6 Simple Ways to Clean Your Baking Sheets
Explore the most effective and straightforward methods for removing baked-on residue from your baking sheets. Follow these steps to restore their original shine.
Baking sheets are a crucial tool in any kitchen, whether you’re preparing a family dinner or creating a delicious apple-cranberry slab pie. Over time, these sheets can accumulate a lot of grime. Before you discard a well-loved pan because of stubborn residue, try these easy cleaning techniques, suitable for both rimmed and unrimmed sheets. (Alternatively, consider using nonstick baking sheets from Taste of Home to prevent buildup in the first place!)
How to Clean a Baking Sheet with Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
Ingredients Required:
Baking soda
Aluminum foil
Step 1: Rinse the Baking Sheet
Start by rinsing your baking sheet to ensure the surface is wet for the baking soda application.
Step 2: Create a Paste
Mix water with baking soda to form a paste. The consistency should be thick enough to spread easily without being too runny.
Step 3: Scrub with Aluminum Foil
Crumple a piece of aluminum foil into a golf ball-sized shape and use it to scrub away the burnt-on debris. The combination of the baking soda paste and the scrubbing action should remove the residue. Once satisfied with the results, rinse the sheet with soapy water to eliminate any leftover paste and food particles.
How to Clean a Baking Sheet with Baking Soda and Vinegar
Ingredients Required:
White vinegar
Baking soda
Steel wool or nylon pad
Step 1: Prepare the Soaking Solution
Fill your sink with hot water and mix in equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar (about 1/2 cup each, depending on the size of your sink). Expect some bubbling!
Step 2: Soak the Baking Sheet
Submerge your dirty pan in the solution and let it soak for 30 minutes to an hour, based on the level of grime.
Step 3: Scrub the Sheet
After soaking, remove the baking sheet and scrub it with steel wool or a nylon pad. Finish by washing it with soap and water to eliminate any vinegar odor.
How to Clean a Baking Sheet with Oven Cleaner
Ingredients Required:
Easy-Off Oven Cleaner
Steel wool
Step 1: Apply the Oven Cleaner
Evenly spray Easy-Off on your baking sheet. Since this method involves strong chemicals, consider testing it on a small corner first before applying it to the entire pan.
Step 2: Let It Sit
To minimize fume exposure in your home, store the pan outside, in your garage, or in your oven for about 15 minutes after spraying.
Step 3: Scrub Off the Residue
Use steel wool to scrub away the toughest stains. Remember to rinse thoroughly with soapy water afterwards.
Editor’s Note: Some cooks find this method works better on stainless steel than aluminum due to its durability. The combination of steel wool and chemicals can lead to scratching or pitting in aluminum pans, so be cautious.
How to Clean a Baking Sheet with Cream of Tartar and Vinegar
Ingredients Required:
Cream of tartar
White vinegar
Coarse sponge or cloth
Step 1: Make a Paste
Mix cream of tartar with white vinegar in equal parts to form a paste.
Step 2: Apply the Paste
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