Care Guides

Caring for Your Premium Cookware & Bakeware

At Kooks Unlimited, we believe that proper care ensures your premium kitchen essentials will serve you beautifully for years to come. Follow these expert guidelines to maintain the quality and performance of your products.

General Care Tips

First Use

  • Wash all new items thoroughly with warm, soapy water before first use
  • Remove all labels and packaging materials
  • Dry completely before storing or using
  • For non-stick cookware, lightly oil the surface before first use

Daily Care

  • Allow cookware to cool before washing to prevent warping
  • Use soft sponges or cloths - avoid abrasive scrubbers on non-stick surfaces
  • Dry thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots and mineral deposits
  • Store carefully to prevent scratching - use pan protectors if stacking

Cookware Care by Material

Stainless Steel Cookware

Cleaning:

  • Hand wash with warm, soapy water or use dishwasher (check manufacturer guidelines)
  • For stubborn stains, use a paste of baking soda and water
  • Remove discolouration with white vinegar or specialist stainless steel cleaner
  • Dry immediately to prevent water spots

Cooking Tips:

  • Preheat pan on medium heat before adding oil or food
  • Avoid high heat - medium heat is usually sufficient
  • Use wooden, silicone, or heat-resistant nylon utensils
  • Safe for oven use (check maximum temperature rating)

Non-Stick Cookware

Cleaning:

  • Hand wash recommended - even if dishwasher safe, hand washing extends life
  • Use soft sponges only - never use abrasive pads or cleaners
  • Avoid metal utensils that can scratch the coating
  • Clean while still warm (not hot) for easier food removal

Cooking Tips:

  • Use low to medium heat only - high heat damages non-stick coating
  • Always use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils
  • Add a small amount of oil or butter for best results
  • Never use cooking spray - it creates buildup that's difficult to remove
  • Replace when coating shows signs of wear or peeling

Cast Iron Cookware

Cleaning:

  • Wash by hand with hot water and minimal soap
  • Dry immediately and thoroughly - never air dry
  • Apply a thin layer of cooking oil after each wash
  • Never put in dishwasher

Seasoning:

  • Season regularly to maintain non-stick surface
  • Apply thin layer of vegetable oil and heat in oven at 190°C for 1 hour
  • Re-season if food starts to stick or surface looks dull

Bakeware Care

Ceramic & Stoneware (Emma Bridgewater, etc.)

Cleaning:

  • Most items are dishwasher safe, but hand washing is gentler
  • Avoid sudden temperature changes - don't place hot items in cold water
  • Use non-abrasive cleaners to protect glazed surfaces
  • Remove stains with baking soda paste

Baking Tips:

  • Check oven-safe temperature rating before use
  • Avoid direct heat sources (stovetop, grill, broiler)
  • Allow to cool gradually - don't place on cold surfaces
  • Grease or line as recommended in recipes

Silicone Bakeware

Cleaning:

  • Dishwasher safe or hand wash with warm, soapy water
  • Remove grease buildup by soaking in hot water with washing-up liquid
  • Air dry or towel dry

Baking Tips:

  • Place on a baking sheet for stability when filled
  • Safe for oven, microwave, and freezer use
  • No greasing required for most recipes
  • Allow to cool before removing baked goods

Metal Baking Tins

Cleaning:

  • Hand wash recommended to preserve finish
  • Avoid harsh abrasives that can scratch surfaces
  • Dry thoroughly to prevent rust
  • For non-stick tins, follow non-stick cookware guidelines above

Kitchen Accessories Care

Wooden Utensils & Boards

  • Hand wash only - never dishwasher
  • Dry immediately and stand upright to air dry completely
  • Oil monthly with food-safe mineral oil or beeswax
  • Sand lightly if surface becomes rough

Kitchen Textiles (Tea Towels, Dishcloths)

  • Machine wash at 40-60°C
  • Avoid fabric softener on absorbent items
  • Tumble dry low or air dry
  • Iron if desired for a crisp finish

Storage Tips

  • Store cookware with pan protectors between pieces to prevent scratching
  • Hang pots and pans when possible to save space and prevent damage
  • Keep lids separate or use lid organizers
  • Store bakeware in a dry location
  • Keep utensils in a drawer or crock, not jumbled together

When to Replace

Even with proper care, cookware and bakeware don't last forever. Replace items when:

  • Non-stick coating is scratched, peeling, or flaking
  • Pans are warped and don't sit flat on the hob
  • Handles are loose or damaged
  • Ceramic or enamel is chipped or cracked
  • Metal shows signs of rust or corrosion

Need More Help?

For product-specific care instructions, always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines included with your purchase. If you have questions about caring for a specific item, please contact us - we're here to help!

Download our printable care guide: [Link to PDF - optional]