How to Clean a Burnt Pyrex Dish Without Ruining It
Cleaning a burnt Pyrex dish might seem daunting, but with the right techniques, you can thoroughly clean it without damaging your valuable cookware. Here are several effective methods to tackle those stubborn burnt spots.
Soaking and Light Scrubbing with Soft Scrub
Begin by soaking the dish in hot water and dish soap for a few hours. This softens the burnt residue, making it easier to remove. Once the soaking is complete, apply a paste made from soft scrub and a less abrasive scratch pad. Gently scrub the bottom of the pan to dislodge the burnt bits. This method is particularly effective for minor burns.
Using Hot Water and Detergent
Another simple method is to fill the pan with hot water and add some Fairy liquid. Let it sit for a few hours. The burnt bits should loosen up and come off. If the burn is more severe, repeat the process. It might be tempting to use a steel wool pad to scrub, but doing so will only create more surfaces for future burns to stick to, creating more work in the long run.
Using Lye Crystals for Stubborn Burns
For more persistent burns, fill the pan with water to cover the burn area. Dissolve a couple of tablespoons of household lye crystals like Drano. Leave the pan undisturbed for a week or so. The lye crystals should break down the discoloration. Once the soaking is done, use a stainless steel Brillo pad to scrub the area. Be cautious as lye can be caustic; wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. This method is effective but requires patience and caution.
Using Dish Soap and Extreme Heat
If you prefer a faster solution, use a generous amount of Dawn dish soap and hot water. Place the dish in the pan and let it sit for a few hours or even overnight. For particularly stubborn areas, use a plastic kitchen spatula or pancake flipper to remove any food that's truly stuck. Then, wash the dish with a sponge and soap water.
Using Baking Soda Paste for Inner Bottom Preserves
If the burn is on the inner bottom of the dish, add about 1/8th inch of water and enough baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to form a paste. Warm the mixture on the stove and let it boil for a few minutes. While it's boiling, use a wooden spoon to gently scrape off the burnt matter. This method is effective but requires some elbow grease.
By employing these methods, you can keep your Pyrex dishes looking like new for years to come. Remember, the key is to be gentle and patient when removing burnt residues without causing damage to the dish. Happy cooking!