We all know that cooking is an art, and having the right tools in your kitchen arsenal is essential. But when it comes to stainless steel pots, pans, and utensils, things can get a little dicey.
A common question we’ve seen people ask is whether or not they use metal Utensils on stainless steel ¨C a tough one to answer but let’s go over it.
Can you use metal utensils on stainless steel?
Quick answer: Yes, you can use metal utensils on stainless steel, but only with caution. However, for nonstick coating stainless steel cookware, avoid metal utensils, as this can scratch the coating off.
Long answer:
The truth is, stainless steel can be used with metal utensils without any trouble or damage.
However, there’s a but.
Despite being a tough and long-lasting material, stainless steel can still be scratched or harmed by harsh or abrasive objects.
Now this depends on the metal utensils and the types of stainless steel you have with you.
For instance, metal utensils with sharp, rough edges might be a bad idea and can leave your stainless steel with a scratched surface.
This also includes washing tools. Avoid using strong washing materials for instance Bleach, as they could also scratch or dent your stainless steel kitchenware leaving it with a pit or other colored dents.
Related: Can You Use Metal Utensils on Carbon Steel?
So, if you plan to use metal utensils, make sure they have a smooth edge and haven’t been subjected to harsh chemicals or rust.
There’s still a far better choice, though!
Why not just go after utensils made of materials that are soft on stainless steel surfaces to prevent any potential harm?
Utensils made of silicone, plastic, or wood, for instance, are the best because they won’t scratch or harm the surface.
Secondly, your stainless steel cookware design is another thing to consider.
A stainless steel cookware with a non-stick coating may be readily ruined with a metal utensil, whereas normal stainless steel would work fine.
Hence, in a situation like this, as we said earlier, it’s usually preferable to select utensils made of materials like silicone or plastic for non-stick surfaces. However, still have a recommendation of a list of non-stick that works well with metal.
Lastly, if a metal utensil were to have an effect on your stainless steel, the effect would depend on the thickness of the stainless.
- Thinner stainless steel> is more likely to get dents or wear than
- Thicker stainless steel> less likely to get dents
How to properly care for your stainless steel
Proper cleaning and upkeep are required to keep your stainless steel cookware and flatware looking brand new. Here are some guidelines for maintaining the luster and shine of stainless steel:
- Hand wash them with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or towel. Avoid using strong or abrasive cleaning agents since they might scratch or damage the stainless steel’s surface.
- To avoid water spots and stains, properly dry your stainless steel cookware and flatware after cleaning. You should also try using a microfiber cloth if you have one, since they are very absorbent and good to the surface of most stainless steel.
- You might also try using a solution of baking soda and water or a commercial stainless steel cleaner to remove stains and scratches from stainless steel if you find any. Apply the mixture there and use a soft sponge or towel to gently scrub the region.
- You can also apply a stainless steel polish or protectant to keep your stainless steel looking brand-new and glossy. These goods aid in filling in any micro-scratches and guard against harm to the stainless steel’s surface.
Alternative utensils that work well for stainless steel
If you’re concerned about using metal utensils on stainless steel, there are plenty of alternative utensils that are safe for use on stainless steel cookware and flatware. Some options include:
Plastic utensils:
These are a fantastic choice if you’re searching for a portable, low-cost, and simple-to-clean solution. It’s however still worth mentioning that, over time, stainless steel’s surface could be scratched by plastic utensils.
Wood utensils:
Now, if you prefer a more natural feel, you might consider wooden utensils. These are a time-tested choice, with a proven track record of being gentle on cookware. They’re not only durable and effective, but they also add a rustic charm to your kitchen!
One caveat, though, is they do require a bit more care to keep them in good shape. Make sure not to leave them soaking in water and occasionally oil them to prevent drying out.
Silicone utensils:
First up, let’s talk about silicone utensils.
These utensils are gaining popularity due to their versatility and gentleness on cookware surfaces. They can handle high heat, resist stains, and more importantly, they won’t scratch your stainless steel pots and pans. Plus, they come in a variety of cool colors, if you’re into matching your kitchen accessories.
Conclusion
While stainless steel can be used with metal utensils, it’s necessary to think about the stainless steel’s quality and the kind of metal utensils you are using.
Again, you’d want to totally avoid metal utensils on nonstick surfaces, regardless of the materials of the cookware.
