Caring for Your Cookware

How to Use Nonstick Cookware

When cared for properly, hard-anodized nonstick cookware can be long-lasting. For better cooking results, first preheat the pan at your desired cooking setting before adding butter or oil. It’s best to avoid using aerosol cooking sprays since they contain chemical propellant that can be difficult to remove. Instead, use an oil mister or dab a bit of oil on a paper towel and carefully wipe the interior of the pan. Certain nonstick collections are metal-utensil-safe, but others require use of wooden, silicone, or nylon utensils. Please check prior to using.

How to Clean Nonstick Cookware

Before first use, hand-wash your nonstick cookware with warm, sudsy water and dry thoroughly. Use a liquid dishwashing detergent and a nonabrasive sponge or soft-bristle brush. After cooking, allow pans to cool completely before washing. If dishwasher-safe, place in your appliance and wash with automatic dishwashing detergent that doesn’t contain bleach or citrus additives. If pots and pans are hand-wash only, clean the same way as you did initially.

How to Store Nonstick Cookware

Stacking nonstick pans on top of each other can scratch the nonstick interior. If stacking to store nonstick cookware, place a paper towel, napkin, or trivet in between each pan to protect from damage.

How to Use Stainless Steel Cookware

Proper care helps extend the life of your stainless steel pots and pans. Although the material is quite strong and metal-utensil-safe, it’s best to use wooden, silicone, or nylon utensils.

For better cooking results, first preheat the pan at your desired cooking setting before adding butter or oil. It’s best to avoid using aerosol cooking sprays since they contain chemical propellant that can be difficult to remove. Instead, use an oil mister or dab a bit of oil on a paper towel and carefully wipe the interior of the pan.

How to Clean Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel cookware is typically dishwasher-safe, but we recommend handwashing to preserve its luster. Before first use, hand-wash your cookware with warm, sudsy water and dry thoroughly. Use a liquid dishwashing detergent and a nonabrasive sponge or soft-bristle brush. After cooking, allow pans to cool completely before washing. Never place a hot pan in cold water, which can cause thermal shock and warp it.

To restore the shine to the stainless steel, you may also use Bar Keeper’s Friend® cleanser (or other polish made especially for stainless steel) and a nonabrasive sponge or soft-bristle brush.

How to Store Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel cookware can be stacked for storage, but it’s best to place a paper towel, napkin, or trivet as additional protection against unwanted scratches.

How to Use Ceramic Cookware

Most ceramic cookware is not metal utensil safe, because using metal utensils can damage or scratch the nonstick surface. While it is safe to use metal utensils on Calphalon’s Ceramic Cookware products, using silicone or wooden utensils will help prolong their nonstick performance. For better cooking results, first preheat the pan to your desired cooking setting before adding butter or oil. When cooking with ceramic nonstick cookware, it’s best to use high-smoke-point oils and avoid cooking sprays, which can leave a sticky residue.

How to Clean Ceramic Cookware

Before first use, cleaning ceramic cookware is an important step. So, hand-wash your cookware with warm, sudsy water and dry thoroughly. Our ceramic pots and pans are designed for easy cleaning after cooking. After each use, we recommend using a soft sponge and warm, soapy water. Our cookware is also dishwasher safe. Avoid abrasive detergents, steel wool, or iron sponges, which can damage the nonstick surface. Always allow your cookware to cool fully before cleaning, as plunging a hot pan in cold water can cause the pan to warp.

How to Store Ceramic Cookware

Make sure your ceramic nonstick cookware is dry before storing. Stacking ceramic pans on top of each other can scratch the nonstick interior. If stacking, place a paper towel, napkin, or trivet in between each pan to protect from damage.

How to Use Cast Iron Cookware

A little work is required before you can use a new cast iron pan. Unless it comes pre-seasoned, you’ll need to do it yourself at home. Before first use, rinse with hot water and dry thoroughly. Do not use soap. Once the pan is clean and dry, rub on a thin layer of cooking oil, buffing until it settles into the surface. Place the pan in a 450°F oven for an hour, then let fully cool.

How to Clean Cast Iron Cookware

Cast iron pans are hand-wash only. Never place cookware in a dishwasher or use abrasive cleaning pads or cleansers which can damage the pan and void the warranty. Before cooking, prepare the surface of your cast iron with cooking spray or vegetable oil. After cooking, allow pan to cool completely before washing. Clean the cast iron pan with a stiff brush and hot water; do not use soap. Towel-dry immediately. While the pan is still warm, apply a light coat of cooking spray or vegetable oil, then swipe any excess with a paper towel.

How to Store Cast Iron Cookware

Always store cast iron cookware in a cool, dry place away from the sink or stove, where it can be exposed to water or steam that causes rust. If stacking, place a paper towel, napkin, or trivet in between each pan to protect from damage.