How to Restore the Non-Stick Coating of an Old Pan

If your non-stick pan has been used for a long time and its coating has started to wear off, don’t rush to throw it away. There are several simple, affordable household methods that can help “revive” an old pan and improve its non-stick performance. These techniques won’t fully replace the original factory coating, but they can significantly reduce sticking and extend the life of your cookware.

Method 1: Restoring a Non-Stick Pan with Milk

Milk contains a protein called casein. When heated, casein can bond to the surface of the pan and create a thin protective layer, helping to restore some of the pan’s non-stick properties.

Steps to follow:

1. Pour fresh milk (sweetened or unsweetened) into the pan, just enough to fully cover the bottom.

2. Place the pan on the stove and heat the milk gently until it comes to a boil. Maintain medium heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Avoid high heat to prevent the milk from overflowing.

3. Turn off the stove, carefully pour out the milk, and wash the pan thoroughly to remove any lingering odor.

4. Test the result by frying an egg. If the egg slides easily without sticking, the non-stick layer has been partially restored.

This method is easy to do and works best for pans that are lightly worn rather than heavily damaged.

Method 2: Using Potatoes and Salt

Potatoes contain natural acids that help remove rust and residue from metal surfaces. They also contain riboflavin and folate, which may interact with Teflon surfaces and help improve non-stick performance.

What you need:

• 1 potato

• A small amount of salt

Instructions:

1. Peel the potato, rinse it clean, and let it dry.

2. Cut the potato in half. Sprinkle salt onto the cut side of one half.

3. Rub the salted surface over the pan to clean and polish it.

4. Use the other half to scrub areas where the non-stick coating has peeled or become rough.

5. Rinse the pan thoroughly with water and dry it completely with a clean cloth.

This method not only helps restore smoothness but also removes light rust and buildup, making the pan easier to use.

Method 3: Reviving a Non-Stick Pan with Coconut Oil and Salt

Coconut oil combined with salt is another effective way to refresh an old non-stick pan. This method cleans the surface while creating a temporary natural non-stick layer.

Ingredients needed:

• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil

• Salt

• Paper towels

How to do it:

1. Place the pan on the stove and add the coconut oil.

2. Heat the pan and tilt it so the oil coats the entire surface evenly.

3. Keep the oil hot for 2–3 minutes, then carefully pour it out.

4. Sprinkle salt evenly across the pan’s surface.

5. Use a paper towel to gently rub the salt in circular motions.

6. Discard the salt and wipe away any remaining oil or residue with a clean paper towel.

Note: This method provides a short-term improvement. After several uses, the effect may fade, but you can repeat the process regularly to maintain better non-stick performance.