How to Clean Enamel Cookware: Stains, Burnt Food and Rust

Short answer: Wash enamelware with warm water, mild dish soap and a soft sponge. For burnt food or stains, soak it and use a baking soda paste. Avoid steel wool and harsh abrasives, and dry pieces fully to prevent rust on the rim.

Enamel has a smooth, glass-like surface, so most everyday cleaning is easy. Here is how to handle the tougher jobs.

Everyday cleaning

1. Let the pot cool down before washing. Sudden temperature changes can damage enamel.
2. Wash with warm water, mild dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth.
3. Rinse and dry thoroughly, especially rims and seams.

Enamelware can go in the dishwasher, but hand washing keeps the gloss longer. See can enamelware go in the dishwasher?

Burnt food on the bottom

1. Fill the pot with warm water and a little dish soap and soak for 30 minutes or longer.
2. For stubborn spots, add two spoons of baking soda, bring to a gentle simmer for a few minutes, then let it cool.
3. Loosen the residue with a wooden or silicone spatula and wash as usual.

Tea, coffee and food stains

Make a paste of baking soda and a little water, rub it gently on the stain with a soft cloth, leave it for 15 minutes and rinse. Repeat if needed. Light-colored enamel may stain more visibly over time; regular washing keeps it bright.

Rust on rims and edges

Some enamelware has a rim where steel is exposed, or a small chip may expose the steel. Light rust there is cosmetic. Remove it gently with a soft brush, dry the piece fully and rub a drop of cooking oil onto the bare steel. If the cooking surface is chipped, read is chipped enamelware safe to use?

What to avoid

• Steel wool and metal scouring pads.
• Harsh abrasive powders.
• Soaking for days, especially pieces with wooden handles.
• Plunging a hot pot into cold water.

More tips: 10 essential tips for using and caring for enamelware.

Sourcing enamelware for your store or brand?

Ningbo Yongjie supplies enamel cookware, kettles, mugs and tableware to importers, retailers, brands and gift companies in more than 20 countries. We offer 3,000+ styles, Pantone color matching, custom decals and packaging, and FDA, LFGB or other tests required by your market.

Browse our enamel casseroles and stock pots, enamel milk pans and enamel kettles, or contact us for a quote.