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Cooking & Care Q&As

1.	"If nothing sticks to Teflon™, then how does Teflon™ stick to a pan?"
2.	"What is the best way to clean my nonstick pan?"
3.	"Can I use an abrasive cleaner or scouring pad?"
4.	"What is the best way to ensure that cookware with Teflon™ nonstick coatings continue to perform for the life of the cookware?"
5.	"Can Teflon™ be used in the microwave or refrigerator?"
6.	"Are there any temperature precautions I need to know?"
7.	"Can I really cook without oil, butter, or other fats? What about baking?"
8.	"Why should I choose Teflon™ nonstick coatings over other alternatives?"
9.	"Can I brown food using cookware coated with Teflon™ nonstick coatings?"
» Also see Common Myths About Nonstick Cookware and Key Safety Questions. You can Contact Us any time with your questions — we'd love to hear from you.

1.	"If nothing sticks to Teflon™, then how does Teflon™ stick to a pan?"
	Nonstick coatings are applied in layers. The first layer is the primer—and it's the special chemistry in the primer that makes it adhere to the metal surface of a pan. » Learn more about how nonstick coatings work

2.	"What is the best way to clean my nonstick pan?"
	Simply wash with hot, soapy water after each use. A sponge or dishcloth is usually all it takes to get the surface thoroughly clean. If oil or food residue is left on the pan, further cooking will harden the residue and cause sticking over time. For pans that have "carbonized"—where a thin film of oil has baked onto the pan—we recommend you use a little more elbow grease when cleaning in order to break through this layer. Future cleanings will be as easy as with new.

3.	"Can I use an abrasive cleaner or scouring pad?"
	The superior nonstick performance of Teflon™ nonstick coatings means you won't have to use abrasive cleaners. If you do need a little extra "oomph" in your cleaning, use a nonabrasive cleaner like Bon Ami™ or one of the soft scrub cleansers. A sponge, Scrunge™, or other cleaning pad labeled safe for nonsticks will also work nicely.

4.	"What is the best way to ensure that cookware with Teflon™ nonstick coatings continue to perform for the life of the cookware?"
	Maintenance is just as easy since today's Teflon™ nonstick coatings are more durable than ever. Generally, the use of plastic, nylon, and wooden utensils are best because they prevent marring, although most metal utensils are safe to use with some of the more durable Teflon™ coatings. Always avoid using knives and cutting food in the pan and wash with hot soapy water after each use. Store carefully to prevent scratching—a hanging pot rack is a safe, convenient way to store pans.

5.	"Can Teflon™ be used in the microwave or refrigerator?"
	Teflon™ nonstick coatings can be used on top of the range, in the oven, and in the microwave. They can be stored in the refrigerator. However, the material of the cookware itself may not be suitable for certain applications (for example, metal pans should not be used in the microwave). Be sure to check the cookware manufacturer's guidelines for proper usage.

6.	"Are there any temperature precautions I need to know?"
	Low or medium heat is recommended; however, Teflon™ nonstick coatings can withstand temperatures up to 500°F—that's well above temperatures needed for frying, baking, and roasting.

7.	"Can I really cook without oil, butter, or other fats? What about baking?"
	Teflon™ nonstick coatings release food so easily, you really don't need to use added fat for cooking unless you want to for flavor. For baking, we do suggest a light greasing of the pan to achieve the best results for these more delicate creations.

8.	"Why should I choose Teflon™ nonstick coatings over other alternatives?"
	DuPont invented nonstick surfaces for cookware, and has been the leader ever since, before handing over to Chemours. Go to "How do nonstick coatings work?" for a full explanation of why Teflon™ nonstick coatings are the world's most popular among home cooks and professionals alike.

9.	"Can I brown food using cookware coated with Teflon™ nonstick coatings?"
	Yes, definitely. Browning food in a nonstick pan may even impart a richer color and flavor than some traditional browning recipes. This is because the delicious, rich liquid resulting from browning your main ingredient does not stick to the pan, which is a good thing. » Learn more about successful browning