How To Clean Ceramic Cookware And Keep It Performing Like New
Author: Hamlet Fort | April 28, 2025 | Time to read: 5 min
Cleaning ceramic cookware is simple once you know the best techniques. A quick rinse, gentle soap, and the right tools are usually all it takes to keep your pots and pans as good as new. But over time, food particles, oils, or high heat can cause stains and residue to build up.
The good news? With a few easy habits, you can keep ceramic nonstick pans performing beautifully — no scrubbing required. Here’s everything you need to know about how to clean ceramic cookware and help it last for years.
How to Clean Ceramic Cookware: Step-by-Step
1. Let It Cool Down Before cleaning, always allow your cookware to return to room temperature. Sudden temperature changes — like running cold water over a still-hot pan — can stress the ceramic coating.
2. Use Warm, Soapy Water and a Soft Sponge Ceramic nonstick doesn’t need heavy scrubbing. A gentle sponge and a few drops of dish soap will do the trick. Avoid steel wool, abrasive pads, or gritty cleansers.
3. Rinse and Dry Thoroughly Rinse away soap with warm water, then dry with a soft towel or air dry completely before putting your cookware away.
Pro Tip: Skip the dishwasher. High heat and harsh detergents can damage the ceramic coating over time.
Removing Stains or Residue From Ceramic Cookware
Even after doing everything you right, you might still notice some residue or discoloration after repeated cooking. Here’s how to clean stains on ceramic cookware without damaging the surface.
For burnt-on bits and sticky buildup:
Fill the pan with water and add 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
Bring it to a gentle simmer on the stovetop.
Let cool, then wash as usual with a soft sponge.
For oil residue or exterior stains:
Make a paste of 2 tablespoons baking soda and 1 tablespoon white vinegar.
Gently scrub stained areas with a soft cloth or sponge.
Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Stains happen, they’re a sign of a well-loved pan! With gentle care, they’re easy to manage.
How Often Should You Clean Ceramic Cookware?
Hand wash your ceramic cookware after every use to remove food particles and prevent sticky buildup.
Periodically check for stains or discoloration and give your pan a gentle deep clean when needed.
Before using a brand-new ceramic pan or pot, wash it in warm, soapy water, rinse well, and dry with a soft cloth. This helps remove any dust from the manufacturing or shipping process.
Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Ceramic Cookware
We get it, the dishwasher is tempting. But most ceramic-coated cookware will last much longer when washed by hand. The coating simply isn’t designed for repeated high-heat, high-pressure cycles.
Instead, a quick rinse and gentle wipe is usually all it takes. That’s the beauty of ceramic nonstick.
Proper use is just as important as cleaning for extending the life of your ceramic nonstick cookware. Here’s how to protect your pan while you’re cooking:
Preheat smart: Preheat your pan on low to medium heat for about a minute before adding oil. This reduces hot spots and helps prevent sticking.
Use the right oils: Avoid aerosol sprays; choose high-smoke-point oils like avocado or grapeseed.
Stick with soft utensils: Wood or silicone tools are your best bet — metal can scratch the surface.
Store with care: Avoid stacking unprotected pans. If you’re tight on space, add a cloth or paper towel between them.
Bonus: Our cookware includes built-in details like spatula rests and pour spouts to make everyday use (and cleaning) even easier.
What Not To Do When Cleaning Ceramic Cookware
To keep your ceramic cookware safe and nonstick, avoid these common mistakes:
Do not shock a hot pan with cold water.
Do not use bleach, oven cleaners, or harsh detergents.
Do not cut food directly in the pan with a knife.
Do not use aerosol cooking sprays as they can leave behind residue when exposed to heat.
Do not cook at excessively high temperatures, which will cause burning and shorten the life of your ceramic nonstick coating.
Do not stack pans without protection; if space is tight, place a cloth between them.
Better Cookware for Better Cooking
Caring for ceramic cookware is easy and it makes a real difference. We believe that when your cookware performs well, you’ll probably cook more often. Which means more meals shared, more stories swapped, and more time at the table with the people you love.
See the Always Pan In Action
FAQs
What is the best cleaner for ceramic cookware?
Warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft sponge are best. Avoid abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh chemicals like bleach.
Can you use vinegar to clean ceramic cookware?
Yes — diluted white vinegar is safe for most ceramic coatings. It’s especially helpful for lifting mineral stains or discoloration on the exterior.
How do you remove burnt or brown stains from ceramic pans?
Use a baking soda and water paste, or simmer baking soda and water in the pan. Avoid scrubbing aggressively — the coating is delicate.