Carbon off ! How do you clean the buildup carbon from cookware?

Are you still looking for an easy and quick way to remove the buildup carbon on the cookware?

 

How to clean your burnt-on pans?

If you have ever experienced carbon build-up on your cast iron or carbon steel cookware, you must know it can be a real pain to clean.

Cast iron and carbon steel cookware are great investments for any home cook. These cookware pieces are durable and can last for years with proper care. But you may have noticed that they start building up a black film on the surface over time.

 

But never fear—this post can help you fix the problem quickly! In just a few simple steps, you can remove all of that nasty carbon and have your cookware looking and performing like new again.

 

Why Does Carbon Build-Up Happen?

Carbon build-up occurs when food particles, grease, and oil are repeatedly exposed to high heat. Over time, this residue hardens into a tough, blackened layer that adheres to the cookware’s surface. While it’s not harmful, this layer can affect the cookware’s performance and aesthetic appeal. Regular cleaning is the key to maintaining your cookware.

 

How do you clean carbon buildup on your cast iron and carbon steel cookware?

 

  1. Baking soda

Baking soda is an effective cleaner that won't scratch your stainless steel pan.

 

Step 1: Pour enough warm water into the pan to cover the bottom of the pan.

Step 2: Pour in baking soda and stir it with the water to create a thick paste. Spread the baking soda paste over all the burned areas. Wait for several hours or overnight, then use a cleaning brush to scrub the pan.

Step 3: Wash to inspect the skillet. Repeat if necessary to remove the rest of the burnt marks.

 

  1. Vinegar with baking soda

If soda powder alone isn't enough, you can pair it with vinegar. Bring vinegar in the pan to a boil and then simmer for about five minutes. Move the pan off the heat and add 1 cup of baking soda — you might need to add less if it's a smaller skillet. This creates the classic bubbling effect. You can pour the mixture and scrub the pan once it stops to wipe out the marks.

 

  1. Toothpaste

Step 1: Squeeze toothpaste in a circular motion around the center of the cooled burnt residue.  Take the humid sponge and begin to work the toothpaste into the black residue, working outwards in a circular motion.

 

Step 2: Open the hot tap and place the pan underneath. Continue to wipe in circular motions.

 

The burnt residue on top of the cookware should slowly disappear. Finally, continue to wipe until the pan comes completely clean.

 

  1. Salt

Pour enough water to cover the bottom of the pan so all the burnt areas are covered, and bring it to a boil. Add a few spoons of salt and turn off the heat. Let the water cool for some hours, leaving it in the pan. Dump the water and scrub the cookware with a brush or sponge. 

 

Repeat this process until all of the burn marks are removed.

 

You can also sprinkle coarse salt on the rust and apply cooking or vegetable oil. Scrub the salt and oil into the rust with a soft cloth or paper towel, using a small circular motion to remove any traces of rust.

 

  1. Cola

Cola is carbonated and very acidic and can be very effective against stubborn stains. It can make the same result as club soda.

 

  1. Portable sandblasting gun

Try sandblasting, and it will be simpler than you thought! You only need to prepare the sandblaster gun and the abrasive (Aluminum Oxide, baking soda). Then, start cleaning.

 

You don't need to spend much time. You can find the cookware looks new again. 

 

Tips for Preventing Carbon Build-Up

  1. Season Your Cookware Properly: Ensure cast iron and carbon steel cookware are seasoned correctly to create a non-stick surface.
  2. Clean Regularly: After each use, remove any food residue immediately to prevent build-up.
  3. Avoid High Heat for Prolonged Periods: Excessive heat can cause oil and food particles to burn, accelerating carbon build-up.
  4. Use Non-Abrasive Tools: Prevent scratches by using soft sponges and brushes for regular cleaning.

 

Conclusion

Cleaning carbon buildup doesn’t have to be a struggle. Whether you opt for simple home remedies like baking soda or a powerful tool like the LEMATEC Sandblasting Gun, maintaining your cookware has never been easier. Invest in the right tools and techniques to keep your cookware looking great and performing at its best for years. If you have other objects with dirt or rust, you can also use the sandblasting gun to refurbish them.

 

If you haven't found a quick way to remove the carbon buildup on the cookware, a sandblaster is a good option. With a LEMATEC portable sandblasting gun, you can quickly and easily blast away the grime and have the cookware look new again. So what are you waiting for? Check out our selection of sandblasters, and start cleaning!

 

About the Author:

Vic Chen is the General Manager at Lematec and has over 10 years of experience in digital marketing and the pneumatic industry. Follow Vic on LinkedIn.