Q.
How can I scrub pots and pans without scratching the surface?
A.
Always soak your dirtiest pots and pans in hot water for about 20 minutes to soften and loosen crusty, dried-on foods -- this step cuts the amount of rubbing and scrubbing you need to do to get a pan clean. Or, you can boil off the crusty stuff: Fill the dirty pot or pan with enough water to submerge the dirty surfaces and sides. Bring the water to a low boil over medium-high heat, and let it boil for about five minutes. To remove burned spots, add two tablespoons of baking soda to the water before boiling. Dump the hot water and instead of attacking with a steel-wool S.O.S. type scrubber, use a sponge with softer scrubby surface, like the Scotch-Brite Delicate Surface Cleaning Pad. Or, use a healthy sprinkle of table salt mixed with a small amount of water to make your own natural scrubber.
-- Colleen Rush
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