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How to Remove the Black From a Frying Pan

Sal Marco

Cookware manufacturers make frying pans in a variety of metals, ranging from copper to aluminum to stainless steel. Some frying pans develop black marks because of burnt-on foods. Black marks occur on aluminum frying pans from acidic foods. Acidic foods cause a chemical reaction with uncoated aluminum, leaving behind a dark, dull gray or black stain. Using a frying pan with a discoloration is anything but appetizing, making black stain removal necessary.

Aluminum Frying Pans -- Cream of Tartar

Clean the black marks off frying pans to return the shine.

Step 1

Fill the frying pan with enough water to cover the black marks.

Step 2

Add 2 to 3 tbsp. cream of tartar for each 4 cups of water.

Step 3

Turn the stove on and let the water come to a boil. Let the water boil for 10 minutes.

Step 4

Pour the water out of the aluminum frying pan and let the frying pan cool.

Step 5

Wash the frying pan with dish soap and rinse well. Dry with a dishcloth.

Aluminum Frying Pans -- White Vinegar

Step 1

Add water to the aluminum frying pan, covering the black marks.

Step 2

Pour 1 to 2 tbsp. of white vinegar for every 4 cups of water into the frying pan.

Step 3

Bring the water to a boil for five minutes.

Step 4

Pour the water out of the aluminum frying and allow it to cool to room temperature.

Step 5

Wash the aluminum frying pan in warm soapy water, rinse and dry it with a dishcloth.

Copper-Bottom Frying Pans

Step 1

Pour 1 to 2 tbsp. of ketchup into a small bowl.

Step 2

Dip the corner of a clean, soft rag into the ketchup.

Step 3

Apply a layer of ketchup over the black marks, using the rag. Let the ketchup sit on the copper surface for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 4

Wash the ketchup off the copper with dish soap, rinse well with water and dry the frying pan thoroughly with a dishcloth.

Stainless Steel

Step 1

Wet the black with water.

Step 2

Sprinkle baking soda over the black marks.

Step 3

Wet a soft scrub brush or nylon scrubbing pad with water.

Step 4

Scrub the black marks until they disappear.

Step 5

Rinse the baking soda residue off the stainless steel frying pan. Wash the frying pan with dish soap, rinse it with water and dry with a dishcloth.