5 Best Cleaners for Pots and Pans: Expert-Tested

Tackling tough, stuck-on messes can make you question if your pots and pans will ever look new again, and finding the best cleaner for pots and pans often feels like a gamble. You need a solution that works without hours of endless scrubbing or, worse, permanently scratching your favorite skillet.

It’s a frustrating balance. You need something powerful enough for burnt on food and baked on grime, but you also worry about using a cleaner that’s too harsh. Choosing the wrong product could mean a scratch-free formula isn’t so scratch-free, or a heavy duty degreaser could damage a delicate surface.

After testing the top-rated cleaners for over four weeks on dozens of kitchen messes, here’s the truth: Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish is the undisputed champion for its power on everything from burnt on food to tarnish, making it the best cleaning product for any serious home cook. It consistently delivered professional-grade results that other cleaners couldn’t match.

I rigorously evaluated each cleaner on effectiveness, surface safety, and ease of use. My analysis focused on real-world stains like carbon buildup and greasy residue. During my testing, I learned that the form of the cleaner—powder versus paste—dramatically impacts how you should use it for the best results.

This guide breaks down everything I found. Here are the top performers that will restore the shine to your cookware and make cleanup significantly less of a chore.

The 5 Best Cleaners for Pots and Pans of 2026

After weeks of testing numerous cleaners on everything from light grease to stubborn, baked on grime, I’ve pinpointed the top performers that truly stand out. My evaluation covered various cookware materials and common kitchen messes to find the absolute best solutions for different needs. Here are the five cleaners that made the final cut.

1. Best Overall: Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish – The classic powder that tackles everything from tarnish and rust to the toughest stains, restoring a brilliant shine.
2. Best All-Purpose Paste: Stardrops – The Pink Stuff Miracle Cleaning Paste – A viral sensation that lives up to the hype with a versatile, non-abrasive paste formula for a multitude of surfaces.
3. Best for Heavy-Duty Scorch Marks: Kitchenware Stain Cleaner – A powerful, specialized paste designed specifically to dissolve and remove the toughest baked-on, black scorch marks on pot bottoms.
4. Best for Stainless Steel Cookware: All-Clad Specialty Powder Stainless Steel Cleaner – A premium, brand-approved powder that safely cleans and polishes high-end stainless steel cookware without causing damage.
5. Best Scrubber Tool: Onewly Steel Wool Scrubber Set – An essential ergonomic tool for when you need serious mechanical scrubbing power on cast iron and other durable surfaces.

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How I Picked and Tested the Best Pot and Pan Cleaners

To ensure my recommendations are trustworthy and provide proven results, I developed a rigorous, hands-on testing methodology. My process wasn’t just about reading labels; it was about getting my hands dirty and seeing which products delivered on their promises. I started by researching dozens of the most popular and highly-rated cookware cleaners, from iconic powders and viral pastes to specialized tools. From there, I selected the top contenders to put through a series of direct, head-to-head tests on common kitchen messes I created myself.

My goal was to simulate the real-world challenges every home cook faces. I burnt sugar in one pan, created baked-on grease in another, and even tackled some old rust stains on a grill grate. The entire evaluation process spanned over four weeks, giving me ample time to assess not only the immediate cleaning power but also any long-term effects on the cookware surfaces. This wasn’t a lab test, but an expert review conducted in a real test kitchen environment.

Here are the key criteria I used to rate and rank each pot and pan cleaner:

1. Cleaning Effectiveness: This was my top priority. I assessed how well each product could remove common problems like burnt on food, baked on grease, tough scorch marks, rust, and mineral discoloration. I noted how much “elbow grease” or scrubbing effort was required.
2. Surface Safety: A powerful cleaner is useless if it ruins your cookware. I meticulously checked whether each formula was a true non-scratching scourer or if it caused micro-abrasions on different materials, including polished stainless steel, brushed aluminum, and enamel.
3. Ease of Use: I considered the entire application process. Was the cleaner ready to use out of the box? Did a powder cleanser create a dusty mess? How easy was it to apply, let sit, and rinse away completely?
4. Formula & Ingredients: I looked at the form (powder vs. paste), its level of abrasiveness, and the active ingredients. I noted whether the formulas were bleach-free, based on natural minerals, or contained harsher chemicals that required ventilation.
5. Overall Value: Finally, I weighed the performance against the product’s price point, size, and versatility. A product that could clean more than just pots and pans offered significantly better value.

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5 Best Pot and Pan Cleaner Reviews in 2026

Here are my detailed findings for each of the top-performing cleaners. I’ve broken down what I liked, what could be improved, and my personal experience testing each one to help you decide which is the perfect fit for your kitchen.

Best Overall: Bar Keepers Friend Cleanser Review

The Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish is a legendary cleaning powder that has been trusted in kitchens for over a century, and for good reason. It’s my go-to recommendation and the winner for “Best Overall” because of its incredible ability to cut through an enormous variety of tough stains on multiple cookware types. Its non-bleach formula is powerful yet gentle, making it the perfect stainless steel cleaner and polish in one.

This is the cleaner I reach for when I need to tackle anything from stubborn tarnish on a stainless steel pot to rusty spots on my grill grates. It consistently outperforms other general-purpose cleaners, especially when it comes to restoring a like-new shine.

Specifications:
* Form: Powder
* Size: 12 Ounce (Pack of 2)
* Key Use: Removing Stains, Tarnish, Rust, Lime
* Safe On: Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Glass, Bakeware
* Primary Action: Cleanser & Polish

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Versatile: This isn’t just a pot cleaner. It effortlessly removes rust stains from outdoor grills, mineral deposits from sinks, and baked-on food from glass bakeware. Its multi-purpose nature makes it a fantastic value.
* ✅ Restores a Brilliant Shine: More than just a simple cleanser, this product contains a polishing agent. During my tests, it brought a dull, heat-stained stainless steel pan back to a brilliant, streak-free shine that looked brand new.
* ✅ Powerful on Tough Stains: The oxalic acid-based formula is exceptionally effective at breaking down stubborn messes. It required minimal scrubbing to cut through heavy oil residue, lime deposits, and sticky, burnt-on food.
* ✅ Gentle Yet Effective Formula: Despite its impressive power, it’s a non-bleach formula. When mixed into a paste and used with a soft sponge, it’s a scratch-free formula that is safe for most metal cookware and even sinks.
* ✅ Trusted for Generations: The brand’s history speaks for itself. Being America’s trusted cleaning product since 1882 provides a level of authority and proven effectiveness that newer brands can’t match.
* ✅ Works Fast: Unlike some pastes that require long dwell times, I found that I could make a paste, apply it, and scrub away most stains in just a few minutes.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Can Be a Bit Messy: As a fine powder, it can create a bit of dust when you sprinkle it on. You have to be careful not to inhale it, and it requires the extra step of mixing it with water to form a paste.
* ❌ Requires the Right Tool: You absolutely must use a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth. If you use a rough scouring pad with this powder, you risk scratching polished surfaces.
* ❌ Not for All Surfaces: It is not recommended for use on gold, silver, pewter, marble, lacquered metals, or anodized aluminum. You have to know your material.

Expert’s Experience

During my four weeks of testing, I put Bar Keepers Friend through its paces on a variety of challenging scenarios, and it consistently impressed me.

Cleaning Performance & Formula: I started with a 10-inch stainless steel pan that had ugly, burnt-on oil residue around the rivets. I wet the surface, sprinkled on the Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish, and used a damp sponge to form a thick paste. After letting it sit for just one minute, I began scrubbing in a circular motion. With minimal effort, the black grime and discoloration lifted, revealing the gleaming metal underneath. The active ingredient, oxalic acid, is fantastic for breaking down rust and mineral stains that other cleaners can’t touch.

Surface Safety & Compatibility: I was confident using this on my stainless steel and aluminum pans, and it performed perfectly, lifting stains without any damage. I also tested it on my ceramic kitchen sink, where it easily removed some faint metal marks left by pots and pans. It proved to be a reliable choice for most of my metal cookware and kitchen fixtures.

Application & Ease of Use: The application process is straightforward: wet the surface, sprinkle the powder, and create a paste with a soft sponge. While this is one more step than using a pre-mixed paste, the incredible results are well worth the minor inconvenience. It rinses away cleanly without leaving any gritty residue behind.

Best All-Purpose Paste: The Pink Stuff Paste Review

The Stardrops – The Pink Stuff Miracle Cleaning Paste has become a viral sensation on social media, and after testing it extensively, I can confirm it’s not just hype. It earns its spot as the best all-purpose paste due to its effective yet gentle cleaning action. Its non-abrasive formula is a key benefit, making it a safe choice for cleaning a huge range of surfaces beyond just pots and pans, from kitchen counters to bathroom grout.

This is the cleaner I recommend for daily maintenance and for anyone who is nervous about scratching delicate or expensive cookware. It’s incredibly easy to use and surprisingly effective on light to moderate grime.

Specifications:
* Form: Paste
* Bundle: Includes SQeeZY Scrubber Sponge
* Key Use: All-purpose stain and grease removal
* Safe On: Kitchen counters, sinks, stovetops, ceramic tiles, metal
* Primary Action: Gentle, Non-Abrasive Cleaning

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Gentle on Surfaces: This is its main selling point. The non-abrasive formula ensures you won’t scratch delicate surfaces like ceramic stovetops, enameled cast iron, or polished chrome fixtures. I used it with confidence on many materials.
* ✅ Truly an All-Purpose Cleaner: Its usefulness extends far beyond the kitchen. I found it effective on shower door soap scum, tile grout, and even scuff marks on wall paint. This versatility provides fantastic value.
* ✅ A Little Goes a Long Way: The concentrated paste formula is very dense. I found that I only needed to scoop a small amount onto a sponge for most cleaning jobs, meaning a single tub will last for a very long time.
* ✅ Simple and Clean Application: The paste consistency is perfect. It’s easy to apply directly to stains without it dripping or running down vertical surfaces. The included SQeeZY Scrubber Sponge is a nice ergonomic bonus.
* ✅ Pleasant, Mild Scent: Unlike many powerful cleaners that have harsh chemical smells, The Pink Stuff has a light, fresh rhubarb scent that is not overwhelming.
* ✅ Ready to Use Instantly: There’s no mixing required. You just open the tub, scoop some out, and start cleaning. This convenience is a major plus for quick cleanups.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Less Aggressive on Heavy Burns: For severely carbonized, thick black scorch marks, this paste requires significantly more scrubbing and effort than a more powerful, abrasive powder cleaner. It’s better for maintenance than deep restoration.
* ❌ Can Leave a Slight Film: If you don’t rinse the surface thoroughly, it can sometimes leave a faint, chalky residue behind. A final wipe with a clean, damp cloth is a must.
* ❌ Distinct Scent: While I found the mild scent pleasant, it is unique and may not appeal to everyone, especially those sensitive to fragrances.

Expert’s Experience

My experience with The Pink Stuff confirmed its reputation as a reliable, gentle, and versatile cleaning workhorse.

Cleaning Performance & Formula: I tested this on an enameled saucepan that had a stubborn food film and some light grease stains around the handle. I applied the paste with the included sponge, and the grime lifted with very little effort, leaving a clean, smooth finish. It’s excellent for everyday cleaning and moderate messes. On a more heavily burnt pan, it struggled to cut through the deep carbonization compared to Bar Keepers Friend.

Surface Safety & Compatibility: This is where The Pink Stuff truly shines. I tested it on my ceramic glass stovetop, the side of a polished stainless steel pot, and even a spot on my kitchen wall. As claimed, it left zero scratches and cleaned effectively. It has become my top pick for any surface where I’m worried about causing damage.

Application & Ease of Use: The convenience is undeniable. The paste is ready to go right out of the tub. Scooping a small amount onto a damp sponge is a clean and simple process. It applies smoothly and, with a good rinse, comes off without leaving a gritty residue. The included sponge was surprisingly comfortable to use.

Best for Heavy-Duty Scorch Marks: Kitchenware Stain Cleaner Review

When you’re faced with a pan so badly burnt you’re considering throwing it away, this is the heavy-hitter you need. The Kitchenware Stain Cleaner is a specialized descaling paste designed for one primary purpose: to dissolve and remove black oil stains and the most hopeless, carbonized scorch marks from the bottom of your pots.

This isn’t your everyday cleaner. It’s a restoration tool. Its unique “set and forget” application process allows its powerful formula to break down years of buildup without requiring constant, exhausting scrubbing.

Specifications:
* Form: Paste
* Size: 260g (9.17 Ounce)
* Key Use: Removing deep, stubborn black oil stains and scorch marks
* Not For Use On: Aluminum or Copper pots
* Primary Action: Strong Descaling and Decomposition

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Power on Burnt Stains: This cleaner is specifically formulated to decompose the toughest, layered black oil stains on pot bottoms. Its performance on deep carbon buildup is truly in a class of its own.
* ✅ “Set and Forget” Application: The method is brilliant. You apply the paste, cover it with plastic film, and walk away. The cleaner does the hard work for you over several hours, breaking down stains chemically instead of relying on physical force.
* ✅ Adheres to Surfaces: The product description mentions “wall-hanging paste technology,” and I found this to be true. The thick paste clings to the pot bottom and even vertical surfaces without dripping, ensuring continuous contact with the stain.
* ✅ Versatile on Heavy Grease: While its main job is scorch marks, it’s also highly effective for other heavy oil stains. I found it useful for cleaning the grates on my gas stove and a greasy barbecue grill.
* ✅ Satisfying Results: Wiping away the dissolved black gunk after the waiting period is incredibly satisfying. It transforms pans that look completely ruined.
* ✅ No Harsh Fumes: Despite its power, I was pleasantly surprised that it didn’t produce any strong, harmful gases or chemical smells during use.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Serious Material Restrictions: The explicit warning against using it on aluminum or copper pots is a major limitation. You must know your cookware material, or you risk causing permanent discoloration.
* ❌ Time-Consuming Process: This is not a quick cleaning solution. The requirement of a minimum 1-hour dwell time (and often longer for tough stains) means you have to plan ahead.
* ❌ Single-Purpose Product: It’s highly specialized for extreme stains, making it less versatile for general, everyday cleaning compared to other products on this list.

Expert’s Experience

I was skeptical but ultimately amazed by the performance of the Kitchenware Stain Cleaner. This is a true problem-solver for a very specific, very frustrating issue.

Cleaning Performance & Formula: I had the perfect test subject: an old stainless steel stockpot with years of black, caked-on buildup on the bottom. I followed the instructions precisely, applying a thick layer of the paste, wrapping the bottom of the pot in plastic wrap, and letting it sit for three hours. When I removed the wrap, the black stains had softened into a sludge that wiped away with shocking ease using a paper towel. The performance on deep scorch marks is genuinely impressive.

Surface Safety & Compatibility: It is absolutely critical to follow the warnings. To verify, I tested a tiny, hidden spot on an old aluminum pan, and it did cause immediate discoloration. The restriction is real. However, on my stainless steel and cast iron pot bottoms, it was incredibly effective and caused no damage. Workaround: If you’re unsure of your pot’s material, test a very small, inconspicuous spot first before applying it to the entire surface.

Application & Ease of Use: The application itself is easy, but the process is long. This isn’t for a quick 5-minute cleanup; it’s a deep restoration project you do once or twice a year on your most abused pans. Rinsing it off after the dwell time is simple and incredibly satisfying.

Best for Stainless Steel Cookware: All-Clad Powder Cleaner Review

For owners of premium cookware, the All-Clad Specialty Powder Stainless Steel Cleaner is the professional-grade choice for maintenance. Made by the renowned cookware brand All-Clad, this powder cleanser is specifically formulated to clean and polish stainless steel and aluminum pots and pans effectively without damaging their specific finishes. It’s the cleaner I trust for my most expensive pieces.

While other cleaners like Bar Keepers Friend are also great for stainless steel, this formula feels slightly less aggressive, making it the perfect solution for routine upkeep and for removing the faint, colorful “rainbow stains” (heat tint) that often appear on high-quality stainless steel.

Specifications:
* Form: Powder
* Size: 12 Ounce
* Key Use: Cleaning and polishing stainless steel and aluminum
* Not For Use On: Hard anodized, copper, or nonstick cookware
* Primary Action: Gentle Cleaning & Polishing

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Brand-Approved Formula: Coming directly from All-Clad, you can have complete confidence that this formula is perfectly calibrated for their (and other brands’) high-end stainless steel products. It gives peace of mind.
* ✅ Environmentally Safe Ingredients: A huge plus is that it’s made of natural minerals and is environmentally safe. This is a great benefit for those looking for effective, eco-friendly cleaning options.
* ✅ Excellent for Routine Maintenance: It’s perfect for removing those pesky bluish “rainbow” heat stains and white hard water spots that can make stainless steel look dull, keeping it pristine.
* ✅ Smart and Practical Container: This is a small but significant detail. The waterproof plastic container with a secure press-close sealing cap prevents the powder from clumping in a humid kitchen, unlike the cardboard cans of competitors.
* ✅ Polishes to a High Luster: It does a phenomenal job of restoring the original luster of stainless steel cookware, making it look like it just came out of the box.
* ✅ Made in the USA: For many consumers, knowing the product is manufactured in the USA is a mark of quality and trust.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Highly Specialized and Limited: Its use is explicitly restricted to stainless steel and aluminum. This makes it far less versatile than an all-purpose cleaner like The Pink Stuff.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: This is a more expensive, premium-priced option compared to a general-purpose powder cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend. You’re paying for the brand name and specialized formula.
* ❌ Requires Mixing: Like other powders, it requires the extra step of being mixed with water to form a paste, which is slightly less convenient than a ready-to-use product.

Expert’s Experience

My testing confirmed that the All-Clad Powder Cleaner is a superior choice for anyone serious about maintaining their stainless steel cookware investment.

Cleaning Performance & Formula: I used this on an All-Clad stainless steel skillet that had developed some noticeable bluish heat tint after searing steaks. I made a light paste with a few drops of water, and with gentle rubbing using a microfiber cloth, the tint vanished completely. The pan’s original bright silver luster was fully restored. Its action feels slightly gentler than Bar Keepers Friend, which makes it ideal for regular polishing.

Surface Safety & Compatibility: It is perfectly safe and highly effective on both brushed and polished stainless steel exteriors, as well as aluminum. It’s the ideal choice for anyone who might be hesitant to use a more generic, aggressive cleaner on their premium cookware.

Application & Ease of Use: The process is identical to other powder cleansers: mix with water to form a paste. It’s simple and straightforward. The paste rinses away cleanly, leaving behind no residue—only a brilliant, polished shine. The superior packaging is a real-world benefit that I appreciated every time I used it.

Best Scrubber Tool: Onewly Steel Wool Scrubber Review

Sometimes, chemical cleaners aren’t enough, and you just need pure mechanical force. The Onewly Steel Wool Scrubber Set provides the aggressive scrubbing power required for the toughest jobs, like cleaning cast iron, grill grates, or heavily soiled stock pots, all while keeping your hands clean and comfortable.

This isn’t just a simple steel wool pad; it’s a well-designed tool. The addition of an ergonomic handle completely changes the user experience, allowing you to apply more pressure with less strain. It earns its spot as the best scrubber tool because it combines effectiveness with smart design.

Specifications:
* Form: Physical Tool (Scrubber)
* Material: Stainless Steel
* Bundle: 2 handles and 4 total wire pads
* Key Use: Scrubbing stains, oils, and rust
* Primary Feature: Ergonomic Handle

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Outstanding Ergonomic Handle: The handle is the standout feature. It provides a comfortable, secure grip and keeps your hands out of direct contact with gross, greasy water and harsh detergents.
* ✅ Durable and Rust-Resistant: The scrubber pads are made from high-quality, tightly wound stainless steel. During my testing, they showed no signs of rust and didn’t fall apart or shed metal splinters like cheaper steel wool pads often do.
* ✅ Highly Effective on Tough Jobs: This is the tool for the jobs other sponges can’t handle. It’s perfect for cleaning a cast iron skillet without soap, scrubbing charred bits off grill grates, or tackling rust at the bottom of an old pot.
* ✅ Excellent Value: The set includes 2 handles and 4 total scrubber pads, which means you get two complete scrubbers plus replacements. This extends the life and value of the purchase significantly.
* ✅ Better Pressure Application: The handle design allows you to comfortably apply much more direct pressure on stubborn spots than you could with a standard pad, making scrubbing more efficient.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: The stainless steel mesh rinses clean fairly easily under hot water, getting it ready for the next tough job.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Will Absolutely Scratch Delicate Surfaces: This is an aggressive tool by design. It should NEVER be used on non-stick surfaces, polished stainless steel exteriors, enamel, or glass, as it will cause deep, permanent scratches.
* ❌ Food Can Get Trapped: Like any steel wool, very small or sticky food particles can sometimes get lodged in the woven mesh, requiring a bit more effort to rinse clean.
* ❌ For Heavy-Duty Use Only: This is not a daily dishwashing tool. It’s a specialist for tough, durable surfaces and overkill for most everyday cleaning.

Expert’s Experience

In my kitchen, having the right tool is just as important as having the right cleaner, and the Onewly Scrubber proved to be an indispensable one.

Cleaning Performance: I used this scrubber on my cast iron skillet which had some stubborn cooked-on food bits after frying. Using only hot water (no soap, to protect the seasoning), the scrubber removed the food particles with ease and did not damage the pan’s seasoned surface. It’s also become my go-to for cleaning the inside of a large stainless stockpot before I go in with a polishing cleaner. It does the heavy lifting first.

Ergonomics & Ease of Use: The handle makes a world of difference. It allows you to put your weight into the scrubbing motion comfortably and without getting your hands filthy. It simply feels much better and more effective than holding a bare, prickly steel wool pad.

Durability: After several tough scrubbing sessions on cast iron and grill grates, the wire pad remained tightly wound and showed no signs of rust, confirming its quality stainless steel construction. This is a tool built to last through many tough cleaning jobs.

Pot and Pan Cleaner Comparison Chart

To help you visualize the key differences and choose the right product at a glance, here’s how the top 5 cleaners stack up against each other.

Feature	Bar Keepers Friend	The Pink Stuff	Kitchenware Stain Cleaner	All-Clad Powder Cleaner	Onewly Scrubber
Category	Best Overall	Best All-Purpose Paste	Best for Heavy-Duty Scorch Marks	Best for Stainless Steel	Best Scrubber Tool
Form	Powder	Paste	Paste	Powder	Physical Tool
Primary Use	Stains, Tarnish, Rust	General Purpose Cleaning	Deep Scorch Marks	Polishing Stainless Steel	Aggressive Scrubbing
Non-Scratch	Yes (when used properly)	Yes	Yes (on approved surfaces)	Yes	No
Best For	Versatile, deep cleaning	Daily cleaning, delicate surfaces	Restoring burnt pans	Maintaining premium cookware	Cast iron, grills, tough rust
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Cleaner for Your Pots and Pans

Choosing the “best” cleaner is subjective because it depends entirely on the type of cookware you own, the kind of mess you’re trying to clean, and your personal preferences. A cleaner that works miracles on a stainless steel pan could ruin a non-stick skillet. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice for your kitchen.

• Cleaner Type (Powder vs. Paste): This is a primary consideration. Powder cleansers like Bar Keepers Friend are highly concentrated and can offer more abrasive power, making them great for tough stains, rust, and polishing. However, they require mixing with water and can be a bit messy. Paste cleaners like The Pink Stuff are convenient, ready-to-use, generally gentler, and less messy, making them ideal for quick, daily cleanups and more delicate surfaces.
• Your Cookware Material: This is the most critical factor.
  • Stainless Steel & Aluminum: Can handle mildly abrasive powders like BKF or the All-Clad cleaner for removing stains and polishing.
  • Cast Iron: Needs physical scrubbing, often with a steel wool tool and hot water. Avoid harsh detergents that can strip away the essential seasoning.
  • Non-Stick & Anodized Aluminum: Require gentle, non-abrasive formulas only. Never use abrasive powders or steel wool on these surfaces, as you will destroy the coating.
  • Enamel (like a Dutch Oven): Use a non-abrasive paste like The Pink Stuff. Abrasives can dull and damage the glossy finish.
  • Copper: Requires a specialized copper polish to prevent tarnish and discoloration.
• The Type of Stain You’re Facing: Match your cleaner to your problem. Are you dealing with a fresh greasy mess from dinner, or a thick, black, carbonized layer that’s been building up for months? For daily grease and food film, a simple paste or dish soap is fine. For burnt-on food or heat discoloration, a powder cleanser is better. For extreme, caked-on scorch marks, you need a specialized decomposer like the Kitchenware Stain Cleaner.
• Abrasiveness vs. Non-Abrasive: Abrasive cleaners work by physically scrubbing the stain away. This is highly effective but carries the risk of scratching the surface if used improperly or on the wrong material. Non-abrasive cleaners use chemical action (like degreasers or mild acids) to dissolve stains and are safer for polished finishes and delicate materials. Always start with the least abrasive method first.
• Ingredients and Safety: If you prefer eco-friendly or non-toxic options, look for cleaners made from natural minerals, like the All-Clad powder, or consider using simple household items like baking soda and vinegar for light cleaning. Always clean in a well-ventilated area and rinse your cookware thoroughly with fresh water after using any cleaner to remove all residue.

FAQs About Cleaning Pots and Pans

What is the best cleaner for pots and pans?

The best overall cleaner for its combination of power and versatility is Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser. It effectively cleans a wide variety of stains, including rust, tarnish, and burnt-on food, on many different cookware materials like stainless steel, aluminum, and even glass bakeware. It is consistently rated as a top choice by both home cooks and professionals.

How do you clean the bottom of a burnt pot?

For extreme scorch marks on the bottom of a pot, use a specialized heavy-duty cleaner formulated for carbon buildup, like the Kitchenware Stain Cleaner. The process involves applying a thick paste, covering it with plastic wrap to keep it moist, and letting it sit for several hours to chemically break down the carbon. After the waiting period, the burnt layer should wipe away easily.

Is The Pink Stuff better than Bar Keepers Friend?

Neither is “better”; they excel at different things. The Pink Stuff is a gentler, non-abrasive paste that is ideal for all-purpose daily cleaning and for use on delicate surfaces where scratching is a concern. Bar Keepers Friend is a more powerful, mildly abrasive powder that is superior for tackling tough stains, rust, and tarnish, and for polishing durable metal cookware to a high shine. Many kitchens benefit from having both.

Is Bar Keepers Friend safe for stainless steel?

Yes, Bar Keepers Friend is one of the most highly recommended and safest cleaners for stainless steel cookware. When mixed into a paste and used with a soft cloth or sponge, it effectively removes stains, tarnish, and heat discoloration, polishing the surface without scratching. It’s a go-to for professionals and home cooks for restoring the shine to stainless steel.

Can you use baking soda to clean pots?

Yes, baking soda is an excellent, mild abrasive for cleaning pots and pans. Making a paste with baking soda and a little water is very effective for removing light grease, food film, and minor stains. For an extra cleaning boost on tougher stains, you can add a little dish soap or a splash of white vinegar to the baking soda paste.

What do chefs use to clean their pots and pans?

In many professional kitchens, chefs rely on a combination of speed, power, and durability. For tough debris, they often use aggressive tools like stainless steel scrubbers. For deep cleaning, polishing, and removing stubborn stains on their workhorse stainless steel and aluminum pans, classic and effective powders like Bar Keepers Friend are a very common sight.

How do I clean my pans without scratching them?

To clean pans without scratching, always use a non-abrasive cleaner like The Pink Stuff or a soft powder cleaner mixed into a smooth paste. Crucially, apply it with a soft cloth, a non-abrasive sponge, or a microfiber towel. Never use steel wool, green scouring pads, or any harsh abrasive on non-stick, enamel, copper, or highly polished stainless steel surfaces.

How do I restore the shine to my stainless steel pans?

Use a dedicated polishing cleanser like Bar Keepers Friend or All-Clad’s specialty powder. Make a thin paste with water, and using a soft cloth, rub it gently onto the pan in the direction of the metal’s grain. This will remove the dullness and “rainbow” heat stains. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry immediately with a clean towel to prevent water spots and reveal the restored luster.

Can I use oven cleaner on my pots and pans?

No, it is strongly recommended that you do not use oven cleaner on your cookware. Oven cleaners contain extremely harsh and caustic chemicals (like lye) that are designed for durable oven interiors. These chemicals can permanently damage or discolor the finish of your pots and pans, especially those made of aluminum, copper, or with non-stick coatings.

What is the best way to clean cast iron?

The best way to clean cast iron is to scrub it with a stiff brush or a dedicated chainmail/steel wool scrubber, like the Onewly Scrubber, using only hot water, preferably right after cooking. Avoid using dish soap whenever possible, as it can strip the pan’s protective seasoning. After cleaning, dry the pan completely on the stovetop over low heat, then wipe a very thin layer of cooking oil inside to maintain the seasoning.

My Final Verdict on the Best Pot and Pan Cleaners

After countless hours of scrubbing, soaking, and polishing during my four-week evaluation, it’s abundantly clear that having the right cleaner for the job is the secret to cookware maintenance. While every product on this list is a winner for its specific purpose, my final recommendations are designed to cover the most common and frustrating cleaning challenges you’ll face in the kitchen.

For its sheer power, versatility, and incredible value, my top recommendation is unwavering.

This cleaner is perfect for you if…
* You primarily use stainless steel or aluminum cookware.
* You frequently deal with tough stains, discoloration, or burnt-on food.
* You want one product that can both deep clean and polish.
* You appreciate a product with a long-standing, trusted reputation.

This cleaner may not be ideal for…
* You exclusively use non-stick or delicate enamel cookware.
* You want a pre-mixed, ready-to-use cleaner for quick jobs.
* You are sensitive to fine powders.

My top recommendation is Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish. Its ability to remove rust, cut through baked-on grime, and restore a brilliant shine makes it an absolutely essential item for any kitchen.

If you have more delicate surfaces or strongly prefer the convenience and gentleness of a pre-mixed paste for everyday cleaning, then The Pink Stuff is an excellent and safe alternative. Ultimately, investing in a quality cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend will not only make your cleanup tasks easier but will also extend the life and beauty of your favorite pots and pans for years to come.

Last update on 2026-02-21 at 16:38 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API