How to Clean a Muffin Tin (Including Stubborn Baked-On Residue)

Muffin tins are notoriously difficult to clean — the individual cups trap batter, grease, and burnt residue in hard-to-reach corners. Here's how to get them spotless without damaging the surface.

What You'll Need

• Amazon Basics Non-Scratch Sponges
• Bar Keepers Friend Powder Cleanser — for non-stick and aluminum tins
• Baking soda and dish soap
• A small cleaning brush or old toothbrush (for cup edges)
• Warm water

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Muffin Tin

Step 1: Soak Immediately After Use

As soon as the tin is cool enough to handle, fill each cup with warm water and a drop of dish soap. Let soak for 15–30 minutes. This prevents batter from hardening and makes scrubbing much easier.

Step 2: Scrub Each Cup

Use the soft side of a non-scratch sponge to scrub each cup individually. For the edges and corners, use a small cleaning brush or old toothbrush to reach into tight spots.

Step 3: For Stubborn Baked-On Residue

Make a paste of baking soda and dish soap. Apply to the affected cups and let sit for 20–30 minutes. Scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly.

Step 4: For Dark Staining on Aluminum Tins

Sprinkle Bar Keepers Friend into the cups, add a little water, and scrub gently with a sponge. Rinse completely. This removes oxidation and dark discoloration effectively.

Step 5: Dry Thoroughly

Dry the tin completely — especially the cups — before storing. Trapped moisture causes rust on uncoated metal tins.

How to Clean a Non-Stick Muffin Tin

• Use only warm soapy water and the soft side of a non-scratch sponge
• Never use abrasive cleaners or the scrubbing side of a sponge
• Soak stubborn residue rather than scrubbing hard
• Avoid the dishwasher — it degrades non-stick coatings

How to Prevent Muffin Tin Buildup

• Always use paper or silicone muffin liners — they eliminate cleanup almost entirely
• Grease cups lightly and evenly if not using liners
• Clean promptly after every use while residue is still soft

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put a muffin tin in the dishwasher?

Stainless steel tins are generally dishwasher safe. Aluminum tins will discolor. Non-stick tins should always be hand washed to preserve the coating.

How do I remove rust from a muffin tin?

Scrub rust spots with Bar Keepers Friend and a non-scratch sponge. Rinse, dry completely, and rub a thin layer of vegetable oil over the surface to prevent future rust.

My muffins always stick even when I grease the tin. Why?

The non-stick coating may be worn out, or you may not be greasing evenly. Try using paper liners or a silicone muffin pan instead.