What Should I do if my Ceramic Cookware is Sticking?

Ceramic cookware is a kitchen game-changer and one of our go-to's for everyday cooking given it's non-toxic and non-stick properties. 

But while it is non-stick, it doesn't mean that it's impossible for food sticking to happen. Like any piece of cookware, it works best when you treat it right and here's a simple guide to what you should and shouldn't do to get the most out of your ceramic pan or ceramic pot. 

Tip #1 - Use Low to Medium Heat 

Ceramic cookware heats up quickly and holds heat well, so you don't need to crank it up. Not just isolated to ceramic cookware, using high heat on any piece of cookware on a regular basis can actually shorted the lifespan of your non-stick surface, but particularly with ceramic, gentle and consistent will go a long way. 

Tip #2 - Never Heat the Pan While It's Dry 

Are you noticing charring and black markings on your cookware after adding your food and sauces to the pan? Then it's likely that your pan is much too hot before even starting to cook.

Always add a little oil, butter or liquid before you turn the heat on. Heating a ceramic pan when it's completely dry can cause food to stick badly and may even damage your coating over time. It really doesn't need much, just a small dab of oil on a paper towel, or a pat of butter swirled around before you start cooking. 

Tip #3 - Use High Smoke Point Oils 

High smoke-point oils such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil don't burn as easily as olive oil and as such won't end up damaging your pans non-stick properties. 

Refrain from using spray oils as they tend to leave a sticky residue on ceramic surfaces making it hard to clean. As such, we recommend sticking with oil or butter, even a teaspoon is plenty.

Tip #4 - Still Sticking Even After Washing? 

This could mean that you still have some loose food, or burned-on oils or residue from your previous cook which is preventing the pans non-stick properties to shine through. 

A simple remedy to tackle left over residue is: 

1. Fill the pan or pot halfway with soapy water and bring it to a near-boil and leave for about 5 minutes 
2. Using a non-scratch utensil, gentry scrub away at problem areas and you should see the residue lift 
3. Leave the pan to cool completely before pouring out the water 
4. Give the pan one more wash under warm water and using a non-abrasive scrub, go in again on any remaining problem areas 
5. Dry completely and repeat again as needed 

Tip #5 - Avoid Using Abrasive Scrubbers 

Ceramic cookware is naturally easy to clean, so no need to go in heavy-handed. Avoid steel wool or gritty cleaners. A regular sponge and soapy warm water should be more than enough. If something is truly stuck, try our residue release method from Tip #4. 

Looking for the Right Ceramic Cookware? 

Explore our full Ceramic Sets Collection and set yourself up with cookware that's as easy to use as it is to clean.