Burnt pots and pans are every cook’s nightmare. The blackened bottoms and stubborn stains often make people reach for harsh tools like metal brushes — but that might be doing more harm than good. Scrubbing with iron or steel brushes can scratch the surface, damage non-stick coatings, and even reduce the lifespan of your cookware.

So what’s the solution?

The Simple Trick: Baking Soda and Vinegar

Instead of reaching for a metal brush, try this natural and gentle cleaning method that works like magic:

What You Need:

• 2 tablespoons of baking soda

• 1 cup of vinegar

• Hot water

• A soft sponge or cloth

Instructions:

1. Sprinkle baking soda over the burnt area of the pot or pan.

2. Pour vinegar over the baking soda — it will fizz and bubble.

3. Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to loosen the burnt residue.

4. Add hot water to cover the bottom and let it soak for another 10 minutes.

5. Gently scrub with a soft sponge — the burnt bits should lift off easily.

6. Rinse and dry.

Your cookware will look shiny and refreshed — without any scratches or hard scrubbing!

Why This Works

Baking soda is a natural abrasive that lifts stains without damaging surfaces, while vinegar cuts through grease and burnt residue. Together, they create a powerful cleaning reaction that’s both safe and effective.

Bonus Tips

• For heavy burns, repeat the process or let it soak overnight.

• Add lemon juice for extra degreasing power and a fresh scent.

• Avoid metal tools on non-stick or enamel cookware at all costs.