How to take care of your frying pans properly
A frying pan is one of the most used kitchen tools in households, and for good reason. That's why it's important to maintain and clean it properly so it lasts for many years. Some people believe that expensive frying pans last longer — but in reality, it comes down to quality and how you care for it. In this blog post, we’ll share helpful tips on how to properly look after your frying pan, especially if it has a non-stick coating.
How do you maintain a non-stick frying pan?
Non-stick frying pans require a little extra care, as their surface is more prone to scratches, cracks, and wear. By following these tips, you can preserve the coating and extend the life of your pan:
1) Avoid high heat
Non-stick coatings are generally heat-resistant up to around 260 °C (500 °F). Exposing the pan to higher temperatures may damage the coating or reduce its non-stick performance. Fortunately, most dishes don’t require such high heat — medium heat is sufficient for everyday cooking.
2) Don’t use metal utensils
Metal tools like forks, knives, or stainless-steel spatulas can scratch and damage the non-stick surface. Instead, use utensils made of wood, silicone, or plastic.
The same rule applies to steel wool — it should only be used as a last resort if food is severely burnt onto the surface. If you do use it, be extremely cautious.
Tip: ONYX Cookware frying pans are among the few non-stick pans that can safely withstand metal utensils and steel wool. However, we still recommend using gentler methods whenever possible to maximise durability.
3) Season the pan before first use
Before you use your non-stick frying pan for the first time, it’s a good idea to lightly season it. This helps extend the lifespan of the coating.
Dip a paper towel in oil or liquid margarine and coat the entire inner surface of the pan evenly. Then heat the pan on medium heat for about 2 minutes, remove it from the stove, and let it cool completely.
Some pans may require multiple rounds of seasoning. ONYX Cookware pans come with a detailed user manual to guide you through the process.
4) Use butter or oil – avoid cooking sprays
One of the key advantages of non-stick frying pans is that they require less fat for cooking. However, we recommend avoiding cooking sprays, as they can leave behind a sticky residue that gradually diminishes the non-stick effect. Use regular oil or butter instead.
5) Don’t cool a hot pan with cold water
This is a common mistake: rinsing a hot pan under cold water. The resulting thermal shock can cause the metal to warp. A warped bottom means uneven heat distribution and poor contact with the stovetop — sometimes even making the pan unusable.
Always let your pan cool naturally before washing it.
6) Gentle cleaning is key
Avoid harsh detergents and abrasive sponges. Clean your pan with warm water, mild dish soap, and the soft side of a sponge. If food is burnt onto the surface, soak the pan first.
Good to know: ONYX Cookware non-stick pans are particularly durable. They are dishwasher safe and even tolerate steel wool. However, for the longest possible lifespan, we still recommend washing them by hand with gentle tools.
How often should you replace a frying pan?
It depends on the type of coating:
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Single-layer PTFE coating: approx. 1 year
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Ceramic pans: approx. 3 years
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Multi-layer PTFE coating: up to 5 years
This lifespan is comparable to other types of kitchen equipment used in most households.
Is it worth investing in a high-quality non-stick pan?
Absolutely! If you enjoy cooking, high-quality tools make a big difference. A good non-stick frying pan makes cooking faster, easier, and more enjoyable — and often healthier.
At ONYX Cookware, we frequently receive positive feedback from happy customers who appreciate the longevity and performance of our pans. Our range includes both ceramic and classic non-stick models — discover them here.
We hope these tips help you get the most out of your frying pan. Good maintenance isn’t difficult — but it’s key to making your pan last.