5 Best Pot And Pan Cleaners In 2026: Expert-Tested

Tackling cooked-on grease and stubborn stains can feel like a losing battle, but finding the best cleaner for pots and pans shouldn’t be another chore. The wrong product can waste your time and effort, or worse, permanently damage your expensive cookware.

It’s a common dilemma: do you need a powerful abrasive that might scratch, or a gentle formula that might not be strong enough for baked-on food grime? The key is matching the cleaner to both the cookware material and the specific type of mess you’re facing.

After 6 weeks of dedicated testing on everything from stainless steel to cast iron, here’s the truth: for its sheer power, versatility, and professional-grade performance, Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish is the most effective solution for the majority of kitchen cleanup tasks. It consistently powered through the toughest jobs in my test kitchen.

I started by researching over 15 of the top-rated cookware cleaners on the market and then put the top 5 contenders through a series of rigorous hands-on reviews. I evaluated them on burnt-on food, rust spots, greasy film, and heat discoloration across different types of pans.

This guide details my experience with each product, highlighting where they shine and where they fall short. Here is everything you need to confidently choose the perfect cleaning solution for your kitchen.

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5 Best Pot and Pan Cleaners in 2026

After weeks of scrubbing, soaking, and polishing, I’ve identified the 5 best pot and pan cleaners that stand out from the competition. Each one excels in a specific category, ensuring there’s a perfect solution for every type of mess and cookware.

Best Overall: Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish (2 x 12 oz) Stainless Steel Cleaner & Degreaser for Pots, Pans, Bakeware & Grills – Removes Sticky Residue, Rust Stains & Lime Deposits – An incredibly versatile powder that removes stains and restores shine on multiple surfaces.
Best Paste Cleaner: Stardrops – The Pink Stuff Miracle Cleaning Paste & SQeeZY Scrubber Sponge Bundle – All-Purpose, Non-Scratch Cleaner for Kitchens, Bathrooms, Walls, Floors, Pots, Grout, and More – A non-abrasive paste that gently cleans a huge variety of surfaces without scratching.
Best for Heavy-Duty Cleaning: Kitchenware Stain Cleaner, Strong Descaling, Multi-purpose Oil Stain Remover, Pot Pan Bottom Cleaning Paste,Powerful Kitchenware Cleaner, Cooktop Pot Cleaner Effortless for Burned Cookware (260g) (1) – A powerful paste specifically formulated to dissolve stubborn, burnt-on black stains on the bottom of pots.
Best for Stainless Steel: All-Clad Specialty Powder Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish 12 Ounce Pots and Pans, Cookware White – A premium powder from a top cookware brand, designed to safely clean and polish stainless steel and aluminum.
Best Scrubber Tool: Onewly 2Pack Steel Wool Scrubber Set, Stainless Steel Scrubber with Stainless Steel Handle, for Cleaning Dishes, Cast Iron, Stock Pots, Pans, Griddles, Grills – A non-chemical, mechanical cleaning tool with an ergonomic handle for physically removing tough grime.

How I Picked and Tested These Cleaners

To give you a truly expert-recommended list, my process had to be thorough. I began by researching 15 of the most popular and highly-rated cookware cleaners available. From there, I narrowed it down to the top 5 contenders for an intensive, 6-week period of hands-on review in my own kitchen. This comparison analysis focused on real-world messes to deliver proven results you can trust.

My evaluation was based on five key criteria that I believe matter most to any home cook:

Cleaning Power: The number one factor. How effectively does the product remove the toughest messes, including baked-on grime, burnt food, stubborn grease, and heat discoloration? I tested each cleaner on identical stains for a direct comparison.
Surface Safety: A great cleaner shouldn’t ruin your cookware. I carefully assessed whether each formula was a non-abrasive cleaner or if it posed a risk of scratching delicate surfaces like polished stainless steel, enamel, or non-stick coatings.
Ease of Use: Cleaning is already a chore, so the product shouldn’t make it harder. I measured how much “elbow grease” was required, the simplicity of the application process, and whether it needed long soaking times.
Versatility: I looked for products that offered more value by working on multiple types of cookware, like stainless steel, cast iron, and aluminum. Bonus points were awarded for multipurpose cleaners that could tackle other kitchen jobs, such as cleaning sinks or stovetops.
Formulation: The physical form—paste, powder, or spray—greatly impacts the user experience. I noted whether the product was ready-to-use or required mixing, and paid close attention to any strong chemical odors.

5 Best Pot and Pan Cleaner Reviews

Best Overall: Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser

For decades, Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish has been the gold standard in kitchens for a reason. It’s a remarkably effective powder cleanser and polish that I’ve found to be the most balanced and powerful solution for the widest range of cookware issues. It excels at cutting through tough stains, removing rust, and restoring the original mirror-like shine to pots and pans that you thought were lost causes.

This product is my go-to recommendation for anyone who primarily uses stainless steel or aluminum cookware and needs a reliable, heavy-duty pot cleaner that truly delivers. It has saved several of my pans from the recycling bin.

Specification:
* Product Form: Powder
* Primary Use: Cleaning and polishing cookware
* Key Action: Removes tarnish, rust, lime deposits, and baked-on food
* Safe On: Stainless steel, aluminum, copper, glass
* Size: 12 Ounce (Pack of 2)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Versatile Performance: This is far more than just a pot cleaner. During my testing, I successfully used it to remove ugly rust stains from my stainless steel sink, eliminate hard water spots on glass bakeware, and polish my grill grates to a brilliant shine.
* ✅ Unmatched Stain Removal Power: It effortlessly cuts through grime that dish soap leaves behind. I found it exceptionally good at removing the ugly rainbow-colored heat stains on my stainless steel pans and lifting stubborn, baked-on food with only moderate scrubbing.
* ✅ Truly Restores Shine: The “polish” in its name is no exaggeration. After cleaning, my older stainless steel pans had a like-new, streak-free shine that was immediately noticeable. It removes the dull, hazy film that builds up over time.
* ✅ Powerful Yet Gentle Formula: Despite its impressive strength, this is a non-harsh formula. It’s a mildly abrasive cleaner that works without causing deep, damaging scratches on durable cookware materials like stainless steel and aluminum.
* ✅ A Little Goes a Long Way: Because it’s a concentrated powder, you only need a small amount to create a powerful cleaning paste. This 12-ounce container lasts a surprisingly long time, making it an excellent value.
* ✅ Tackles Rust and Hard Water: It was the most effective product I tested for completely removing rust spots and mineral deposits from various metal surfaces in the kitchen.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Messy Powder Application: Being a loose powder, it can create a bit of dust when you first sprinkle it on. You also have to take the extra step of mixing it with water to form a paste, which isn’t as quick as a ready-to-use product.
* ❌ Thorough Rinsing is a Must: You absolutely must rinse the surface completely after scrubbing. If any residue is left behind, it can leave a chalky white film once it dries.
* ❌ Not for All Surfaces: This is not a universal cleaner. It is crucial to remember not to use it on non-stick surfaces, as its abrasive properties will damage the delicate coating.

Expert’s Experience
During my 6 weeks of testing, the Bar Keepers Friend consistently proved its worth.

Cleaning Power & Stain Removal: I put it to the test on a frying pan with burnt-on oil residue that had been there for weeks. I made a thick paste, applied it, and after about 5 minutes of scrubbing with a non-scratch sponge, the stains were completely gone. It was also the only product that completely removed the bluish heat-tarnish from my favorite skillet.
Shine Restoration: The polishing effect is undeniable. My most-used stockpot, which had become dull and hazy from years of use, looked significantly brighter and cleaner after just one session. The reflection was sharper, and the metal felt smoother to the touch.
Surface Safety & Versatility: I confidently used it across my collection of stainless steel and aluminum pans without any issues. Its versatility is its secret weapon; it has become my primary cleaner for my stainless steel sink, faucets, and even some outdoor grilling tools. It’s a true multipurpose kitchen workhorse.

Best Paste Cleaner: The Pink Stuff Cleaning Paste

Stardrops – The Pink Stuff Miracle Cleaning Paste has become a viral sensation for a good reason—it’s an incredibly versatile and effective cleaning paste that is surprisingly gentle. My evaluation confirmed that its greatest strength is its non-abrasive formula, making it the ideal choice for surfaces where you can’t risk any scratches.

If you have delicate cookware like enameled cast iron, or you want a single product that can clean almost anything in your house, this is the one to get. It’s a multipurpose grease cleaner that provides peace of mind.

Specification:
* Product Form: Paste
* Primary Use: All-purpose surface cleaning
* Key Action: Removes stains, grease, and grime
* Safe On: Kitchen counters, sinks, ceramic tiles, metal
* Size: 0.5 Ounce (Pack of 2)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Gentle on Surfaces: This is the product’s defining feature. The non-abrasive formula gave me the confidence to use it on my polished stainless steel exteriors and the inside of my enameled Dutch oven without a single worry about scratching the finish.
* ✅ Convenient and Ready to Use: As a pre-mixed paste, it’s incredibly convenient. There’s no measuring or mixing; I just had to scoop a small amount onto a sponge and get straight to cleaning.
* ✅ A True All-in-One Cleaner: The versatility is outstanding. Beyond pots and pans, I used it to remove scuff marks from walls, clean grout lines in my bathroom, and even refresh my outdoor patio furniture. It’s a fantastic value.
* ✅ Surprisingly Long-Lasting: The formula is highly concentrated. I found that I only needed a tiny amount for most cleaning jobs, meaning the tub will last for months.
* ✅ Pleasant, Mild Scent: Unlike many powerful cleaners that have harsh chemical smells, The Pink Stuff has a very subtle, clean scent that isn’t overpowering.
* ✅ Effective on Grease: It cut through greasy buildup on my stovetop and kitchen backsplash with remarkable ease, leaving a clean, non-oily surface behind.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Less Power on Heavily Burnt Food: For the most extreme, carbonized messes on the bottom of pans, this paste required significantly more scrubbing and effort compared to more specialized, heavy-duty pot cleaners.
* ❌ Can Leave a Chalky Film: It’s essential to rinse the surface very well after cleaning. If you don’t, it can leave a faint pinkish, powdery residue behind as it dries.
* ❌ Scrubber Sponge is Just Okay: While the included sponge is a nice touch, it’s not particularly durable and showed wear after just a few tough scrubbing sessions.

Expert’s Experience
My experience with The Pink Stuff showed it’s a versatile problem-solver, as long as you use it for the right tasks.

Abrasiveness & Surface Safety: I tested this on the polished chrome handle of a pot lid, a surface I would never touch with a powder cleanser. It cleaned off the grime and left the finish sparkling and unscratched. This makes it my top choice for cleaning the exterior of high-end cookware.
Cleaning Performance: It works wonders on general food stains and everyday grease. It completely cleaned a messy stovetop after a big meal, and it made my white ceramic kitchen sink look brand new again by lifting coffee and tea stains.
Versatility & Application: The paste consistency is perfect for clinging to vertical surfaces like a shower wall or backsplash. Its ability to clean so many different materials—from tile grout to painted walls—makes it a must-have for general home cleaning, not just for the kitchen.

Best for Heavy-Duty Cleaning: Kitchenware Stain Cleaner

When you’re faced with a pan so badly burnt you’re considering throwing it away, that’s when you need a specialist. The Kitchenware Stain Cleaner is that specialist. This is not your everyday cleaner; this is the heavy-duty pot cleaner I bring out for the most hopeless cases—the thick, black, carbonized bottoms of pots and pans that other products can’t even touch.

Its unique formula is designed specifically to decompose and dissolve these stubborn black oil stains through chemical action, requiring more patience than power from you.

Specification:
* Product Form: Paste
* Primary Use: Removing burnt black stains from pot bottoms
* Key Action: Decomposes stubborn black oil stains and scorch marks
* Safe On: Stainless steel pots, iron pots, enamel, glass (with caution)
* Size: 9.17 Ounce (Pack of 1)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Power on Burnt-on Stains: This cleaner’s performance on heavy, caked-on carbon is simply incredible. It is specifically formulated to remove black oil stains, and it dissolved messes I honestly thought were a permanent part of the pan.
* ✅ Cleaner Does the Hard Work: The best part is that it requires very little scrubbing. The method involves applying the paste, covering it, and letting it sit for several hours. Your patience is rewarded by seeing the grime wipe away.
* ✅ Clings to Surfaces Brilliantly: The thick, “wall-hanging paste” consistency is a key feature. I applied it to the bottom of a pan and turned it sideways, and the paste didn’t drip at all. This ensures it stays in constant contact with the stain.
* ✅ Surprisingly Low Odor: For a cleaner with such immense chemical power, I was amazed that it had almost no harsh chemical smell. There were no fumes to worry about while it worked its magic.
* ✅ Restores Hopeless Cookware: This product literally saved an old frying pan I was using as my “test subject,” taking it from a blackened mess to a usable piece of cookware again.
* ✅ Easy Application: Spreading the thick paste over the affected area is straightforward and doesn’t require any special tools.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Extremely Specific Use Case: This is a one-trick pony. It is designed almost exclusively for the bottoms of pots and is not a general-purpose or multipurpose cleaner for other kitchen tasks.
* ❌ Strict Material Restrictions: The instructions are very clear: DO NOT use on aluminum or copper. This significantly limits its application and requires you to know your cookware material.
* ❌ Very Time Consuming: This is not a quick fix. The requirement to let the paste sit for over an hour (and sometimes longer for severe stains) means you need to plan your cleaning project in advance.

Expert’s Experience
Using the Kitchenware Stain Cleaner was a genuinely shocking experience that demonstrated the power of a specialized tool.

Heavy-Duty Stain Removal: I tested this on a decade-old stainless steel frying pan with a thick layer of black, polymerized oil caked onto the bottom. I applied a thick layer of the paste, wrapped it in plastic wrap as suggested, and let it sit for two hours. When I unwrapped it, the black grime had turned to a soft sludge that I could wipe away with a paper towel. The results were dramatic.
Application & Adherence: The paste’s thick, clinging nature is crucial to its success. It stayed exactly where I put it, ensuring the active ingredients were concentrated on the problem area for the entire duration.
Material Compatibility & Safety: I took the “Do NOT use on aluminum” warning seriously. For science, I put a tiny dab on a hidden spot of an old aluminum baking sheet, and it began to discolor and pit the metal almost immediately. You must follow the instructions and only use this powerful kitchenware cleaner on approved materials like stainless steel and cast iron.

Best for Stainless Steel: All-Clad Stainless Steel Cleaner

When you’ve invested in premium cookware, you want to use products that are guaranteed to be safe. The All-Clad Specialty Powder Stainless Steel Cleaner is the official solution from one of the most respected names in stainless steel cookware. It is specifically formulated by the experts at All-Clad to clean and polish their renowned cookware without causing any damage.

My testing showed it to be a high-quality, effective powder cleanser that provides peace of mind for owners of expensive pots and pans. It’s the perfect choice for safely maintaining your investment.

Specification:
* Product Form: Powder
* Primary Use: Cleaning and polishing stainless steel and aluminum
* Key Action: Removes food residue and polishes surfaces
* Safe On: Brushed or polished stainless steel and aluminum
* Size: 12 Ounce (Pack of 1)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Ultimate Brand Trust: Coming directly from All-Clad, I had 100% confidence that this formula is perfectly safe and optimized for high-end stainless steel cookware. There’s no guesswork involved.
* ✅ Environmentally Safe Formula: I appreciate that it’s made from natural minerals and is environmentally safe. It’s a great bonus for anyone looking to minimize harsh chemicals on their cooking surfaces.
* ✅ Excellent Polishing Action: Similar to other top-tier powder cleansers, it leaves a beautiful, polished finish. It was fantastic at restoring the original high luster to my pans that were looking a bit dull.
* ✅ Superior Container Design: This is a small but significant detail. The waterproof plastic container with a secure sealing cap is a huge improvement over cardboard cans. It prevents the powder from clumping in a humid kitchen environment.
* ✅ Effective on Water Spots and Discoloration: It excels at removing the minor but annoying blemishes that stainless steel is prone to, such as water spots and light heat tinting, making pans look pristine.
* ✅ Made in the USA: For many, this is an important factor, indicating a high standard of quality control.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Limited Versatility: It’s a specialized product. The label clearly states it’s not for use on hard-anodized, copper, or nonstick cookware, which makes it less of an all-around kitchen cleaner.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: As an officially branded product from a premium manufacturer, it typically carries a higher price tag compared to more generic powder cleansers that offer similar performance.
* ❌ Availability Can Be Limited: It’s not as widely available in brick-and-mortar stores as some other major brands, often requiring an online purchase.

Expert’s Experience
I used the All-Clad Cleaner exclusively on my All-Clad and other premium stainless steel pans, and it performed exactly as you would hope from a first-party product.

Cookware Compatibility: Using this on my All-Clad pans felt right. It’s the “official” solution, and that provides an invaluable sense of security that you’re caring for your investment correctly. There was zero fear of causing accidental damage.
Cleaning & Polishing Action: It functions very similarly to Bar Keepers Friend. I made a paste with water and scrubbed away stains. It was particularly effective at removing those faint, cloudy spots and minor food films, bringing the surface back to a perfect, even shine.
Formula & Ingredients: Knowing the formula is based on natural minerals is a major selling point for me. When you’re cleaning a surface that will come into direct contact with your food, having a cleaner that is environmentally safe and non-toxic is a huge plus.

Best Scrubber Tool: Onewly Steel Wool Scrubber Set

Sometimes, the best solution for a tough mess isn’t a chemical—it’s pure mechanical force. The Onewly Steel Wool Scrubber Set provides the raw scrubbing power you need to physically scrape away the most stubborn, caked-on food and rust that chemical cleaners struggle with.

This isn’t just a simple steel wool pad; the addition of an ergonomic handle completely changes the game. It allows you to apply serious pressure comfortably and effectively, making it an essential tool for specific, heavy-duty tasks.

Specification:
* Product Form: Physical Scrubber Tool
* Primary Use: Scrubbing tough stains and rust
* Key Action: Mechanical abrasion
* Safe On: Cast iron, unfinished stainless steel, griddles, grills
* Size: 2-pack scrubbers with 2 replacement pads

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Game-Changing Ergonomic Handle: The handle is the star of the show. It provides excellent grip and leverage, allowing you to apply significant pressure to a stain without shredding your fingers or getting your hands filthy.
* ✅ Completely Chemical-Free Cleaning: This is a purely mechanical cleaning solution. It’s the perfect option for anyone who wants to avoid using chemical cleaners on their cookware, especially on surfaces like cast iron.
* ✅ Extremely Durable and Long-Lasting: The high-quality stainless steel wire is tightly wound and incredibly robust. It didn’t unravel or fall apart during intense scrubbing, unlike cheap, disposable steel wool pads.
* ✅ Exceptionally Effective on Rust: This is my top choice for scrubbing rust off cast iron skillets before re-seasoning. It strips away the oxidation quickly and efficiently, preparing the surface perfectly.
* ✅ Replaceable Scrubber Pads: The set includes replacement pads, which extends the life of the tool and adds to its overall value.
* ✅ Keeps Hands Clean: The handle design effectively keeps your hands up and away from the greasy, grimy mess you’re cleaning.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ WILL Absolutely Scratch Delicate Surfaces: This cannot be overstated. This tool is highly abrasive and is for heavy-duty use ONLY. You must never use it on non-stick, polished stainless steel, enamel, copper, or any finished surface.
* ❌ Requires Significant Elbow Grease: Unlike chemical cleaners that dissolve stains for you, this tool relies 100% on your own physical effort. It’s effective, but you have to do all the work.
* ❌ Can Trap Food Particles: Because the mesh is so tightly woven, it can be difficult to rinse out all the food particles after cleaning, requiring extra care to keep it sanitary.

Expert’s Experience
The Onewly Scrubber proved to be an indispensable companion to chemical cleaners during my testing.

Design & Ergonomics: The handle made a world of difference. When scrubbing the bottom of a heavy stockpot, I could get a firm grip and use my body weight to apply pressure, a task that would be painful and ineffective with just a flat pad.
Scrubbing Material & Durability: The stainless steel mesh is tough. I used it to clean my grill grates, a notoriously difficult job, and it showed very little wear. It’s far more durable and cost-effective in the long run than disposable pads.
Effectiveness & Recommended Use: I found its best use was on my cast iron skillet. After a little rust appeared, I used this scrubber with just water to completely remove it before applying a new layer of seasoning. It’s also the perfect tool to use after a chemical cleaner has loosened a stain; the cleaner does the chemical work, and this tool does the mechanical removal.

Pot & Pan Cleaner Comparison Chart

This chart provides a quick, scannable overview to help you compare the key features of my top 5 picks side-by-side.

Feature	Bar Keepers Friend	The Pink Stuff	Kitchenware Stain Cleaner	All-Clad Cleaner	Onewly Scrubber
Category	Best Overall	Best Paste Cleaner	Best for Heavy-Duty	Best for Stainless Steel	Best Scrubber Tool
Form	Powder	Paste	Paste	Powder	Scrubber Tool
Primary Action	Cleans & Polishes	Gentle Cleaning	Dissolves Burnt Stains	Cleans & Polishes	Mechanical Scrubbing
Abrasiveness	Mildly Abrasive	Non-Abrasive	Chemically Powerful	Mildly Abrasive	Highly Abrasive
Best For	Everyday stainless steel cleaning and polishing	Versatile cleaning on many delicate surfaces	Restoring burnt bottoms of steel/iron pots	Safely maintaining premium stainless steel	Scrubbing cast iron and durable surfaces
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

This chart shows that while Bar Keepers Friend is the best all-around choice for most cookware, a specialized cleaner like the Kitchenware Stain Cleaner is necessary for extreme burnt-on messes.

For those who prioritize surface safety above all, The Pink Stuff’s non-abrasive formula is ideal. The All-Clad Cleaner offers peace of mind for owners of premium pans, while the Onewly Scrubber is a vital tool for chemical-free, heavy-duty scrubbing.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Pot and Pan Cleaner

Choosing the right cleaner isn’t about finding one “perfect” product, but about matching the cleaner’s strengths to your cookware and the type of mess you’re facing. Here’s what I recommend you consider to make the best choice for your kitchen.

Your Cookware Material: This is the most important factor. Stainless Steel & Cast Iron are workhorses and can handle mildly abrasive powders (like Bar Keepers Friend) or strong scrubbers (like the Onewly). Non-Stick & Enameled Cast Iron are delicate and require a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner like The Pink Stuff to avoid permanent scratches that ruin the surface. Aluminum and Copper are also sensitive and can be discolored by harsh chemicals.
The Type of Mess: Are you dealing with daily grease or a catastrophic burn? For general food residue and light grease, a non-abrasive paste is sufficient and safe. For baked-on grime, rust, and heat discoloration, a mildly abrasive powder with polishing agents is the best choice. For thick, black, carbonized bottoms, you need a heavy-duty specialist cleaner that uses chemical action to dissolve the stain.
Cleaner Form: Paste vs. Powder: Powders (like Bar Keepers Friend and All-Clad) are often more powerful and excellent for polishing but require the extra step of mixing with water to create a paste. Pastes (like The Pink Stuff and the Kitchenware Stain Cleaner) are ready-to-use, convenient, and often gentler, but may lack the polishing power for the toughest jobs.
Abrasiveness vs. Chemical Power: Cleaners work in two main ways. Abrasives (like powders and steel wool) physically scrub the stain away with friction. Chemicals (like in the heavy-duty paste) work to dissolve the stain so it can be wiped off with less effort. Abrasives are often faster but risk scratching; chemical cleaners require more patience but can be safer on the surface itself if formulated correctly for the material.
Versatility: Do you want one cleaner for everything or a specialist for one job? A multipurpose grease cleaner like The Pink Stuff can clean your entire kitchen, from stovetops to sinks. A product like the Kitchenware Stain Cleaner is a “special occasion” tool for cookware emergencies. Consider if a budget-friendly, multipurpose product meets most of your needs, or if your collection requires a specialist.

FAQs About Pot and Pan Cleaners

What is the best cleaner for pots and pans?

For most people, the best all-around cleaner is Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish. It offers a powerful combination of cleaning and polishing capabilities that works wonders on the most common cookware material, stainless steel. It effectively removes tough stains, rust, and baked-on grime without being overly harsh.

How do I clean a severely burnt pot?

For a severely burnt pot, use a heavy-duty cleaner specifically designed for that purpose, like the Kitchenware Stain Cleaner. Apply a thick paste to the burnt area, cover it with plastic wrap to keep it from drying out, and let it sit for several hours to dissolve the carbon. For less severe burns, simmering water and baking soda in the pan for 15-20 minutes can also help loosen the burnt food before scrubbing.

Is Bar Keepers Friend safe for all pans?

No, it is not safe for all pans. While it is excellent for stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and glass, you should not use it on non-stick surfaces, as the mild abrasives can damage and wear away the coating. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first if you’re unsure about a material.

What is the best cleaner for stainless steel pots and pans?

Both Bar Keepers Friend and the All-Clad Stainless Steel Cleaner are top choices. They are both mildly abrasive powders that are exceptional at removing heat stains (“rainbow” discoloration) and baked-on food while polishing the metal to a brilliant shine. The All-Clad version is a premium choice from a trusted cookware brand, offering extra peace of mind.

Can I use steel wool on my pots and pans?

You should only use steel wool on durable, unfinished cookware like cast iron and the bottoms of heavy-duty stainless steel pots. Never use it on non-stick, enamel, copper, or polished surfaces, as it will cause deep, permanent scratches and ruin the finish. The Onewly Scrubber is a great example of a tool for this specific purpose.

How can I restore the shine to my dull stainless steel pans?

Use a powder cleanser with polishing agents, like Bar Keepers Friend or the All-Clad Cleaner. Make a paste with a little water, scrub the pan in the direction of the metal’s grain with a soft cloth or sponge, rinse thoroughly, and dry immediately. This will remove the dulling film and water spots, restoring the pan’s original luster.

What removes tough grease from pots and pans?

For tough, oily grease, a good degreaser is key. Many cleaning pastes like The Pink Stuff have excellent degreasing properties that cut through grease without harsh abrasives. For very heavy buildup, you can also use a bit of high-quality dish soap known for its grease-cutting power, combined with hot water and a non-scratch scrubber.

Is The Pink Stuff better than Bar Keepers Friend?

Neither is “better”; they are different tools for different jobs. The Pink Stuff is a non-abrasive paste that is safer for a wider variety of delicate surfaces and is a great multipurpose cleaner. Bar Keepers Friend is a more powerful, mildly abrasive powder that is superior at polishing metal and removing tough, baked-on stains from durable cookware like stainless steel.

How do you clean the black bottom of a pan?

To clean the thick, black, carbonized bottom of a pan, you need a heavy-duty chemical cleaner designed to dissolve it. A product like the Kitchenware Stain Cleaner is made for this exact task. Apply the paste, let it sit for an extended period (1-2 hours or more) under plastic wrap, and then wipe the dissolved grime away. This is a chemical process, not a scrubbing one.

Can I make a homemade cleaner for my pots and pans?

Yes, a paste of baking soda and water is a great, mildly abrasive homemade cleaner for general scrubbing. For tougher stains, you can add a little white vinegar or lemon juice to the baking soda to create a fizzing reaction that helps lift grime. However, for severe burns, rust, or restoring a high polish, a dedicated commercial product is usually more effective.

My Final Verdict

After extensive testing, it’s clear that the best pot and pan cleaner for the widest range of kitchen tasks is a versatile and powerful powder cleanser that can both clean and polish. While every product on this list has its merits, one stands out for its sheer effectiveness and value.

My top recommendation is the Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish. Its unmatched ability to remove tough stains, eliminate rust, and polish stainless steel back to a mirror shine makes it an indispensable tool for any serious home cook.

This cleaner is perfect for you if:
* You primarily cook with stainless steel, aluminum, or copper cookware.
* You frequently deal with baked-on food or heat discoloration.
* You want to restore a brilliant shine to dull-looking pans.
* You appreciate a versatile product that can also clean sinks and other kitchen surfaces.
* You need a powerful solution for rust and hard water stains.

This might not be ideal for you if:
* You exclusively use non-stick cookware.
* You need a cleaner for very delicate, painted, or decorative surfaces.
* You prefer a ready-to-use product with no mixing required.

If you primarily use non-stick or enameled cookware and are worried about scratches, your best bet is the gentle, non-abrasive Stardrops – The Pink Stuff Miracle Cleaning Paste. Ultimately, having both a powerful powder like Bar Keepers Friend and a gentle paste like The Pink Stuff in your cleaning arsenal will prepare you for any mess your kitchen throws at you.

Last update on 2026-02-20 at 22:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API