Mistakes with which we unknowingly destroy the Teflon pan

If we destroy the Teflon pan, sooner or later we won't have to use it anymore. Often, completely unknowingly, we make mistakes that reduce its effectiveness.

Teflon is a special coating of polymeric materials that is most commonly used on pans due to its ability to prevent food from sticking. Teflon pans are ideal for cooking dishes at lower temperatures, as they enable heat treatment without the need for additional fat, and at the same time the food is browned evenly. However, improper use of a Teflon pan can result in damage to the coating, reducing its effectiveness and causing food to stick to the bottom. To keep your pan at its best, avoid the following common mistakes.

Use of metal cookers

One of the most common mistakes we make unknowingly is using metal cooking utensils, forks or knives. Metal utensils can easily scratch the Teflon surface, causing small cracks through which food can penetrate to the bottom and burn. The Teflon pan will thus lose its non-stick properties and become less effective. To avoid this, always use wooden, silicone or plastic cooking utensils that will not damage the surface of the pan.

Unprotected surface during cleaning

When cleaning a Teflon pan, many people opt for coarse sponges, all with the aim of removing baked-on food. However, these accessories can damage the Teflon coating and cause scratches that impair the performance of the pan. Teflon pans are best cleaned with a soft sponge and mild dish detergent, avoiding harsh cleaning agents that could damage the coating.

Wash in the dishwasher

Although washing a Teflon pan in the dishwasher may seem convenient, doing so can shorten its lifespan. High temperatures and strong detergents in the dishwasher can damage the Teflon coating and cause it to start peeling. Instead, wash the pans by hand, using mild detergents and warm water, which will extend their life.

You leave food in the pan

It often happens that after cooking, we leave the food in the pan to cool down or because we don't have time to immediately transfer it to another container. However, acids and salts in food can cause the Teflon coating to begin to break down, especially if the pan is damaged or worn. To avoid damage, immediately after cooking, transfer the food to another container and clean the pan.

Pan overheating

Teflon pans are intended for cooking at lower temperatures. Overheating can cause the polymers in the Teflon coating to begin to break down, which not only reduces the efficiency of the pan, but can also release harmful substances. To keep the Teflon pan in optimal condition, avoid cooking at the highest temperature and use a medium or low temperature instead.