How do you clean and maintain an electric frying pan?
by Karine Lemoine
The electric frying pan seduces for its simplicity: adjustable temperature, no need for a stovetop, and practical cooking at the table for some dishes. But its electric control unit imposes different cleaning precautions than a conventional frying pan.
Between the heating part to never be immersed and the cooking coating to be preserved, each element is cleaned differently.
Table of Contents

Here's how to clean an electric skillet without damaging it, and what to do to make it last.
The basic rule: unplug and cool
Before cleaning, you must always unplug the appliance and wait for it to cool completely.The temperature control unit and electrical cord should never be submerged in water, even when the pan itself is removable.
On models where the thermostat is inserted into the wall of the pan, it must be removed before going under water. It is often the forgotten step that permanently damages the device.
Clean the cooking surface
Once the control block is removed and the pan has cooled, washing in hot soapy water with a soft sponge is sufficient for most nonstick coatings. Abrasive sponges and steel wool should be avoided, as they scratch the coating and reduce its non-stick properties.
Some models have a removable dishwasher compatible bowl: it is always advisable to check the manufacturer's instructions before doing so, as this compatibility varies a lot from one model to another.
Maintain control unit and cord
The control box can only be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth, never wet. You should also check the condition of the cord and connections regularly, especially at the outlet that connects the thermostat to the pan, an area that is often exposed to grease splashes.
Before storing the appliance, each element must be completely dry, including the joints around the thermostat insertion point, to avoid any trace of humidity in contact with electricity.
Our tips
►Never submerge the control unit
Even if rinsed quickly, a thermostat that takes up water can be permanently damaged. Simply wiping with a damp cloth away from water is the only safe method.
►Always remove the probe before washing
Make it a habit to always remove the thermostatic probe before putting the pan under water; even a few seconds of inattention can be enough to damage it.
►Always let it cool before cleaning
Thermal shock on a coating that is still hot can deform or damage it. Always wait a few minutes after cooking before cleaning.
With a few simple precautions around the electrical part, an electric pan can be cleaned as easily as a conventional pan, while lasting longer.
You can also read:How do you clean a deep fryerandHow do you clean an electric shredder.
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