How to Clean Baking Pans (Cake Pans, Loaf Pans, and More)

Baking pans — whether cake pans, loaf pans, or brownie pans — develop stubborn grease buildup and dark staining over time. Here's how to clean every type effectively without damaging the surface.

What You'll Need

• Bar Keepers Friend Powder Cleanser — for aluminum, stainless steel, and enamel pans
• Amazon Basics Non-Scratch Sponges
• Baking soda and dish soap
• Warm water

How to Clean Aluminum Baking Pans

Aluminum is the most common baking pan material but is prone to discoloration and staining.

1. Wash with warm soapy water and a non-scratch sponge for everyday cleaning.
2. For dark stains, make a paste of cream of tartar and water. Apply, let sit 10 minutes, scrub, and rinse.
3. Alternatively, use Bar Keepers Friend — it's safe for aluminum and removes oxidation effectively.
4. Never put aluminum pans in the dishwasher — they will discolor permanently.

How to Clean Non-Stick Baking Pans

1. Let cool completely before washing.
2. Wash with warm soapy water and the soft side of a non-scratch sponge only.
3. For stuck-on batter, soak in warm soapy water for 15–30 minutes before scrubbing.
4. Never use abrasive cleaners or the scrubbing side of a sponge on non-stick surfaces.

How to Clean Dark or Stained Baking Pans

For pans with heavy baked-on grease:

1. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the pan.
2. Add enough dish soap to form a paste.
3. Let sit for 30–60 minutes.
4. Scrub with a non-scratch sponge and rinse. Repeat if needed.

How to Clean Glass Baking Pans

1. Soak in warm soapy water for 15 minutes.
2. Scrub with a non-scratch sponge.
3. For stubborn stains, use a baking soda paste and let sit 20 minutes before scrubbing.
4. Glass pans are dishwasher safe, but hand washing prevents cloudiness.

How to Prevent Baking Pan Staining

• Always line pans with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat before use
• Grease pans lightly — excess oil bakes on and stains
• Clean promptly after use while residue is still soft

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use steel wool on baking pans?

Only on uncoated stainless steel pans. Never on aluminum, non-stick, or glass — it will cause permanent damage.

How do I remove burnt cake from a pan?

Fill the pan with warm water and a tablespoon of dish soap. Let soak for 1–2 hours. The burnt cake should loosen enough to remove with a soft sponge.

Why do my baking pans warp in the oven?

Thin pans warp due to rapid temperature changes. Use heavy-gauge pans and avoid placing cold pans directly into a very hot oven.