Burnt Your Favorite Pot? Don’t Panic!

I accidentally scorched the bottom of my favorite pot while cooking, and the smell was awful. I honestly thought it was ruined… but good news — it can be saved!

Most of the time, that terrible smell comes from burnt residue, not from the pot itself. With a few simple kitchen staples like baking soda, vinegar, or even a dishwasher tablet, you can lift the burnt layer and remove the odor completely.

Before throwing it away, try a deep clean and give your pot a second chance. A little patience can bring it back to life — and save you money too! 🍳✨

Method 1: Baking Soda + Vinegar (Best First Try)

1. Sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over the burnt bottom.
2. Pour white vinegar slowly until it starts fizzing.
3. Let it sit for 30–60 minutes.
4. Scrub with a non-scratch sponge or brush.
5. Rinse well.

👉 This neutralizes odor and lifts burnt carbon.

🔹 Method 2: Boiling Baking Soda (Very Effective)

1. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the burnt area.
2. Add 2–3 tablespoons baking soda.
3. Bring to a gentle boil for 10–15 minutes.
4. Turn off heat, let cool slightly.
5. Scrape gently with a wooden spoon or spatula.

🔹 Method 3: Salt + Lemon (For Smell Removal)

If the pot is clean but still smells awful:

1. Sprinkle coarse salt on the bottom.
2. Rub with a cut lemon.
3. Let sit 10 minutes, then rinse.

This is excellent for deodorizing.

🔹 Method 4: Dish Tablet Power (Stubborn Burns)

1. Place 1 dishwasher tablet in the pot.
2. Add hot water to cover the burn.
3. Let soak overnight.
4. Scrub in the morning.

⚠️ Important Warnings

• ❌ Don’t use steel wool on non-stick or enamel
• ❌ Don’t heat the pot dry again until fully cleaned
• ✅ Safe for stainless steel and most metal pots