Is it OK to use a scratched pan?

Author: Cara Stark  |  Last update: Sunday, June 8, 2025

A 2022 study found that scratched pans coated with these chemicals release thousands to millions of microplastics and nanoplastics. You should avoid using any scratched or dented nonstick pan to avoid exposure to potentially toxic chemicals.

When should you throw out a scratched pan?

For pans with non-stick coating, throw them out when the coating begins to flake off. For plain metal pans, scratches don't matter and you can keep using them as long as you want.

Can you get scratches out of a pan?

Wash the pan with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge to remove any debris or oils. Rinse and dry thoroughly. If there are any rough edges around the scratches, gently buff them with a non-abrasive pad designed for non-stick cookware. This can help smooth out the surface without damaging the coating further.

Can you use our place pan if scratched?

When your pans are scratched, some of the nonstick coating can flake into your food (the pan also becomes stickier). This can release toxic compounds... With moderate use, nonstick pans last only about five years. If your pan is damaged, throw it out to be on the safe side.

Can I use a non-stick pan after the coating is gone?

It is not safe to use a Teflon coated or any non- stock pan when the coating peeled or cracked. This includes cuts from sharp utensils. Be safe and get a new pan.

Nonstick Pan Safety ANSWERS

Is it safe to cook with a scratched non-stick pan?

Damaged Non-stick Pans Should Not Be Used

Using a pan with damaged coating can cause your food to be contaminated by PFAS, micro- and nanoplastics.

What can I do with old scratched cookware?

Sites like Craigslist and Freecycle are good options for finding your cookware a new home, as are secondhand stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army. A few scratches or dings may matter to you, but that doesn't make your pots and pans unusable.

Is it safe to use scratched aluminum pans?

Discard aluminum cookware if it shows signs of pitting or damage, as this could increase aluminum leaching. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and use utensils that won't scratch the surface to prevent increased leaching of aluminum into your food.

Is it safe to use scratched green pans?

Scratches, dents, or pits in the coating won't affect the safety or performance of your pan. HOW CAN I DEEP CLEAN MY PAN?

How to clean a scratched non-stick pan?

“All you need to do is get some Fairy liquid and a soft sponge—never use a scourer—give it a wash and dry it up,” Louise said. “Fairy liquid” refers to a dish soap brand, so your go-to dish soap will do. After you've cleaned your pan, rinse and dry it off.

Is it safe to use a scratched copper pan?

When cooking with copper pans, using ones with a lining or coating helps prevent copper residue or toxins from leaching into your food. Be sure to watch for wear and tear or scratches on the coating, as any residue in your food could lead to toxicity.

What to do if you scratch your stainless steel pan?

Baking soda is quite effective in removing light scratches on stainless steel. It has a powdery texture that serves as a gentle abrasive. Add water and baking soda to make a paste, put it to the surface of the metal and scrub lightly. Then wipe off the baking soda and wipe the surface with a damp cloth.

When should you throw away cookware?

“Like a mattress that's been sliced open and has stuffing and foam coming out of it, if you can see the core of your cookware, you need to throw it out,” Maker says. “Most of the time, it'll be a copper base, so you'll know when it's visible.”

How long should nonstick pans last?

One can expect five to seven years from a pan with a quality coating, according to Fran Groesbeck, managing director of the Cookware and Bakeware Alliance. But, and it's a big but: How you treat your nonstick pan will ultimately determine how long it lasts.

Should you wash a pan after buying it?

Wash and dry it thoroughly first (remember not to use an abrasive scourer or cleaner), and make sure that the surface is well coated with fat or oil when you cook in it the first time.

Can you buff scratches out of aluminum?

For light scratches, a little Flitz Polish on a microfiber with some gentle rubbing will generally do the trick. Just make sure to use as little polish as possible and remove any remaining polish with a soft cloth.

When should I replace my aluminum pan?

You may notice when your pots and pans start to lose their shape — these are often signs of age with stainless steel or aluminum cookware. Food may not cook properly if your pans begin to warp, as heat will be unevenly distributed or certain areas on the pot are hotter than others.

Is aluminum prone to scratches?

As a material, aluminium has properties that make it very scratch-resistant for use in gates. Pure aluminium is soft and prone to scratching and denting easily. But garden gates are made from aluminium alloys which have blended the metal with others like magnesium, silicon, and zinc to make it much stronger.

What to do with worn out non-stick pans?

If the non-stick (PTFE-coated) cookware is worn out, it should be disposed of in the trash.

Is it safe to use old cookware?

Some antique cookware, especially ceramic, porcelain, and enamel pieces, might contain lead or other harmful metals in the glaze. Some may even have been made with clay contaminated with heavy metals and other impurities. Over time, with wear and chipping, these harmful substances can leach into food.

Are scratched cast iron pans safe?

Patches and scratches are perfectly okay on your iron pans

⁠They are designed to be lifelong workhorses, after all.

Can you use a scratched pan?

A 2022 study found that scratched pans coated with these chemicals release thousands to millions of microplastics and nanoplastics. You should avoid using any scratched or dented nonstick pan to avoid exposure to potentially toxic chemicals.

What is the safest cookware for your health?

ceramic is among the safest material for pans

From dishes, to glasses, bakeware and cookware, ceramic bakeware is our pick for the best cookware material for health thanks to its non-reactive nature and resistance to high temperatures and acidic foods. Plus it's so pretty!

Can I use a pan if the coating is coming off?

Flaking or peeling: If you see the nonstick surface peeling off or flaking into your food, it's time for a new pan. The coating is breaking down and can end up in your meals.

Previous article
Is Pine coming back in fashion?
Next article
How many coats of primer on a new ceiling?