Burnt pots happen to everyone. Whether you forgot a pot on the stove or food cooked a little too long, stubborn black stains don’t have to mean it’s time to replace your cookware. With a few common household ingredients, you can remove burnt residue and restore your pot’s shine.
What You’ll Need
- 4 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons dish soap
- 1 cup hot water
- A non-scratch sponge or soft scrubbing pad
- Soft microfiber cloth for drying
Step 1: Make the Cleaning Paste
In a small bowl, combine:
- 4 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons dish soap
- 1 cup hot water
Mix everything until it forms a thick, spreadable paste.
Tip: If the paste is too thin, add a little more baking soda.
Step 2: Apply the Paste
Spread the mixture generously over the burnt area, making sure the entire stain is covered.
For heavy buildup, apply a thicker layer directly on the darkest spots.
Step 3: Let It Sit
Allow the paste to work for 20–30 minutes.
This gives the baking soda time to loosen burnt grease and baked-on food while the dish soap breaks down oils.
Step 4: Scrub Gently
Using a non-scratch sponge, scrub the surface with gentle circular motions.
Avoid using steel wool or abrasive scrubbers, especially on stainless steel, ceramic, or non-stick cookware, as they can scratch the finish.
For stubborn spots, apply a little more paste and repeat the process.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the pot with warm water until all of the cleaning paste is removed.
Dry it immediately with a soft microfiber cloth to help prevent water spots and leave a polished finish.
