Here’s a safe, effective DIY cleaner that really does beat regular dish soap at removing burnt-on stains—and no scrubbing required.
(Completely safe household ingredients—no harsh chemical combos.)
✨ No-Scrub DIY Cleaner for Burnt Pots & Pans
Baking Soda + Hydrogen Peroxide Paste
This combo lifts carbonized, burnt residue without scrubbing. It works on stainless steel, enamel, glass, and ceramic cookware.
🧪 Ingredients
- ½ cup baking soda
- 2–4 tablespoons hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- (Optional) 1 teaspoon dish soap for degreasing
📝 Instructions
- Make a thick paste
Mix baking soda with just enough hydrogen peroxide to form a spreadable paste. - Apply generously to the burnt areas.
Coat the bottom thoroughly—no scrubbing yet. - Let it sit 30–60 minutes
For very stubborn burns, leave it for 2–3 hours. - Wipe away
The burnt residue will lift and slide off with a sponge or cloth. - Rinse well and you’re done.
⭐ Why This Works
- Baking soda breaks down acidic burnt-on food and loosens carbonized layers.
- Hydrogen peroxide lightly oxidizes residue so it detaches without effort.
- Together, they create a gentle, fizzy action that releases stubborn stains.
🍳 For Extremely Burnt Stains
Boiling Method (Also No Scrub)
- Fill pan with 1–2 inches of water.
- Add 2 tbsp baking soda.
- Bring to a boil for 5–10 minutes.
- Let cool slightly.
- Burnt bits will lift and scrape off with almost zero force.
⚠️ Safe Use Notes
- Do NOT mix hydrogen peroxide with vinegar or bleach.
- Safe for stainless steel, enamel, glass, ceramic.
- Avoid using on nonstick pans (it can shorten coating life).
If you’d like, I can tell you:
✔ A version specifically for nonstick cookware
✔ A recipe for oven racks or baking sheets
✔ A citrus-based cleaner that smells amazing
