaces.
– **Use a Paste for More Control**: For better precision or if the burnt areas are focused on a specific spot, mix a paste of baking soda and a little water and apply it directly to the burnt spots. Let it sit, scrub, and rinse.
– **Regular Maintenance**: To prevent burnt-on grime in the future, try to clean your pans after each use while the food is still soft and hasn’t hardened on the surface. A quick rinse with warm water after cooking can save you time and effort later.
### Conclusion: A Quick, Simple, and Effective Solution
Cleaning burnt pan exteriors doesn’t have to be a frustrating task. With just **baking soda** and **vinegar**, you can restore your pans to their original shine without the need for harsh chemicals or hours of scrubbing. This natural and effective cleaning solution works wonders on grease, burnt food, and stubborn grime, leaving your pans looking spotless and ready for their next use.
Next time you’re faced with a burnt pan, skip the expensive cleaners and reach for these two kitchen staples instead. You’ll be amazed at how quickly and easily your pans can look as good as new!
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