How to Care for Your Premium Cookware: Expert Tips for Longevity

Investing in Quality Means Caring for Quality

Premium cookware is an investment in your culinary journey. With proper care, your high-quality pots, pans, and bakeware can last for decades, becoming trusted companions in your kitchen. Here's our expert guide to keeping your cookware in pristine condition.

1. Understanding Your Cookware Materials

Different materials require different care approaches:

• Stainless Steel: Durable and low-maintenance, but can develop water spots and discolouration if not properly cleaned.
• Cast Iron: Requires seasoning and should never be soaked in water for extended periods.
• Non-Stick: Needs gentle handling to preserve the coating - avoid metal utensils and high heat.
• Copper: Beautiful but requires regular polishing to maintain its lustre.

2. Daily Cleaning Best Practices

Do:

• Allow cookware to cool before washing
• Use warm soapy water and a soft sponge for most pieces
• Dry immediately to prevent water spots
• Hand wash premium pieces, even if labelled dishwasher-safe

Don't:

• Use abrasive scrubbers on non-stick or polished surfaces
• Plunge hot pans into cold water (thermal shock can cause warping)
• Leave food residue to dry and harden

3. Removing Stubborn Stains and Burnt Food

For stainless steel: Create a paste with baking soda and water, apply to stains, and gently scrub in circular motions.

For cast iron: Use coarse salt as a gentle abrasive with a small amount of oil, then re-season.

For burnt-on food: Fill the pan with water and a drop of washing-up liquid, bring to a gentle simmer, then let cool before cleaning.

4. Proper Storage

Stack carefully with pan protectors between pieces to prevent scratching. Hang pots and pans when possible to save space and prevent damage. Store lids separately or use lid organisers to avoid chipping rims.

5. When to Replace vs. Restore

Know when it's time to retire a piece: non-stick coatings that are peeling, warped bases that don't sit flat on the hob, or cracks in enamel cookware all signal it's time for a replacement.

Visit Us for Personalised Advice

Our team at Kooks Unlimited is always happy to provide specific care instructions for your cookware. Pop into our shop or get in touch - we're here to help you get the most from your kitchen investment.