Why Your Pots and Pans Always Feel Sticky—and How to Clean Them

It's a common problem: Even after vigorously washing your cookware, a stickiness remains when you reach for it ahead of preparing your next meal. To rid your pots and lids of stubborn film or residue, you'll need common household products and expert techniques. Fortunately, you'll find out more about both below.

Scroll on to learn why this pesky stickiness occurs—and how to get rid of it.

Why Does Cookware Get So Sticky?

According to Lauren DaSilva, senior product manager for All-Clad, both chemistry and cooking byproducts are to blame for sticky residues. “Oils and fats can break down at high heat and polymerize into a tacky film, while steam carries tiny particles of grease upward, settling on cooler surfaces like lids,” she explains. “Add in splatters, starchy foods, and detergents that aren’t fully rinsed away, and the residue can harden into a stubborn layer.” 

No type of material is immune to this annoyance, DaSilva adds. Even high-quality glass and stainless steel cookware experience it, which is why regular (and proper) cleaning is paramount. 

Recipe developer Marissa Stevens also highlights cooking spray as being a top culprit in a sticky cookware situation. The additives burn fast and essentially glue themselves to the pan’s surface. So if possible, it’s best to avoid.

How to Remove Sticky, Stubborn Residue From Cookware

If you're stuck dealing with sticky stainless steel, glass lids, or plastic or metal handles after cleaning your cookware (using its regular cleaning method), here's how to lift the polymerized oils and burnt debris left behind.

Method 1: Bar Keeper's Friend

1. In a small container, mix a few teaspoons of water with Bar Keeper’s Friend to form a paste.
   
2. Next, apply the paste to the sticky or gummy areas of your cookware. Let sit for 3-5 minutes, DaSilva says.
   
3. Take a soft sponge and gently scrub in circular motions to agitate.
   
4. Rinse off the cookware with warm water, and repeat the process as needed.

Method 2: Baking Soda

For extra sticky hardware, rivets, and rims, Stevens recommends reaching for a pantry staple.

1. Combine baking soda, salt, and a small amount of hot water in a small container.
2. Apply the mixture to affected areas. Let sit for 3-5 minutes,
3. Gently agitate using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
4. Rinse clean.

Method 3: For Burnt-On Food Residue

Take note—this method is only suitable for stainless steel pans.

1. Add a 1:1 water and vinegar mixture to the pan and bring it to a gentle boil.
   
2. Pour out the mixture and allow the pan to cool slightly.
   
3. Sprinkle baking soda on the warm (but not hot) surface.
   
4. Use a non-abrasive sponge to scrub away residue.

How to Prevent That Dreaded Stickiness

Good habits in the kitchen can help cut down on sticky pots and pans. One of the easiest fixes? Don’t let your greasy cookware marinate in the dirty sink water. The oil just spreads around rather than truly breaking down as it needs to.

And using a mild dish soap won't hack it—it needs to be formulated to cut through baked-on grease, so it doesn't turn into sticky residue down the line.