Here’s how to clean the underside of pots and pans to make them look like new

If the bottoms of your pots and pans have brown, black, or greasy stains, you can often restore them with a few common household ingredients. The best method depends on whether the stains are grease, burnt-on residue, or discoloration.

Remedy 1: Baking Soda + Hydrogen Peroxide (Best for Burnt Stains)

Ingredients

• ½ cup baking soda
• 2–3 tablespoons hydrogen peroxide (3%)
• 1 tablespoon dish soap

Instructions

1. Mix the baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap into a thick paste.
2. Spread a generous layer over the underside of the pan.
3. Let it sit for 30–60 minutes (or overnight for heavy stains).
4. Scrub with a non-scratch scrubbing pad or soft steel wool.
5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
6. Repeat if needed.

Works well on:

• Stainless steel
• Aluminum (use gentle scrubbing)
• Enamel-coated cookware

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Remedy 2: Baking Soda + White Vinegar

Ingredients

• ½ cup baking soda
• White vinegar (about ¼ cup)
• Warm water

Instructions

1. Sprinkle baking soda over the stained bottom.
2. Pour vinegar slowly over it. It will fizz.
3. Leave for 15–20 minutes.
4. Scrub with a sponge or nylon scrubber.
5. Rinse and dry.

Best for:

• Grease
• Light scorch marks
• Food residue

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Remedy 3: Bar Keepers Friend (Excellent for Stainless Steel)

Ingredients

• Bar Keepers Friend cleanser
• Water

Instructions

1. Wet the bottom of the pan.
2. Sprinkle the cleanser over the stains.
3. Let sit for 1 minute.
4. Scrub gently with a damp sponge.
5. Rinse thoroughly.

This is one of the fastest methods for restoring stainless steel cookware.

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Remedy 4: Lemon + Baking Soda

Ingredients

• 1 lemon, cut in half
• 2–3 tablespoons baking soda

Instructions

1. Sprinkle baking soda over the pan bottom.
2. Use the cut lemon as a scrubber.
3. Continue scrubbing for 5–10 minutes.
4. Leave for another 10 minutes.
5. Rinse with warm water.

This helps remove stains while reducing odors.

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Remedy 5: Cream of Tartar Paste

Ingredients

• ¼ cup cream of tartar
• Water

Instructions

1. Mix cream of tartar with enough water to form a paste.
2. Spread over the stains.
3. Let sit for 30 minutes.
4. Scrub with a sponge.
5. Rinse and dry.

This works well for discoloration on stainless steel.

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Tips

• Avoid using steel wool on nonstick cookware, as it can damage the coating.
• Test any cleaning method on a small area first, especially for aluminum or anodized cookware.
• Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.
• Dry cookware immediately after cleaning to help prevent water spots.

With stubborn buildup, you may need to repeat the treatment two or three times. Regular cleaning after each use will help keep the undersides of pots and pans looking bright and close to new.