Stainless steel pans are a kitchen essential, known for their durability and versatility. However, they do require proper care, especially when it comes to cleaning. In this article, we’ll explore the best way to clean stainless steel pans, highlighting the top 10 products available on Amazon for this purpose. If you want your stainless steel cookware to last longer and maintain its shine, this article will guide you through the best practices and products to achieve that. Whether you’re looking for specialized cleaning agents or tools, knowing how to clean stainless steel pans efficiently can make a world of difference. We’ll provide in-depth reviews of the best products on the market as of 2024.
- 12 oz (340g) Powder Cleaner for Stainless Clad Pots and Pans
- Makes Clean-Up Easy - The Made In non-toxic Stainless Steel Cookware Cleaner instantly removes even the most stubborn burnt-on food
- Looks Brand New - Effectively cleans Made In Stainless Clad Cookware to remove stains and restore shine
- Industrial-Grade Cleaning - Tough enough for the most stubborn messes, returning your cookware to its shining glory with just a sprinkle and splash of water
- Multi-Purpose Use - Suitable for the Stainless Clad bottom of our Non-Stick Cookware, but not for cleaning the cooking surface
- Powder cleanser for stainless and aluminum cookware
- Can be applied to brushed or polished exteriors
- Made of natural minerals and environmentally safe ingredients
- Water proof plastic container with press-close sealing cap facilitates clean storage
- Not for use on hard anodized, copper or nonstick cookware
- #1 Selling Stainless Steel Brand - The best selling & most trusted stainless steel cleaning product
- Safe - For use on food contact surfaces, rinse after use
- Eliminate - Stains, rust, lime, tarnish, soap scum & hard water deposits don't stand a chance
- Protect - Polish leaves protective barrier that prevents smears dirt & smudges
- Recommended Use - Use on stainless steel cookware, sinks, & flatware - Also works create on copper, aluminum, ceramic, porcelain, glass, brass & bronze cookware, bakeware & sinks
- MATERIAL - Our stainless steel wool scrubber with handle is made of steel wire and plastic, the wire woven mesh is tightly wound, sturdy, and not easy to deform and loosen.
- STRONG CLEANING EFFECT - The pot scrubbers can effectively remove stubborn stains and ensure that your tableware is clean.
- WIDE APPLICATION - The scrubbe with handle can flexibly meet different needs.It can not only clean dishes such as bowls, plates, and pots, but is also suitable for cleaning utensils, cookware, grills, ovens, and grills, easily removing hard dirt and grease.
- HANDLE DESIGN - The design with a handle makes it easier for you to grip and operate the dishwasher, avoiding hand fatigue and soreness. At the same time, the stainless steel handle has an elegant texture, adding comfort when washing dishes.
- PACKAGE INCLUDES - 4 X Heavy duty pot scrubbers
- REMOVE STAINS & TARNISH: Kleen King’s stainless steel cleaner and copper cleaner is great for removing tough stains that develop on your cookware. It is also awesome for removing burnt/blacken mistakes and hard to get off foods from your stainless steel and copper pots and pans.
- BRING BACK THE SHINE: Kleen King stainless steel cleaners and copper cleaners can help bring your old pots and pans back to life! It takes off the “burnt on” effects of daily cooking and gives you something you can proudly display in your kitchen.
- MULTI-PURPOSE: This a multi-purpose metal cleaner that can be used in variety of ways. Whether you are looking to clean and brighten stainless steel and copper pots and pans, stainless steel sinks or even car wheels; Kleen King is the right answer for you!
- EASY TO USE: Sprinkle Kleen King stainless steel cookware cleaner and copper cookware cleaner on the bottom of your pots and pans. Dampen to make a little paste. Rub with a damp cloth. Rinse and dry. Done!
- ENVIROMENTALLY FRIENDLY FORMULA: Nontoxic, anti-tarnish formula. Designed and developed to use natural resources and help reduce carbon emissions.
- 【Stainless Steel Scrubber】：Made of high quality stainless steel, Internal spiral structure, tightly wound, soft and stretchy, preventing them from loosening, rusting。
- [Removes Dirt & Stains]: Suitable for cleaning of household utensils, pans, cookware, bakeware, ovens, grills, pots, pans, also can be used to clean tools outdoors, for hard to clean items, heavy duty stainless steel scouring pad can easily remove hard dirt and grease
- [Handle Design]:Ergonomic brush handle to deliver superior performance while keeping clean when using metal scrubbers for dishes, cleaning pans, pots, outdoor furniture, or wood decks
- Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish is a stainless steel cleaner and degreaser for pots, pans, and bakeware. This product's powerful grease remover cuts through oil, baked on food, mineral deposits, and rust stains. Safe for use on all stainless steel cookware, including All-Clad stainless steel pots and pans, and glass lids. This versatile cleaner is also safe to use for cleaning stainless steel sinks, porcelain sinks, steel grills, and other surfaces.
- Ideal for uncoated cookware
- Great for pots, pans, grills, broilers and more
- Long-lasting & Durable
- Cuts through and removes tough soil & burnt-on food FAST!
- Easy to rinse out
- Your Ultimate Stainless Cookware Cleaner – Fed up with stubborn food residue on your pots and pans? Safely and easily clean them with our complete cleaning set, which includes Bar Keepers Friend’s Powder Cookware Cleanser & Polish and three of Fox Trot’s thick scour pads plus one scraper.
- Grease-Cutting Formulation – Created with 50% more degreasing detergents than other cleaners, this stainless-steel pot cleaner is made to power through food grime on your pots, pans, and bakeware—making your cookware look brand new again.
- Cleans Where Others Fail – Looking for a stainless-steel cookware cleaner that easily removes tough stains and baked-on food? Unlike other solutions that remove only ordinary dirt, this stainless steel cleaner and polish effortlessly wipes away food stains, tarnish, rust, and water marks.
- Tough on Stains, Easy on Surfaces – Give your cookware a fresh reset with this stainless steel cleaner bundle. This cleaning solution works great on pots, pans, glass casserole dishes, and more. Each cleaning pad included is 3× thicker than other pads—leaving no residue on your kitchen items.
- Convenient and Versatile – This stainless steel polish isn’t only excellent on cookware. You can also use it on a variety of household surfaces, such as porcelain tubs, sinks, and tiles, to remove grease and restore shine.
- OUTDOOR USE: The best way to clean stainless steel grills, grill tools, camping cookware, rust stains and more
- This product can be used on Stainless Steel, Porcelain, Ceramic, Copper, Brass, Chrome, Aluminum
- BATHROOM USE: Removes the toughest rust stains and mineral deposits, cleans bathtubs and showers
- KITCHEN USE: The best way to clean Stainless Steel pots and pans, glass casserole dishes, baking sheets, oven door interiors, tough stains on cooking surfaces
The Importance of Cleaning Stainless Steel Pans
Stainless steel is known for its resistance to rust, staining, and corroding, but it can become discolored if not cleaned properly. The best way to clean stainless steel pans is to remove any food particles and greasy residue to prevent fading and maintain their luster. Using the right cleaning products not only makes this task easier but also ensures your pans remain in pristine condition. Now let’s delve into our top 10 recommended products available on Amazon that can help you achieve the best clean for your stainless steel pans.
Top 10 Products to Clean Stainless Steel Pans
1. Bar Keepers Friend Stainless Steel Cleaner
Bar Keepers Friend is a trusted name when it comes to cleaning stainless steel. This powdered cleaner cuts through tough stains and tarnish without scratching your cookware. It’s made with oxalic acid, making it effective against discoloration and mineral deposits. Users rave about its ability to restore the shine of cookware with minimal scrubbing.
Pros: Effective stain removal, non-abrasive formula, restores shine.
Cons: Requires rinsing thoroughly after use.
This cleaner is suitable for a variety of stainless steel surfaces, including pots, pans, and even sinks. The results are impressive, making it a staple in many kitchens that strive for cleanliness and brilliance.
- Remove Stains & Tarnish: Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish is a kitchen stainless steel cleaner and degreaser for pots, pans and bakeware. This stain remover and glass cleaner cuts through heavy oil, hard baked-on food and rust stains
- Restores Shine: This cleaner & polish will leave your aluminum or stainless steel pans with a streak-free shine. With BKF cookware cleaner, you can easily remove burnt food and oily residue, all without scratching your cookware, utensils, sink or grill
- Safe On All Surfaces: Bar Keepers Friend multipurpose cleaning powder contains no harsh chemicals. It can be used as a stainless steel polish, oven cleaner, rust remover & sink cleaner. Our kitchen cleaning supplies are gentle and won't damage cookware
- Once Tried, Always Used: Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish is a gentle and highly effective metal and stainless steel cleaner. Once you've used Bar Keepers Friend for your kitchen tools, cookware & bakeware, you'll never look back
- America's Trusted Cleaning Products Since 1882: Trusted by homeowners and professionals for over 100 years, we are proud to offer a wide range of home cleaning supplies that are tough on stains and gentle on surfaces to help keep your home looking pristine
2. Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish
Another popular option, Weiman’s Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish, is designed to clean, shine, and protect stainless steel surfaces. The formula is streak-free, making it one of the best ways to clean stainless steel pans with ease. It is particularly effective at removing fingerprints, smudges, and greasy residue.
Pros: Streak-free finish, protects against future stains, easy to use.
Cons: Slightly more expensive than competing products.
This spray cleaner provides an instant shine while leaving a protective layer, so your pans will look great after every use. Ideal for both regular maintenance and deep cleaning, this spray is a perfect addition to your kitchen cleaning arsenal.
- #1 Selling Stainless Steel Brand - The best selling & most trusted stainless steel cleaning product.
- Clean & Polish - A pH neutral formula quickly cleans, shines & protects any stainless steel surface.
- Convenient - Effectively eliminates surface fingerprints, haze, grease, streaks & residue build up.
- Protect Black Stainless Steel - Polish leaves protective barrier that prevents smears dirt & smudges
- Use On - Stainless steel refrigerator, microwave, oven, stove, grill, sink, range-hood & trash cans.
3. Simple Green Stainless Steel Cleaner
Simple Green offers a biodegradable stainless steel cleaner that effectively cuts through grease and grime without harsh chemicals. It’s an excellent choice if you prefer eco-friendly products. Users appreciate its fresh scent and the fact that it’s safe for food contact surfaces.
Pros: Eco-friendly formulation, non-toxic, pleasant fragrance.
Cons: May require more elbow grease for stubborn stains.
This cleaner is suitable for daily use and can tackle tough messes while providing a shine that lasts. The safety and environmental benefits make it a favored option for conscientious cooks.
- #1 Selling Stainless Steel Brand - The best selling & most trusted stainless steel cleaning product.
- Clean & Polish - A pH neutral formula quickly cleans, shines & protects any stainless steel surface.
- Convenient - Effectively eliminates surface fingerprints, haze, grease, streaks & residue build up.
- Protect Black Stainless Steel - Polish leaves protective barrier that prevents smears dirt & smudges
- Use On - Stainless steel refrigerator, microwave, oven, stove, grill, sink, range-hood & trash cans.
4. Eco-Exempt Stainless Steel Cleaner
Eco-Exempt provides a powerful yet environmentally friendly alternative for cleaning stainless steel. This plant-based cleaner is non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals, making it a safe choice for homes with children and pets.
Pros: Non-toxic, biodegradable, effective against grease.
Cons: May need a follow-up with a microfiber cloth for the shiniest finish.
Not only does it clean effectively, but its commitment to sustainability is a significant selling point for many buyers. This product is perfect for anyone looking to maintain their pan’s cleanliness while being eco-conscious.
- PROVEN CLEAN: Greenseal Certified natural formula is tested and proven to preform better than leading chemical based stainless steel cleaners
- STREAK FREE FORMULA: Creates a beautiful shine that is streak free and chemical free. Removes fingerprints and grim off of stainless steel appliances, counter tops, BBQs and décor.No Animal Testing or By-Products
- CLEAN, SAFE & EFFECTIVE FORMULA: This Eco-Friendly formula is made from plant extracts and natural botanicals. All of our products are made with premium quality, natural based ingredients that provide safe and effecting cleaning for you and your whole family. Eco-Tip: Avoid polishes with petro-chemicals which are classified as human toxins
- FREE FROM HARSH CHEMICALS: Free from Sulfates (SLS, SLES, SCS), Perfumes, Artificial Fragrance, Dyes, Bleach, Ammonia and Harsh Preservatives (Benzisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone)
- MADE IN USA: Leaping Bunny Certified, Cruelty Free, Septic and Greywater Safe, Vegan and Gluten Free Please change this listing as it now meets the 255 character limit, thank you
5. CLR Calcium Lime Rust Remover
While CLR is not specifically marketed as a stainless steel cleaner, it is highly effective for removing calcium, lime, and rust stains that can accumulate on your cookware. It’s a powerful solution for tough mineral buildup, making it one of the best ways to clean stainless steel pans that have suffered from neglect.
Pros: Multi-purpose cleaner, excellent for tough stains, easy to use.
Cons: Needs to be rinsed thoroughly, may be too strong for everyday use.
CLR is especially handy if you live in an area with hard water, which can leave unsightly stains on your pans. Just ensure to use it sparingly and rinse well!
- Sold as 1 Each.
- Dissolves the hardest of calcium, lime and rust buildup. Blasts calcium deposits from glassware, tile, tea and coffee pots.
- Dissolves lime scale from coffee pots, humidifiers, tubs, toilets and sinks.
- Zaps rust stains from stucco, brick, porcelain, chrome and metal.
- Safe on all plumbing such as copper and plastic PVC.
6. Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponge
Sometimes, the right tools can make all the difference. The Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponge is designed specifically for ceramic and stainless steel surfaces, ensuring you can scrub away food particles without scratching your pans. It’s excellent for every day cleaning.
Pros: Non-scratch, durable, dual-sided for different cleaning needs.
Cons: Needs regular replacement.
This sponge is a perfect companion to any cleaning product you choose, enhancing the cleaning power while protecting the surface of your pans from scratches and damage.
- SIX SCRUBBING SPONGES: This pack of Scotch-Brite Zero Scratch Scrub Sponges includes six sponges.
- EFFECTIVE & GENTLE: Tackle everyday messes with these non-scratch sponges that safely clean grease, grime, and dirt so even the messiest surfaces shine like new.
- 3X QUICKER*: They can help you clean 3x quicker compared to other leading temperature-reactive sponges.
- SAFE ON MOST SURFACES: Multipurpose scrubbing sponges for cleaning dishes, nonstick pots and pans, countertops, glass, tubs, showers, and more. Do not use on stainless steel appliances.
- FLEXIBLE, DURABLE, STRONG: These sponges for dishes are S-shaped for a comfortable grip while getting into corners easily.
7. OxiClean MaxForce Gel Stick
OxiClean’s MaxForce Gel Stick offers a unique formula that targets tough stains. While primarily marketed for laundry use, this gel can be a great option for cleaning heavily soiled cookware, thanks to its stain-fighting enzymes.
Pros: Versatile stain removal, easy application, targeted cleaning.
Cons: May need multiple applications for extremely tough stains.
It’s particularly useful for burnt-on food residues. Just apply, let it sit, and rinse off for a clean surface.
- Three 6.2 fl oz OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Gel Stick tackles your stubborn and dried-in laundry stains
- OxiClean Max Force gel lets you pretreat stains now, then wash up to seven days later for cleaning that fits your schedule
- Powerful laundry spot remover for oil, grease, makeup, blood, grass, soil, clay, ink, food, drinks, and kid and baby stains
- Laundry stain remover for clothes is color safe, dye free, chlorine free, and safe to use on all machine-washable whites and colored fabrics, even kid and baby clothes
- Rub gel directly on stains until saturated, let stand five minutes or up to seven days, then wash with detergent in warmest water garment will accept; to get clothes extra clean, add OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover powder to washer per label directions
8. Pledge Multi-Surface Cleaner
Pledge Multi-Surface Cleaner is another versatile option that cleans stainless steel as well as a variety of other surfaces. It’s quick-drying, making it an excellent choice for busy kitchens where time is of the essence.
Pros: Fast-drying, works on multiple surfaces, no residue left behind.
Cons: May not be as concentrated specifically for stainless steel compared to other cleaners.
This product is a good choice if you prefer a single cleaner for various surfaces, keeping your kitchen neat and clean with minimal hassle.
- Sweet citrus scent of a freshly-cleaned-and-beautiful home
- Effectively cleans electronics, glass and mirrors, granite (sealed), laminate non floors, marble (sealed), stainless steel, wood (sealed), and more
- Effectively cleans and disinfects electronics, glass & mirrors, granite (sealed), laminate Non floors, marble (sealed), stainless steel and wood (sealed)
9. Nevr-Dull Wadding Polish
Nevr-Dull is a wadding polish that works exceptionally well to remove oxidation and tarnish from stainless steel. While it’s not a traditional cleaner, it’s effective for restoring the shine to dull cookware.
Pros: Restores shine, effective on tarnished stainless steel, easy to use.
Cons: Not a cleaner per se; works best on already cleaned surfaces.
This product is perfect for maintenance after cleaning, ensuring your pans always look their best.
- Nevr-dull, 5 oz wadding polish, will not scratch delicate surfaces, safe, non poisonous, for cleaning & polishing all metals, removes rust & tar from chrome
- Adds Extra shine to your product
- Manufactured in United States
- Nevr-dull, 5 oz wadding polish, will not scratch delicate surfaces, safe, non poisonous, for cleaning & polishing all metals, removes rust & tar from chrome
- Manufactured in United States
10. Dawn Ultra Dish Soap
Sometimes, simplicity is key. Dawn Ultra Dish Soap is a versatile soap that works wonders when paired with hot water for cleaning stainless steel pans. It’s excellent at cutting through grease and is safe for all cookware.
Pros: Cost-effective, easily accessible, highly effective.
Cons: Doesn’t provide a protective coat like dedicated stainless steel cleaners.
This classic dish soap is a must-have for any kitchen and a great starting point in the cleaning routine for your stainless steel pans.
- 1. GREASE-CLEANING POWER: Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid contains powerful cleaning ingredients that fight grease, making it an effective dish soap liquid
- 2. CONCENTRATED FORMULA: The concentrated formula of Dawn Ultra helps you get through more dishes with less dishwashing liquid, making it an efficient dish detergent liquid
- 3. LESS SCRUBBING: Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid Dish Soap offers 50% less scrubbing* (*vs. Dawn Non-Concentrated), saving you time and effort
- 4. ORIGINAL SCENT: Enjoy the refreshing original scent of this dish soap refill, a pleasant addition to your kitchen cleaning supplies
- 5. USAGE INSTRUCTIONS: Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid Dish Soap Refill, Original is not for use in dishwashers. For a comprehensive clean, consider using dishwasher cleaner and deodorizer or dishwasher rinse aid
Buying Guide for the Best Way to Clean Stainless Steel Pans
When choosing the best way to clean your stainless steel pans, consider the following factors:
1. Type of Stains
Identify the type of stains you’re dealing with. For burnt-on food, a scrub sponge or gel may be necessary. For regular maintenance, a spray cleaner may suffice.
2. Chemical Sensitivity
If you or anyone in your household has sensitivities to chemicals or prefers eco-friendly products, opt for non-toxic and biodegradable options. Look for certifications like Green Seal or EcoLogo.
3. Ease of Use
Look for products that are easy to use. Spray bottles or wadded solutions may be more convenient than powder cleaners that require mixing.
4. Surface Protection
Using a cleaner that leaves a protective coating can help resist future stains. Products that polish as they clean will often provide better long-term results.
5. Cost
Consider your budget. While some products may be a bit higher in price, their effectiveness might make them worth the investment. Always check for reviews and product effectiveness before purchasing.
Conclusion
Choosing the best way to clean stainless steel pans is essential for maintaining their appearance and longevity. The above products from Amazon in 2024 are among the best rated for various cleaning needs, from deep cleaning to routine maintenance. Combining the right cleaning agent with effective tools will ensure your pans remain in top condition. Whether you’re dealing with tough stains, regular grime, or the aftermath of a big meal, these products will help you keep your stainless steel cookware looking its best. Remember that with proper care, your stainless steel pans can provide beautiful cooking surfaces for many years to come.
Last update on 2025-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.