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Care Guide: Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Carbon Steel & PFAS-Free Non-Stick Pans

Properly caring for your cookware doesn't just extend its lifespan – it also improves your cooking results. In this practical guide, we explain how to clean and maintain your pots and pans based on the material – from 18/10 stainless steel to carbon steel, raw cast iron, and ceramic non-stick pans without PFAS.

Pannen schoonmaken en onderhouden: zo doe je het per materiaaltype

How to make your stainless steel pans shine again?

18/10 stainless steel is a kitchen essential: strong, hygienic, long-lasting and heat-resistant. No wonder it’s used both by professional chefs and home cooks. But even this ultra-durable material needs the right care to stay shiny and effective over time.

Stainless steel pans can sometimes develop white spots, discoloration, or burnt food residues. The good news? They’re easy to clean with the right method.

  • White stains or mineral residue?

    These are usually starch or limescale deposits. Heat a 50/50 mix of water and vinegar in the pan for a few minutes. Then gently scrub with a soft sponge. Rinse well and dry completely.

  • Rainbow discoloration?

    Clean the pan with hot soapy water. Then apply a stainless steel cleaner, scrub, rinse and polish dry with a soft cloth.

  • Burnt food stuck to the pan?

    Boil a mix of water and vinegar in the pan. Add a tablespoon of baking soda, let it foam, and leave to sit for 15 minutes. Scrub carefully with a non-abrasive brush or soft steel wool.

Caring for a carbon steel pan

Carbon steel pans are made from raw, uncoated steel. Over time, they build a natural non-stick patina through seasoning and frequent use.

  • Rust spots?

    Usually caused by moisture or improper storage. Soak the rusty area in white vinegar, scrub with an abrasive sponge, rinse and dry well. Then re-season to rebuild protection.

📌 Always dry your pan thoroughly and store it in a dry place. Ideally, place a cloth between stacked pans to avoid scratches and moisture buildup.

More tips for carbon steel

Cleaning and maintaining a raw cast iron pan

Raw cast iron pans are built to last for decades – or even a lifetime – with proper care. That means regular use, drying thoroughly, and applying a light coat of oil after each cleaning.

  • Rust showing up?

    If the pan wasn’t fully dried, rust can form. Soak it in white vinegar, scrub gently with a metal sponge, rinse, and dry thoroughly. Then re-season to restore the natural protective layer.

📌 After each use, lightly oil the surface and avoid harsh detergents. Never leave it wet or in a damp environment.

More on how to take care of cast iron

Maintaining a PFAS-free non-stick pan

Our non-stick pans are free from PFAS and coated with ceramic over an aluminum base. They’re easy to use and clean, but to protect the coating, hand washing is best.

  • Golden rule:

    Avoid the dishwasher. High heat and strong detergents degrade the non-stick layer over time.

  • Sticky residue?

    Soak the pan in warm water with a dash of vinegar. Then gently scrub with a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge.

📌 Avoid steel wool or harsh scrubbers – they can damage the coating permanently.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions on the care of your cookware

Can I put my pan in the dishwasher?

Our golden rule: hand wash your pans to preserve performance and lifespan.

  • Stainless steel pans are dishwasher safe.
  • Ceramic non-stick: technically dishwasher safe, but not recommended – it accelerates wear.
  • Carbon steel and cast iron: never put these in the dishwasher. It destroys the patina and causes rust

Help, I can't get your pan clean?

Still can't get your pan clean? Don’t worry. Even with the best care, pans sometimes need extra help.

Beka is here to help! Send us a photo of your pan via the contact form, and we’ll get back to you within 48 business hours with personalised advice.

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