How to Restore the Non-Stick Coating of a Frying Pan

Over time, non-stick frying pans can lose their effectiveness, causing food to stick and making cooking more difficult. Fortunately, there are several simple, low-cost household methods that can help restore the pan’s non-stick surface and extend its lifespan. Below are three easy and effective techniques using common kitchen ingredients.

Restoring a Non-Stick Pan with Milk

One of the simplest and most economical ways to revive a non-stick coating is by using fresh milk. Milk contains casein protein, which, when heated, bonds together and forms a thin protective layer on the surface of the pan. This layer can help improve the pan’s non-stick performance in a short amount of time.

Steps to follow:

• Pour enough milk into the pan to completely cover the bottom. You can use either sweetened or unsweetened fresh milk.

• Place the pan on the stove and gently heat the milk for about 5 minutes until it comes to a boil. Use medium heat and avoid high flames to prevent the milk from boiling over.

• Once the milk has boiled, turn off the heat and carefully pour the milk out.

• Wash the pan thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining milk residue and odor.

• Test the restored non-stick surface by frying an egg. If the egg slides easily and does not stick, the coating has been successfully refreshed.

An Alternative Method Using Potatoes

Potatoes are another natural and effective solution for restoring worn non-stick pans, especially those that have been used for a long time.

Ingredients:

• 1 potato

• A small amount of salt

Instructions:

• Peel the potato, wash it thoroughly, and let it dry. Cut it in half.

• Sprinkle salt onto the cut surface of one half and rub it across the pan to help remove dirt and residue.

• Use the other half of the potato to scrub the bottom of the pan and any areas where the non-stick coating has peeled or weakened.

• After scrubbing, rinse the pan with water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth.

Potatoes contain natural acids that help remove rust and stubborn stains. In addition, nutrients such as riboflavin and folate may interact with Teflon surfaces, helping to naturally support and refresh the pan’s non-stick layer.

Restoring a Non-Stick Pan with Coconut Oil

Another effective method involves using coconut oil combined with salt. This technique not only cleans the pan but also temporarily restores its non-stick properties.

What you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil

• Table salt

• Paper towels

How to do it:

• Place the pan on the stove and add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, spreading it evenly across the surface.

• Heat the oil for about 2–3 minutes, then pour it out.

• Sprinkle salt evenly over the pan’s surface and use a paper towel to gently rub the pan in circular motions.

• Discard the excess salt and wipe the pan clean with a fresh paper towel.

Note: This method provides a temporary improvement to the non-stick coating. After several uses, the effect may gradually fade. To maintain the pan’s performance, you can repeat this process periodically as needed.