How to Clean and Care for a Stainless Steel Roasting Pan

Quick answer

Clean your stainless steel roasting pan with a gentle dish soap soak, then use a non-abrasive scrub for stuck-on food. For nonstick pans, avoid metal tools and high heat to preserve the coating.

Step-by-step cleaning process

1. 1. Let the pan cool completely: Never plunge a hot pan into cold water—this can warp stainless steel or damage nonstick coatings. Wait until the pan is cool to the touch before cleaning.
2. 2. Soak with warm water and dish soap: Fill the pan with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Let it soak for 15–30 minutes to loosen food residue. For nonstick pans, avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub pads. Common mistake: using cold water can shock the metal; always use warm water.
3. 3. Scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge: Use a soft sponge or nylon brush to remove softened food. For stubborn baked-on stains on stainless steel, make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub gently. For nonstick pans, never use steel wool or metal scrapers. If stains persist, try a dedicated stainless steel cleaner or a brief simmer of water and vinegar in the pan.
4. 4. Rinse and dry immediately: Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots. Air drying can leave mineral deposits on stainless steel. Checkpoint: for nonstick pans, avoid stacking other pans directly on the coating—use a protective layer.
5. 5. Store properly: Store your roasting pan in a dry place. If stacking, place a paper towel or felt liner between pans to protect nonstick surfaces and prevent scratches on stainless steel.

Product spotlight

• Viking Aluminized Steel Nonstick 13" x 9" Roasting Pan: Heavy duty commercial grade aluminized steel construction quickly and uniformly distributes heat for consistent professional results. Even heat distribution means less chance of scorched spots that are hard to clean, and the aluminized steel resists rust and corrosion compared to carbon steel.