Cooking delicious stews, soups, and other flavorful dishes is a joyous experience, but the aftermath of cleaning greasy pots can be quite daunting. Using too much heat or stepping away for a little too long can easily damage whatever you’re making in the kitchen. And when you’re dealing with a burnt-on mess at the bottom of your cookware, a simple wash with soap and water isn’t the most effective solution.

Cleaning burnt pots and pans may require using other household methods that can cut through the grease and lift away stuck-on grime. Most methods used to restore your pots’ shine and sparkle require a bit of scrubbing, so be prepared to do some work to make your pot or pan as good as brand new again. The key to getting your pots sparkling clean is to get the right tools and techniques to restore your pots to their pristine condition.

Before you start any cleaning process on your pots, check the manufacturer’s instructions first for specific cleaning steps. Allow the pan to cool down before you attempt to clean it.

Try these effective tips on how to clean your pots using everyday products such as sponges, dishwashing liquid, legendary pots, cloth, and vinegar. Let’s dive in!

Gather Your Tools:
Before starting the cleaning process, ensure you have all the necessary tools within reach. You’ll need a sponge, dishwashing liquid, a soft cloth, a legendary pot (if available), and vinegar. Having everything prepared in advance will make the cleaning process more efficient.

Scrape off Excess Food:
To make the cleaning process easier, scrape off any excess food residue from your pot. Use a wooden spoon or a spatula to gently remove any leftover bits. Avoid using metal utensils, as they may scratch the pot’s surface.

Soak the Pot:
If your pot has stubborn, stuck-on food, fill it with warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Allow it to soak for about 15-20 minutes. This will help loosen the residue and make it easier to clean later.

Utilize a Soft Sponge:
Once the pot has soaked, take a soft sponge and apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid to it. Gently scrub the pot’s interior, paying special attention to areas with tough stains. The soft sponge will help remove food particles without scratching the pot’s surface.

Embrace the Power of Legendary Pots:
Consider investing in a legendary pot, also known as an enameled cast iron pot. These pots are built to withstand high temperatures and are known for their excellent heat retention properties. Cleaning a legendary pot is relatively easy; simply use a soft sponge or cloth and warm soapy water to gently wipe away any residues. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they may damage the pot’s enamel coating.

Remove Stubborn Stains with Vinegar:
For pots with stubborn stains or burnt-on food, vinegar can be a great natural solution. Fill the pot with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. The acid in the vinegar will help break down the stains. Afterward, scrub the pot gently with a sponge or cloth. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove any vinegar odor.

Rinse and Dry:
Once you have successfully cleaned the pot, rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining soap or vinegar residue. After rinsing, dry the pot with a soft cloth or allow it to air dry completely before storing. This will prevent water spots or potential mold growth