You’re frying up your usual breakfast eggs, but they don’t seem to release as effortlessly as they usually do. Or maybe you’re doing the dishes after dinner when you realize the pan feels greasy, even after a few rounds of scrubbing. No matter how much dish soap or elbow grease you put in, your trusty ceramic nonstick pan isn’t as smooth and slick as it used to be.

If you find yourself wondering, “Why is my pan sticky?” — don’t worry, you’re not alone. A sticky nonstick pan is a common kitchen dilemma, but it’s also an easy fix (and preventable!). Here’s everything you need to know about why nonstick pans get sticky and how to restore them to their nonstick best.

You’re frying up your usual breakfast eggs, but they don’t seem to release as effortlessly as they usually do. Or maybe you’re doing the dishes after dinner when you realize the pan feels greasy, even after a few rounds of scrubbing. No matter how much dish soap or elbow grease you put in, your trusty ceramic nonstick pan isn’t as smooth and slick as it used to be.

If you find yourself wondering, “Why is my pan sticky?” — don’t worry, you’re not alone. A sticky nonstick pan is a common kitchen dilemma, but it’s also an easy fix (and preventable!). Here’s everything you need to know about why nonstick pans get sticky and how to restore them to their nonstick best.

Restoring a sticky nonstick pan is an easy and straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step on how to get sticky grease off pans:

1. Soak the pan in warm, soapy water to help loosen stubborn residue.
2. After soaking, use a soft non-abrasive sponge (not steel wool or anything scratchy) with mild dish soap to gently scrub the pan.
3. Deglaze the pan if it still feels sticky. Boil water with a few tablespoons of baking soda. Once it cools, scrub gently using the paste. This method helps dissolve lingering residue that’s tough to remove.
4. For tougher, stuck-on residue, create a baking soda and vinegar paste. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing thoroughly. This technique also works wonders for drips and stains on the pan’s exterior (though some natural patina over time is normal).

Dry the pan with a towel or let it air dry completely before storing it.

Use the Right Utensils
Opt for wood or silicone utensils that won’t scratch or damage the nonstick coating. Save the metal utensils for steel pans like the Titanium Always Pan® Pro.

Skip the Dishwasher
Hand wash your pan with a soft sponge to preserve its nonstick properties.

Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Stay away from abrasive cleaners, which can strip away the nonstick layer.

Let It Cool Before Washing
Always allow your pan to cool completely before cleaning. Washing a hot pan can cause thermal shock, which may warp or damage the surface.

Store with Care
Don’t stack pans directly on top of one another. Place something soft, like a paper towel or pan separator, in between them to prevent unwanted scratches.

A sticky nonstick pan can be frustrating, but with a little care and effort, it doesn’t have to happen regularly. By following these tips for restoration and proper care, you can prolong the life of your nonstick pans. However, if you’ve tried everything and your food still sticks, especially after a few years of regular use, it might be time to retire your old pan and invest in a new one. With mindful care, your next nonstick pan can stay sleek and reliable, helping you create mess-free meals for years to come.