How to Care for Hard Anodized Ceramic Nonstick Cookware

Quick answer

Treat hard anodized ceramic nonstick as a low-heat, low-impact pan: wash it by hand with mild soap and a soft sponge, avoid metal utensils and cooking sprays, and never plunge a hot pan into cold water.

Step-by-step care routine

1. Cook with moderate heat and a little fat: Preheat the pan on medium, not high, and add a small amount of oil or butter before adding food. Ceramic nonstick releases best at moderate temperatures; high heat breaks down the coating over time. Never leave an empty pan on a hot burner, even for a short time.
2. Use the right utensils: Reach for silicone, wood, or plastic tools. Metal spatulas and whisks can scratch the ceramic surface, and once scratched, the nonstick property degrades quickly. Keep a dedicated set of nonstick-safe utensils near the stove as a visual reminder.
3. Let the pan cool before washing: After cooking, set the pan aside until it reaches room temperature. Plunging a hot pan into cold water can warp the anodized body and cause the coating to crack or flake. If you need to serve immediately, transfer food to a plate and leave the pan to cool while you eat.
4. Hand-wash with mild soap and a soft sponge: Use warm water, a small amount of dish soap, and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Avoid scouring pads, steel wool, and harsh detergents, which can dull or scratch the coating. For stubborn residue, soak the pan in warm soapy water for 10–15 minutes before wiping.
5. Dry thoroughly and store with protection: Dry the pan with a soft towel and store it with a felt or paper protector between stacked pans. Moisture left on the surface can leave water spots, and metal-on-metal contact can chip the coating. Hang pans if possible, or stack only with protectors to prevent abrasion.
6. Skip cooking sprays and aerosol oils: Many cooking sprays contain propellants and additives that can build up on ceramic nonstick and become difficult to remove. Use a drizzle of liquid oil or a small pat of butter instead. If you do use spray, wipe the surface immediately after cooking to prevent residue buildup.

Product note

• Viking Hard Anodized Ceramic Nonstick 12pc Cookware set: The Viking Hard Anodized Ceramic Nonstick 12pc Set includes a 10-inch fry pan, 12-inch fry pan, 2-quart and 3-quart saucepans with glass lids, a 6-quart Dutch oven with glass lid, and a 3-quart sauté pan with glass lid. With multiple pan sizes and lids, you can match the pan to the task and reduce the temptation to overcrowd or overheat one pan, which helps protect the coating.