Are Electric Skillets Dishwasher Safe?
An electric skillet is a versatile cooking appliance that can be connected to an electric outlet and managed by using temperature control. You can cook in an electric skillet everything you would cook in a regular skillet.
When using an electric frying pan, it is necessary to strictly follow the instructions for use and maintenance to avoid injuries and possible damage to the appliance. In the manual, you may read that your electric pan is dishwasher-safe once detached from the base.
When it comes to washing, no matter what the instruction book says, learn from experienced chefs and wash the non-stick surface by hand to keep your appliance functional for longer.
If you do wash the pan in the dishwasher, the non-stick cooking surface may wear off quickly as a result. Machine detergents are harsh to the non-stick cooking surface and may significantly compromise its functionality. That is why it’s advisable to wash your non-stick pan by hand. It wipes and cleans easily because the food doesn’t stick. Another mess-reducing feature of electric skillets is the high sides that help to prevent oil splatters, keeping your countertop clean.
You can wash the lid in the dishwasher if you want, but make sure to dry it completely before storage.
How to Clean an Electric Skillet
1. Cleaning Before the First Use
It is necessary to wash your new piece of kitchenware before you start using it. Washing will remove dust and other impurities from the manufacturing process. You need to detach the pan from the base before washing as the electrical parts are not suitable for contact with water. Make sure to wash the lid, also. Wash the pan in the sink with lukewarm water and mild detergent. Rinse with clean water and allow it to dry completely.
2. Cleaning After Each Use
The first and most important step is to unplug your skillet before you begin any cleaning. The non-stick surface makes cleaning a breeze. In most cases, you can wipe it out with a paper towel to remove any food residue.
Always allow the unit to cool completely before washing the pan. This will save the pan from damage and warping. However, do not let the pan stay unwashed for a long time because it is easier to remove food residue soon after cooking. Wash the pan and lid in the sink with warm soapy water and a soft sponge.
Wipe down the exterior with a sponge soaked in soapy water. Use a non-abrasive scrubber if necessary.
To clean more persistent spots, soak the pan in water with dishwashing liquid for a while, then use a plastic brush or nylon scraper to gently remove food residues. Never use steel wool or other abrasives.
Towel dry the connector and base with a clean cloth or slightly wet wipe. Make sure not to get any water inside the connector entry.
3. How to Clean a Burnt Electric Skillet
If you have a problem with stubborn burn spots, heat the pan to a temperature of 150 degrees, and then unplug the appliance and detach the pan from the base. Mix 2 teaspoons of baking soda with 2 teaspoons of water. Apply a thin film of paste to the affected area and leave it to sit for 1 hour. After the time is passed, gently remove the gunk with a nylon mesh cleaning pad and then wash the pan with warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse with clean warm water, towel-dry, and allow the pan to air-dry completely.
Storage
It is very important that the appliance is bone dry before storage or before connecting to power. This appliance can take up a lot of storage space. Store the unit in a dry place such as a shelf in your cupboard or in the pantry.
The electrical cord and the temperature control unit can be placed inside the skillet to keep all parts in one place. Some models (such as Presto 06857 16-inch Electric Foldaway Skillet) are designed to put the base inside the pan for more convenient storage. Don’t forget to put a paper towel inside the pan to protect the non-stick surface from scratches.
What Utensils to Use?
Use wooden, nylon, or silicone utensils and spatulas while cooking in an electric pan. Metal utensils may scratch the non-stick surface. For the same reason, don’t cut the food inside the pan.
Useful Tips
- Do not heat the skillet to the maximum temperature, as high temperatures can shorten the durability of the non-stick surface.
- It is possible that due to the position of the heater, some parts of the pan heat up more than others. That is why it is necessary to turn the food over and mix it for even cooking.
- Do not leave your electric skillet boil dry as this may damage the non-stick coating.
- Using oil can prevent sticking. Never use cooking sprays, as it sticks to a nonstick surface and can be hard to remove.
- Make it a habit to unplug the skillet immediately after use to prevent potential accidents.
Advantages of an Electric Skillet
An electric frying pan may offer some convenient advantages over regular frying pans:
- It’s ideal when you need extra cooking space and more variety of meals during holidays and parties.
- An electric skillet can be the solution for small apartments without a stove.
- An electric frying pan is more energy-efficient than an electric stove or oven.
- You can use an electric skillet to keep foods warm before serving.
An electric skillet can add more diversity to your kitchen area and help you with everyday cooking tasks. Take good care of it and it will serve its function well for a long time.
