Despite what you may have heard, stone baking pans are easier to clean than you may imagine.
These are virtually nonporous, which means liquids and foods don’t soak in.
However, you can purchase different types of stone baking pans, which means each option may require a different cleaning method.
Keep reading to learn more about cleaning your stone baking pans.
The Number 1 Rule of Cleaning Stone Baking Pans
When it comes to cleaning stone baking pans, you will find many do’s and don’ts out there.
These are great guidelines to keep in mind, but there’s also a number 1 rule to keep in mind:
Don’t use soap.
While this may seem odd, you can view your stone baking pans like your cast iron cookware. Soap will strip the non-stick finish off your cookware.
Also, don’t put your stone baking pans in the dishwasher. Once it has cooled after being used for cooking, you should hand-wash it with warm water.
If there is food stuck to your pan, use a tool to scrape it off. The best option to ensure no damage occurs is a nylon pan scraper.
Below, we will cover the different methods and items you can use to clean the stone baking pans you have.
However, before that, just getting a general idea of the cleaning process may be helpful.
The good news is the entire process isn’t more than five steps.
Remember, though, that this may vary (we’ll learn more about that below).
The steps include:
- Let the baking pan cool completely (it should reach room temperature before you do anything).
- Remove dried food using a kitchen brush or nylon scraper.
- Use your cleaning method of choice (more below).
- Scrape or wipe off the cleaner and rinse the baking pan in warm water.
- Allow the pan to dry before putting it away.
It seems simple, right? It is. This means there’s no reason your stone baking pans shouldn’t last.
While you know the basics, now it’s time to learn more about specific cleaning methods.
These vary, and everyone ends up having their favorite. Sometimes, it’s a process of trial and error to figure out what works best for you.
Cleaning Glazed vs. Unglazed Stone Baking Pans
Before trying to clean your stone baking pan, you need to know if it is glazed or unglazed – this makes a difference in the cleaning technique you should use.
Cleaning Glazed Stone Baking Pans
Some glazed stone baking pans claim to be dishwasher safe. While this may be the case, it’s still best to avoid washing them in the dishwasher.
Instead, use the steps above.
You can use a baking soda paste for cleaning these pans. If this is the cleaning method you choose, allow the paste to sit on the surface for 10 to 15 minutes.
Be sure to remove any paste in the bottom of the pan and then rinse it using warm water.
It’s worth noting that after years of continual use, flaking may occur. This may also occur if you store your stone baking pans in an oven or expose it to baking cycles when it’s not being used.
Over time, this will burn off the seasoning, too. If you can, store your stone baking pans in a dry, cool area.
Cleaning Unglazed Stone Baking Pans
If you have an unglazed stone baking pan, you will notice that it starts to darken as it develops the seasoning. This also serves as a natural, non-stick coating.
Remember, this is normal. You want this to happen, so don’t be alarmed if you see it.
Once the stone has cooled (after cooking in it), wash it by hand with warm water.
Use a nylon scraper to remove any stuck-on food bits (if you have one). Be sure it dries completely before storing it.
Cleaning Your Stone Baking Pans with Household Items
Now it’s time to get down and dirty with your stone baking pans.
Sometimes, it takes time and elbow grease to get the pan clean.
While this is true, there are some household items (that you probably already have) that you can use to help get your stone baking pan clean and ready to use again another day.
Fight Grease with Lemon
There’s a reason lemon is used in so many kitchen cleaning products, such as dish soap – it’s an effective de-greaser.
Along with breaking down grease on your dishes, it also deodorizes.
If you want to use lemon to clean your stone baking pan, there’s a right way to do it. You will need the juice of approximately half of a lemon.
The juice can remove the buildup of grease on your stone baking pans.
Use a sponge or damp cloth to rub the lemon juice into the greasy area. You should notice the stickiness lifting and the dish become less gummy and smoother.
After that, rinse the pan well and allow it to dry fully.
Baking Soda for Damage
Have you noticed dark scuffs or scratches on your stone baking dishes? This can occur because of stacking the dishes or due to cutlery.
At this point, you should avoid using an abrasive scouring pad. This type of pad can dull or damage your baking pan’s glaze or sealer.
A better method of removing this type of damage is to sprinkle a teaspoon (or more depending on the pan’s size) of baking soda onto the marred area.
Once in place, dampen a sponge or dishcloth and use it to rub the baking soda over the scuffs and dark streaks. You should notice the marks starting to disappear after just a few seconds.
After the scuffs are gone, you can rinse the dish.
If you want to avoid causing marks on your stone baking pan in the future, don’t use traditional cutlery to remove food. Instead, use a kitchen brush or nylon scraper.
Avoid Soaking Your Stone Baking Pans in Water
While you may soak other types of dishes, such as plastic or ceramic items, in hot and soapy water for an hour or more to remove stains caused by things like tea, beets, coffee, or other acidic foods and drinks, this is not recommended for stoneware.
If you immerse your stone baking pans in water, even for just 10 to 20 minutes, it will cause the stone to start to break down and become brittle.
When removing stains, you can use about a teaspoon of baking soda with just enough vinegar to create a paste. Apply this paste using a sponge or a damp soft cloth.
After applying it to your stone baking dish, you should notice the colored or darkened areas lighten. You can continue using this cleaning method if the stains are significant.
Eliminating Odors
If you love to cook, then you know some of the best flavors come from the smelliest foods, such as garlic, spices, and fish.
Unfortunately, the odors these leave behind – even after cleaning your stone baking pans – are anything but appetizing.
There’s an effective cleaning method for these issues, too.
You can add ¼ cup of vinegar to about a tablespoon of baking soda. Use this to wash out the pan.
You should notice the pan is completely odor-free after using this cleaning method.
Cleaning, Caring for, and Maintaining Your Stone Baking Pans
If you properly clean, maintain, and care for your stone baking pans, they can last for decades. This is because the stone is one of the most durable materials used today.
Make sure you keep the following do’s and don’ts in mind to minimize issues with your stone baking pans that may require more extensive cleaning.
- Don’t use soap when cleaning stone baking pans.
- Do make sure your stone baking pans are completely dry before storing them.
- Don’t submerge your stone baking pans in water.
- Do use a nylon scraper or soft kitchen brush to remove stuck-on food.
- Don’t use traditional cutlery in stone baking pans.
- Do store your stone baking pans in a cool, dry location
- Don’t put your stone baking pans in the dishwasher (even if they are labeled “dishwasher safe”).
While this may seem like many guidelines to follow, it is actually quite simple to keep your stone baking pans in good, usable condition.
Even better, when these items are properly cared for, you can hand them down to your children or grandchildren.
There’s no better flavor than cooking your favorite foods in a well-seasoned baking dish.
Are You Properly Caring for Your Stone Baking Pans?
If you use or have stone baking pans or plan to purchase some, it’s good to use the tips and information above to ensure they are cleaned properly.
By doing this, you can feel confident your baking pans will last for a long time and provide you with years of enjoyment and use.
Being informed and knowing what to do and what to avoid is good for you and your recipes (not to mention your stone baking pans).
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