How to Remove Burn Marks and Stains from a Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker

 

As careful as we can be in the kitchen, it’s always worrisome to see that stainless-steel pressure cooker showing its age. An occasional burnt dal here and sticky curry there could make your once sparkling steel cooker lose its luster.

 

But dont worry. Hiding it in the back of the cabinet or tossing it out isn’t your only option. In this post, we explore easy, home-based solutions that will help you remove burn marks and bring back the gloss on your stainless steel pressure cooker.

 

Why Do We Often Get Burn Marks (Even Expert Chefs)

 

I am certain that even pro chefs must have experienced high temperatures or low water levels at some point in their cooking careers. Unlike non-stick pans, a pressure cooker—especially a stainless one—will lack that non-stick coating. Because of this bare stainless surface, food will scorch if the heat is not monitored carefully.

 

This is true for high starch meals like khichdi, dal and halwa which people make in a 1 litre pressure cooker for instant meals. While induction top pressure cookers give sets of precise heat control, they are not mistake-proof.

 

Method 1: Boil with Baking Soda and Vinegar===

 

This home method is safe and always work.

 

Steps:

 

Put into the cooker 1 cup water, 2 tb spoons baking soda, 1 tb spoon vinegar.

 

Allow boiling to 5-10 minutes.

 

Cool and then scrub with a gentle non-abrasive scrubber.

 

If you have a triply pressure cooker which is regularly used, this will help maintain its layered finish with dark burn marks and light stains.

 

Method 2: Lemon And Salt For Natural Clean ===

 

For those who prefer all natural methods, this combo works magic on discoloration along with pesky mild residues.

 

Steps:

 

Take one lemon, squeeze the juice into the cooker.

 

Add one tablespoon of salt.

 

Scrub it after letting sit for 10-15 minutes.

 

This method is remarkable on those looking to preserve the old look of their prestige and hawk pressure cookers.

 

Method 3: Use Steel Polish For Pro Finish===

 

These steel polishes, available in most supermarkets, work wonders on stainless steel pressure cookers. If the stains are too persistent for home methods, don’t fret as these will restore gleam to the cooker.

 

Just make sure to rinse it thoroughly after using, especially if the usage is internal. 

 

Bonus Tips to Prevent Stains from Forming 

Always add adequate water for the pressure cooker of 2 liters or larger. 

Do not allow high flame to be on for long periods of time. 

Make sure the cooker is clean right after using—do not leave food in the cooker overnight. 

If you are using high-powered gas stoves, make sure to use a heat diffuser. 

Even modern cookers like the induction top pressure cooker or layered-base triply pressure cookers will appreciate these simple habits.   

 

Conclusion: Maintain Your Cooker, Maintain Efficiency 

Your stainless steel pressure cooker is as good as new, and will continue to serve you for ages if you maintain it. Compact pressure cookers of 1 litre, or older models from Hawkins and Prestige, maintain their charm and performance with some cleaning tips shared here. 

Looking to upgrade or add a second one for daily use? Check out our curated collection designed to complement every Indian kitchen.