Older vs. newer stainless pans
My newer pans scratch really easily but I noticed that my mother's older, (bought in the 70s I think) heavier stainless pans don't scratch easily at all. The inside of hers looks a bit like the bottom (exterior) of my newer pan, sort of like a stainless steel sink, heavy duty. Hers are super easy to clean, mine always need baking soda to clean. I have a bottom of the line Henckels pan and a reasonably good Denby pan, both 18/10 stainless I think but they are very thin on the sides. They also look like they have a bit of a finish to make them look shiny. I'm wondering if the older pans are a lot better than what is available now. I hope I haven't repeated any questions answered before. Thanks!
Best Answer
Without question, newly manufactured metalware does not match the quality of the same items made several decades ago.
I collect a classic style of (copper bottomed) stainless steel cookware that used to be manufactured in the United States. The oldest pieces are heavier and have a finer, more durable finished cooking surface than newer items.
A well-maintained old pan is a treasure, that can often be had for very little money at a yard sale or flea market, and will be far superior to similarly styled brand new cookware.
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Is it safe to use old stainless steel cookware?
Older cookware: Some old or badly burned stainless steel pans may allow chemicals to seep into food as well. And if you're scouring yard sales or second-hand stores for pans that are nonstick, beware that they may contain Teflon. In general, it's best to opt for newer cookware when replacing a pan.When should you throw out stainless steel pans?
A good rule of thumb is to replace them approximately every five years. Look at your pans frequently. When they start to appear warped, discolored or scratched, be sure to stop using them.What is the best grade of stainless steel for cookware?
When it comes to cookware, stainless steel is the most popular because it works with all ingredients and cooking methods. The best food service stainless steel has a grade of 18/8 or 18/10, which indicates the ideal chromium to nickel ratio for superior corrosion resistance.How long are stainless steel pans good for?
Most stainless steel pans will last several decades (or longer) if you take good care of them. If you avoid warping, pitting, and rusting, a stainless steel pan can last a lifetime. However, if you buy cheap pans and don't use, clean, and store them properly, they may only last one to three years.A TRICK EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW | How to make any stainless steel pan non-stick | THE MERCURY BALL TEST
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