A flat non-stick tawa is perfect for pancakes, flatbreads and omelettes, but over time it builds up a layer of polymerised grease. A quick rinse under the tap does not shift it, the coating darkens, food starts to stick, and eventually the build-up can ruin the surface for good.
Vinegar or a baking soda paste deals with fresh marks, but old residue takes several rounds of scrubbing. Below is how to soften stubborn grease quickly with WD-40 Multi-Use and then wash the pan thoroughly so it is ready for cooking again.
What you will need
- WD-40 Multi-Use
- soft nylon sponge (no metal or abrasive layer)
- clean cotton cloth or paper towels
- washing-up liquid and warm water
- rubber gloves
Important: WD-40 is not a food product. Apply it only to a cold pan off the hob, work with a window open, and after cleaning always wash the pan twice with washing-up liquid, including the handle and the underside. Do not use steel wool or abrasive powders: they scratch the non-stick coating.
Step 1
Cool and prepare the pan
Wait until the pan has cooled completely and take it off the hob. Never spray an aerosol onto a hot surface or near an open flame.
Rinse off crumbs and fresh grease with warm water and dry the pan. This way the product works only on the old residue.
Step 2
Apply a thin layer of WD-40
Lightly spray WD-40 Multi-Use onto the tawa or onto a cloth and spread it evenly over the whole cooking surface, especially dark spots and the edges.
Do not overdo it: extra product will not speed up cleaning, it will only run off and make washing harder.
Step 3
Let the product work
Leave the pan for 5-10 minutes. During this time WD-40 gets under the layer of polymerised grease and loosens its grip on the coating.
On very old residue you can apply it again and wait a few more minutes.
Step 4
Wipe off the softened residue
Wipe the surface with a soft nylon sponge or cloth in light circular movements. The softened grease comes away with the product, so there is no need to press hard.
Collect what remains with a paper towel. If any dark spots are left, treat them again locally.
Step 5
Wash the pan thoroughly
Wash the tawa in warm water with washing-up liquid, then wash it a second time and rinse well. Wipe the handle and underside so no product remains on them.
Dry the pan. Before cooking with it again, you can warm it and wipe it with a paper towel carrying a drop of cooking oil to restore the non-stick feel.
Tip: To stop grease building up again, wash the tawa straight after each use while it is warm but not hot, and never leave it soaking overnight. Using only a little fat when cooking also reduces burnt-on residue.
What next
A deep clean of old grease is needed only every few months, depending on how often you cook. WD-40 Multi-Use has other kitchen uses too: squeaky cupboard hinges, sticky label residue and protecting metal parts from moisture.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».