How to Clean Hard Anodized Cookware Interior and Exterior

Are you looking for the best way to clean your hard anodized cookware? When cleaned correctly, this type of cookware will serve you well for many years. Following the correct procedure will keep your cookware sleek and safe to cook in.

However, it is essential to make sure that you select the right cleaning equipment. Otherwise, you may degrade or do some serious damage to your cookware. 

So, let’s find out exactly How to Clean Hard Anodized Cookware Interior and Exterior…

What Are Hard Anodized Pans?

Hard anodized is the special process that aluminum cookware goes through, where it is submerged in a chemical bath, with an electrical current applied to it. This causes the aluminum to oxidize and then harden, making the pot especially durable and anti-corrosive.

A higher voltage can be applied at a lower temperature for a longer period of time to increase the hardness. Most hard anodized pots and pans also have a nonstick coating covering the interior.

Tips for Cleaning Hard Anodized Cookware

Before we go into the method in detail, let’s do a quick summary. First and foremost, it is important to make sure that you choose the right cleaning product for the task. The interiors of hard anodized cookware need to be cleaned with a non-abrasive sponge.

The Right Cleaning Products

It is best to choose a mild cleaning detergent because harsh detergents can damage the surface of hard anodized cookware. Make sure that the cleaning product is free from baking soda and is not alkaline. Scouring powder can also be used to remove tough food residue and thick grease.

Cleaning the Interior

If there is thick grease or hardened food residue, soak the cookware in warm water before cleaning. Use a non-abrasive sponge or a soft cloth to remove the loosened contents.

If the interior still features stains or burnt food, simmering the pot or pan could help to remove it. Simply fill the cookware with water, add a little detergent, and leave it on the stove for around thirty minutes. Once the cookware has cooled, use a brush or sponge to remove the stains and food.

If you want to restore the nonstick interior coating, it is best to season the cookware. Simply warm the cookware on the stove and coat the interior with some oil and then turn off the heat. After the oil has been sitting in the cookware overnight, the nonstick coating should be fully restored.

Cleaning the Exterior

The process of cleaning the exterior of hard anodized cookware is basically the same as for the interior. Make sure that you wash the exterior gently so that it does not lose color or shine.

It is important to avoid using steel wool to remove stubborn stains as this will scratch the exterior. Instead, use a powder cleaner that contains oxalate acid, which is also known as oxalic acid. This works at a molecular level to remove stubborn stains.

You can remove minor scratches and dullness with a heavy-duty dry sponge or scouring pad. Make sure that you follow the grain of the cookware. After the cleaning process, wash the cookware with oxalate acid cleaner and then dry it in the usual way.

How to Clean Hard Anodized Cookware Interior and Exterior – Things to Avoid 

In addition to using the right type of cleaner and sponge, there are several other things to avoid when using this cookware. When storing hard anodized pots, place the lid upside down on the pot to prevent the buildup of odors.

Some models of hard anodized cookware claim to be dishwasher safe. However, running this cookware through the dishwasher is likely to shorten its lifespan. The temperature of the dishwasher and the detergent is likely to damage the nonstick coating.

After it has been through the dishwasher several times, you may find that the nonstick coating peels off or chips. This will reduce how effective the nonstick coating is and make the cookware more difficult to clean.

It is also important to avoid plunging hot hard anodized cookware in cold water. The sudden dramatic change in temperature could cause the cookware to warp. Therefore, allow time for your cookware to fully cool down before you attempt to clean it.

If you want to soak your cookware as soon as you finish cooking, add boiling water to the pots and pans. This will help to loosen stubborn food and stains without the risk of warping.

The Advantages of Using Hard Anodized Cookware

If you are searching for new cookware, hard anodized pots and pans are an excellent option. Hard anodized cookware is especially durable and can last a lifetime if used and cleaned correctly. The nonstick surfaces are also free from harmful chemicals such as PFOA and PTFE.

This material heats up very quickly and provides especially even heat distribution. Plus, even though this type of cookware is very strong, it is also surprisingly light.

Looking for some great new cookware?

If so, take a look at our Scanpan Reviews, and our Rachael Ray Cucina Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set Review, our Cuisinart 77 11G Chefs Classic Stainless 11 Piece Cookware Set Review, and our GreenLife Soft Grip Healthy Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Review.

You might also be interested in our in-depth reviews of the Best Jelly Roll Pans, the Best Red Copper Pans, the Best Carbon Steel Pans, our Best Granite Cookware Reviews, and the Best Ceramic Cookware Sets you can buy in 2022.

How to Clean Hard Anodized Cookware Interior and Exterior – Final Thoughts

Hard anodized cookware comes in a wide range of styles and can look especially attractive. Following these cleaning techniques will help your hard anodized cookware to last a lifetime. Although the cleaning process may seem a bit involved at first, it will save you time and trouble in the long run.

Regularly cleaning your pots and pans will prevent them from rusting and other types of corrosion. It also ensures that the nonstick coating on your hard anodized cookware lasts as long as possible. This makes creating delicious and tasty meals for your family a breeze.

Happy cooking and cleaning!