Stainless steel in contact with molten plastics - useable after cleaning?
(Context:) Years ago, I borrowed a stainless steel pot to an acquaintance. When they returned it, they apologised and said they had accidentally molten significant parts of a plastic ladle in it. As far as I know, they used a common home gas cooker. I don't know what happened exactly, but the pot seemed to have been thoroughly cleaned as no plastic residue was visible in the pot. I have always assumed that steel is useable after cleaning even when plastic has molten on it, and that the cleaning process has been succesful when no residue can be spotted on the steel. Today I pulled out the same pot out of the cabinet and started wondering whether this is really true.
So my question is: After contact with molten plastics (at usual temps of a home cooker) and removal of any visible residue, is there any reason not to put stainless steel cookware back onto the stove?
Best Answer
You should be OK.
If you want to be extra OK, just "cook" something in it that you will throw away and clean the pan again.
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How to damage stainless steel?
Steel wool or brushes will scratch the surface of your stainless steel and make it more susceptible to rusting and staining. Abrasive cleaners will scratch the surface and dull the finish. Bleach and cleaners with chlorine will stain and damage stainless steel.What causes stainless steel discoloration?
Stainless steel discoloration could be caused by heat, harsh chemicals, or incorrect use of stainless-steel cookware. Most discoloration is easily corrected with natural products like baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, or club soda. Cleaners containing oxalic acid can restore stainless steel.How do you fix discolored stainless steel?
Take some diluted white vinegar and scrub with a non-abrasive sponge. Then after thoroughly working the vinegar into your cookware, you just need to rinse and dry. The acidity of the vinegar will work to break down the oxidized rainbow layer to keep your stainless steel pots looking their silvery best.Can you use Comet on stainless steel pans?
If you've never cleaned the bottom of your pans, or if the discoloration and burn marks are very deep, you may want to use a gentle abrasive cleaner, such as Bar Keeper's Friend, Bon Ami, Comet, or Ajax.Learn Stainless Steel Coloring Techniques on Balustrade, Railings \u0026 Post - By AMbros Custom
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