Good hygiene practices are an integral part of any  cooking training  . Equipment maintenance remains essential regardless of the restaurant sector. However, the walls of utensils such as saucepans frequently burn. This inconvenience does not spare any professional cook, experienced or not. However, there are several natural and eco-friendly methods to effectively clean a charred pan.

1 – Baking soda and white vinegar

Baking soda or soda has degreasing, descaling and deodorizing properties. White vinegar or alcohol vinegar has the same virtues, being antibacterial. The combination of these two products provides an effective, economical and natural cleaning solution.

This mixture causes a chemical reaction that allows rapid dissolution of the burned deposits:

• sprinkle your pan with baking soda;
• then pour alcohol vinegar;
• wait at least 15 minutes;
• scrub the walls with a sponge or non-abrasive brush;
• rinse well.

2 – Soda crystals

Soda crystals, composed of sodium carbonate, form a salt that is especially effective for degreasing and cleaning all surfaces. However, it is more corrosive than baking soda dust and can cause skin irritation. Therefore, it should be handled carefully with rubber gloves. However, it is a non-toxic and environmentally friendly product.

When the sides of the pan look charred:

• Pour boiling water over it.
• Add a few handfuls of soda crystals.
• Wait several hours or even overnight.
• Then rub gently with a sponge.
• Rinse with plenty of water.

3 – Citric acid

Citric acid is now available in powder or crystal form. As the name suggests, this homemade product is derived from lemon. It is a powerful descaler as well as a fungicide and bactericide. This eliminates embedded stains on stainless steel and cast iron pans. 

To effectively clean your utensil:

• Pour two tablespoons of citric acid into it.
• Then add boiling water.
• Let the solution sit for a few minutes.
• If necessary, use a putty knife or sponge to loosen the residue.
• Rinse several times with water.

4 – Wood ashes

Wood ashes contain many properties that are still unknown. Coming from the combustion of dry untreated wood, they contain mineral salts, phosphorus, magnesium, silica and potash. These ashes are especially effective in removing grease stains. They also have the advantage of cleaning and restoring shine to copper utensils.

How to use wood ashes in a burnt pan?

• Cover the walls with ashes.
• Wait some minutes.
• Then wipe with a paper towel.
• Wash your pan with soapy water and then rinse. 

You can also add a little water to the ash to form a paste. This will allow you to take care of your copper and silver utensils. 

Whatever the degree of burns on your pan, it is recommended not to use overly corrosive products to preserve the good condition of your equipment. As such, using bleach, undiluted baking soda, or an abrasive sponge should be avoided.