Quck answer
To recoat a non-stick pan, follow these steps:
1. Clean the pan thoroughly with warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge.
2. Rinse the pan and dry it completely.
3. Apply a thin layer of cooking oil or vegetable shortening to the entire surface of the pan, including the sides.
4. Use a paper towel to evenly spread the oil, removing any excess.
5. Preheat the pan on low heat for a few minutes, allowing the oil to bond with the pan’s surface.
6. Let the pan cool down and wipe off any remaining oil.
7. Your non-stick pan is now recoated and ready to use again.
Time spent in the kitchen should be focused on creating delicious meals and enjoying them with loved ones, rather than struggling to clean stuck-on food from your cookware. Non-stick pans make cleanup easier, but over time, the coating may start to deteriorate. While it is possible to have the pan recoated, this is a complex process that cannot be done at home. You will need to decide whether to pay for professional recoating, remove the failing coating, or replace the pan entirely.
Application of Non-Stick Coatings
Understanding how non-stick coatings are applied to cookware makes it clear why recoating pans is not a DIY task. Cookware manufacturers must first prepare the surface of the pots and pans to receive the non-stick coating. This involves washing the pans with a strong grease-removing detergent. The metal is then immersed in hydrochloric acid, which roughens the surface of the pan through etching.
Any dust or metal particles remaining from the etching process are removed by rinsing the pan in nitric acid followed by plain water. Once dried, several thin layers of the non-stick chemical polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon, are sprayed or rolled onto the pan. After applying the desired number of PTFE layers, the cookware is baked to cure the coating. The oven temperature starts low to evaporate any water in the PTFE coating and then increases to around 800 degrees Fahrenheit for the PTFE to gel through a process called sintering.
Repairing Non-Stick Coating
If your pan begins to stick, the first step is to check the warranty. Many reputable cookware brands, such as Calphalon and Pampered Chef, offer lifetime guarantees on their products. Contact the manufacturer to inquire about free repair or replacement options.
If a free replacement is not available, you can explore the option of having your pan professionally resurfaced. Numerous companies specialize in reapplying non-stick coatings to worn cookware, and you may even find local businesses offering this service. However, it is important to note that the original manufacturer may also offer this service, although it can be quite expensive.
For example, the Australian company Surface Technology charges $46 AUD to recoat the inside of a medium-sized frying pan. However, shipping costs can add up, with fees of $25 or more to send the pan and another $25 to have it shipped back from Australia. In total, the recoating process could cost $100 or more. On the other hand, a high-end replacement pan from the Cristel company ranges from $105 to $138, making it potentially more cost-effective to replace the pan instead of recoating it.
Removing Non-Stick Coating
Unfortunately, there is ongoing debate about whether non-stick pans pose a cancer risk. The manufacturing process of non-stick coatings involves the use of a chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). While finished cookware typically contains very little PFOA, some studies have linked this chemical to cancer. It is generally believed that if non-stick coatings do present a cancer risk, it is more likely when the coating is scratched or begins to peel.
If you want to be cautious, it’s best to avoid using damaged nonstick pots and pans. However, if you really like your pan and its features, you can consider removing the damaged coating so you can still use it. A local sandblaster can help you remove the remaining coating, although the pan will no longer be inherently nonstick. You can still use nonstick cooking sprays and oils to prevent food from sticking.
To make your nonstick pans last longer, choose high-quality cookware with good reviews and long or lifetime warranties. While it doesn’t have to be expensive, opting for the cheapest option may not give you the best results. If your budget allows, consider professional-grade cookware.
When you bring your new cookware home, take steps to protect it. Always place a paper towel or pan protector between stacked pots and pans to avoid scratches, and use plastic or nylon cooking utensils. Cook over low or medium heat instead of high heat. Avoid using nonstick cooking sprays as they create a difficult-to-remove buildup.
When cleaning nonstick pans, wash them by hand unless the instructions state that they are dishwasher safe. Use microfiber cloths and soft sponges for washing.
If you’re worried about the potential dangers of nonstick cookware, you can choose cast iron pots and pans instead. When properly seasoned, cast iron can develop a nonstick finish without any chemicals or coatings.
To season a cast iron pan, thoroughly wash it in hot soapy water and remove any food debris. Dry it completely and apply a thin layer of vegetable shortening on the inside. Place tin foil on the bottom oven rack to catch any drips, and put the pan upside down in the middle rack. Bake at 375 degrees F for one hour and let it cool in the oven.
Now you have a chemical-free nonstick pan. After each use, rinse it with warm water and use a plastic spatula if needed to remove any remaining food debris. Avoid using soap and make sure to dry the pan thoroughly to prevent rust.
