How do you clean a burnt area on the inside and bottom of a stainless steel pan?

Answer 1

Pour some white vinegar in the pot and slowly let the pot heat on the stove and this should remove the black burn stain. It worked for me! You may have to repeat if the first time doesn't clean it completely.

Answer 2

If strictly stainless steel (NOT a non-stick pan), first, let the pan soak in hot soapy water. Get a box of SOS or steel wool pads and start scrubbing, using light circular motions. Note that hard scrubbing can cause scratches because you're using steel wool (SOS is steel wool with cleaner). Work from outside edges then inward to the center of the burnt area. You can resoak in between scrubbing efforts. When down to the last bits of stain, rinse well and evaluate. When you feel it's been scrubbed enough, rinse with hot water, and try Bleach to lighten any remaining stain---rinse WELL with hot running water after bleach. Wash and dry as usual. Then, to help with any scratches, apply a thin amount of cooking oil and rub on the inside of the pan. Let sit.... then, rewash it in hot water and let it dry. (Do NOT put oil on the bottom outside-- you could cause a fire if oil remains on the bottom outside surface.)