Everyone is turning away from their stainless steel frying pans and to ceramic cookware. There are many reasons that people are seeking out ceramic cookware over other materials. So, does ceramic cookware scratch?
Ceramic cookware is the most eco-friendly and healthy cookware available!
Other cookware such as stainless steel, iron, and copper contain chemicals. However, ceramic cookware does not pose this risk to its users. It’s coating is free of harmful chemicals.
Ceramic cookware is becoming popular also because of its chip resistance and scratch resistance; however, there are always concerns that this is not true.
People want to buy cookware that they know will last years. Ceramic cookware typically has a three to five-year lifespan.
The number one concern about cookware is if it will last the wear and tear of time.
Does Ceramic Cookware Scratch
Ceramic cookware is created with specific materials that make it popular. Ceramic cookware companies often use the following materials for their ceramic cookware line:
- Kaolinite
- Clay
- Sand
- Mullite
- Petalite
- Cordierite
This mixture of materials is used to create a non-scratch glaze that makes ceramic cookware scratch-resistant. Pots and pans usually have a steel or metal-substance inner construction and an outer ceramic coating or glaze.
Not only is this cookware wrapped in a ceramic coating, but it is heated and molded at approximately 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. By heating and molding at this temperature, the surface of the cookware is hardened.
Many steps in the process of construction make ceramic cookware scratch-resistant.
Even with the best of materials and the hottest mold, sometimes cookware cannot endure the trials of human error. There are circumstances in which ceramic cookware can be scratched.
The main reasons for scratches in ceramic cookware are the wearing down of the ceramic coating over time and when the cookware is not taken care of properly.
By staking ceramic cookware among metal cookware, it can cause scratching. Aggressively using metal utensils can also cause scratches and chips.
Why You Should Avoid Ceramic Cookware Scratches
While scratches on ceramic cookware may not occur, if they do they can cause hazardous effects. There are many negative effects of a scratched ceramic cookware piece.
Scratches will reduce the non-stickiness of ceramic pots and pans. After wearing down the ceramic glaze, it will lose its durable coating. And it will make the pan more susceptible to damage.
Not only will it lose its non-stick characteristic, but scratches will expose the metal underneath the ceramic coating; this can be dangerous.
If metal is exposed then the chemicals of the pan will sometimes release harmful fumes.
The biggest concern for scratches on ceramic cookware is flaking. If the ceramic coating is scratched heavily, then the lining could begin peeling off the pan. If the lining flakes, it could mix in with the food. This exposure to the food can cause adverse effects that may require doctor visits and a call to poison control.
It is vital to take care of ceramic cookware to avoid scratches.
How to Avoid Scratches
Thankfully, some general rules can be put in place to avoid scratching. It is important to take care of your cookware to ensure that it lasts long.
If taken care of correctly, ceramic cookware can last up to five years! A great investment.
Firstly, aggressively using metal utensils can be detrimental to the longevity of your ceramic cookware. It is best to use other utensils. The following materials work as best-preventing scratching:
- Wooden
- Plastic
- Nylon
- Silicone
By using these types of utensils, you can take excellent care of your ceramic cookware.
Another way to ensure longevity is to store your ceramic cookware properly. Stacking ceramic cookware on top of other pans, metal surfaces, and in a place where they can be easily dented is not a good idea.
There are special separators that are sold specifically for pan stacking. Putting cloth, silicone, or rubber inserts in between pots and pans can prevent them from dents, chips, and scratches.
How to Get Rid of Scratches
Once you have a scratch on your ceramic cookware, don’t lose hope! Believe it or not, it is sometimes reversible. There are a few ways to get rid of a ceramic cookware scratch.
You can replace the ceramic pan. There are examples in which the damage is too far gone. In these cases, you should look for major flaking, large areas of exposed metal, and chemical smells.
Some cookware stores and household stores sell cookware repair spray and porcelain repair kits.
Cookware repair spray can be used by spraying a thick layer of repair spray and letting it sit for an extended amount of time. After sitting, it should be baked for 45 minutes. Once it has dried, rewash with dish soap and a sponge.
You can also use a porcelain repair kit. A porcelain repair kit works very similarly to a cookware repair spray. First, wash the cookware thoroughly and then rub an abrasive paper over the scratch to make the surface rough. While this seems counterintuitive, the roughness allows the solution to stick better to the cookware. Apply several thin layers of solution, wait one hour, and apply again. Continue to apply every other hour until the scratch is no longer visible.
If you are lucky enough, you can contact your ceramic cookware brand, and sometimes they will repair the damaged cookware for you! All you have to do is send it in and, in some cases, pay a fee.
Protect Ceramic Cookware From Future Scratches
To protect your ceramic cookware from future scratches, there are a few do’s and don’ts.
- Don’t douse hot ceramic cookware in water while it is still hot. Let it cool, and then rinse before washing.
- Don’t cook on high heat. Ceramic cookware works best on a low to medium heat setting.
- Do hand wash ceramic cookware. While many are dishwasher safe, hand washing is much less abrasive than a dishwasher. Use soft materials like a cloth or sponge.
- Do soak in baking soda, vinegar, and water. For tough food remnants, it is best to soak your ceramic cookware in this mixture to avoid harsh scrubbing
To Put it Briefly
Does Ceramic Cookware Scratch? Yes and No.
Ceramic cookware is extremely durable, but its durability can be tested against the error of humans.
It is best to avoid scratches by using the appropriate utensils and storing the cookware correctly. Scratches can cause a reduction of non-stickiness and harmful materials getting in the food.
Try reaching out to your ceramic cookware company if scratches are too hard to handle or try your hand at using a repair spray.
Learn when it is time to replace your ceramic cookware!
Follow the simple do’s and don’ts to protect your ceramic cookware from future scratches!
