How to Clean Baking Sheets

What You'll Need

• Baking soda
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Soap-Man Lemon Glow Dish Soap
• Non-abrasive sponge
• Cream of tartar (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Make a baking soda paste

   Mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda with enough hydrogen peroxide to form a thick paste. This combination is the most effective at dissolving baked-on grease.

2. 2

   Coat the baking sheet

   Spread the paste over the entire surface of the baking sheet, concentrating on the darkest, most discolored areas.

3. 3

   Let it sit

   Allow the paste to work for 2-4 hours, or overnight for heavily stained sheets. The peroxide slowly breaks down the carbonized grease.

4. 4

   Scrub and rinse

   Scrub with a non-abrasive sponge, rinse with warm water, and dry immediately. Repeat if needed for stubborn stains.

Pro Tips

• TIPLine baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats every time you bake -- prevention is far easier than restoration.
• TIPFor aluminum baking sheets, cream of tartar and water boiled in the pan removes dark oxidation without harsh chemicals.
• TIPAvoid non-stick sprays on bare aluminum sheets -- the lecithin in sprays bakes on permanently at high temperatures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XSoaking aluminum baking sheets for long periods, which causes oxidation and pitting of the surface.
• XUsing oven cleaner on baking sheets, which is too aggressive and can warp thin sheet pans.
• XScrubbing non-stick baking sheets with abrasive pads, which removes the coating and makes the staining problem worse.

Frequently Asked Questions