Buying new cookware can be a big challenge, and especially if you are particular on details and quality. Different names and brands of cookware might keep popping up and some of the most commonly preferred and mentioned types include hard-anodized and anodized cookware sets.
It is not hard therefore to hear shoppers asking some very commonly asked questions such as “what is hard anodized cookware?” while others will ask “what is anodized cookware?” Is there any difference between iodized and hard iodized cookware sets and if yes, which one is better than the other?
Well, we will seek to answer these questions as a way of guiding your selection once faced with these two major options in the world of cookware.
What is hard anodized cookware?
Hard iodized cookware normally refers to pans and pots that are manufactured using electrochemical hardened aluminum material thus making them sturdy and durable.
Hard ionized cookware sets come in different styles and brands, thus giving you a wide variety of options to choose from during the purchase. Compared to conventional cookware, anodized offers a considerably longer lifespan in addition to being non-porous. This simply means that it has non-stick qualities, which makes it hard for food to stick even when burned or overcooked.
Main hard anodized cookware features
Before delving into the features of hard anodized cookware, it will be good to tackle the two questions above. One, what is anodized cookware?
The answer to this question is that there is no difference between anodized and hard anodized cookware. The two terms simply refer to the same electrochemical hardened aluminum cookware and can be used interchangeably.
This simply answers the second question which leads to the issue of quality which you should be able to select based on the brands and using different had anodized cookware reviews available.
Below are the common features offered by anodized cookware:
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Sturdy and lightweight
Since anodized cookware is made from hardened aluminum, the process makes them very strong while at the same time maintaining the light quality of the metal. They are therefore easy to use around the house without causing any weight-related complications.
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Non-stick qualities
Many quality brands available come with non-stick qualities, which means you can use them to cook even those foods that are considered sticky. Not all anodized pans and pots, however, have this non-stick quality, and it will require checking on ones that come with a surface shield that is chemically engineered.
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Proper heat distribution and retention
Aluminum is generally a good conductor of heat, and this quality is retained even in the anodized cookware. Quality cookware also has great resistance to heat and this means it can be used on almost all different types of heat sources including gas burners and electric griddles. Open flames are however unsuitable for the cookware.
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Easy to clean and maintain
Another obvious and amazing feature for hard anodized cookware is that it is easy to clean, and this is made possible by the fact that food does not stick. Additionally, the cooking surface is not very hot which makes it hard for spilled food to burn, thus making your surface cleaning easier.
For your convenience and satisfaction, we have put together a list of reviews and ratings of the best hard anodized cookware sets, that are already rated high for their incredible properties and performance.
For more info: What is Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware?
NOW, let’s take a close look at each one;
Cuisinart DSA-11 Dishwasher Safe Hard-Anodized 11-Piece Cookware Set Review
One of the best ways for new and experienced cooks to save time and energy in the kitchen is by using a non-stick set of pans that prevents hours of soaking and scrubbing after dinner.
The Cuisinart DSA-11 hard-anodized 11-piece cookware set is a wonderful way to get a highly valued cookware brand at a great price — and not have to worry about how long a pan needs to soak after the cooking is done. There are several distinct benefits to this extraordinary cookware set that will keep cooking fun and effortless for people of all skill levels.
The Industry’s Best Non-Stick Pans — Period
It features the cookware industry’s longest lasting non-stick coating, which goes above and beyond even the Teflon coating seen in many typical non-stick pans. In addition to its long life, the non-stick coating used in the cookware set is actually superior in durability as well. Many non-stick pans will chip their coating and become unusable if scraped by a metal utensil of any kind, but this cookware set retains the integrity of its nonstick coating with or without the use of metal utensils. That means you won’t have to pair a new set of pans with all-new utensils in the name of durability.
Supreme Durability and Heat Handling
The cookware set combines the durability of anodized cookware set with the superior quality of a heat-distributing film between the anodized outer layer and the non-stick inner cooking surface. That means there won’t be any unevenly cooked foods or foods that are burnt near the middle of the pan but virtually uncooked toward the outer edges. Using this heat distribution system, the cookware set can radiate heat outwards and up the side of the pans for a superior cooking experience.
It’s All About the Handles
Featuring tempered glass lids with wide-grip handles the Cuisinart DSA-11 hard-anodized 11-piece cookware set allows cooks to freely use their pans without worrying about hot lids — and hot lid handles — burning their hands in the process. Similarly, the cookware set features ergonomic heat-resistant handles on all of its pans that prevent burns and keep handles cool even when over a gas flame.
Final Thoughts
The Cuisinart DSA-11 hard-anodized 11-piece cookware set is the right mix of affordability and professional quality that amateur cooks will enjoy, and professional cooks will appreciate for its finer details. It’s dishwasher safe and built to last — indeed, this cookware set may be the last set you have to buy for your kitchen.
Another Cuisinart Set: Cuisinart 66-11 Chef’s Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized Review
Anolon 82676 Advanced Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Review
The Anolon advanced nonstick hard-anodized 12-Piece cookware set features six different sizes of pots and pans with matching lids that will make cooking easier and the final clean-up faster.
Awesome Design
Constructed of solid aluminum that hard-anodized for a safe and effective nonstick coating, these pans feature an attractive, dark charcoal gray finish that will compliment any kitchen. The high-polish stainless steel trim adds interest to the entire set, making it even more attractive in any kitchen.
There are three different saucepans in the cookware set. These include a 2 quart, 3 quarts, and 4 quarts; each with their own fitted glass lid. A 10-quart stockpot with lid is ideal for making soups while a small, 5 quarts covered sauté pan allows you to whip up any number of delicious dinners. Rounding out the collection in the cookware set are 8 inches and 10-inch skillets.
The handles feature SureGrip rivets and silicone covered stainless steel handles that are comfortable to grasp and will stay cool. The larger skillet and pans also feature a secondary smaller handle on the far side that makes it easy to lift a heavy pot and move it where you need it. Hot pads are not necessary thanks to the thick and comfortable silicone covering that is on all pots and pans as well as the lid handles. The Anolon advanced nonstick hard-anodized 12-Piece cookware set is designed with comfort in mind for every cook.
It also features domed glass lids that are break-resistant; allowing you to keep an eye on dinner without actually uncovering it. The lids will fit tightly to help keep nutrients and flavor in the food where you want and need them. These pans can be placed in the oven at temperatures up to 375 degrees F. The lids are also oven-safe, allowing you to start a meal on the stove and easily finish it in the oven.
Easy Cleaning
A limited lifetime warranty is available. To keep the pots and pans looking their best, these pots and pans should be hand washed.
Because the interior and exterior of the Anolon advanced nonstick hard-anodized 12-Piece cookware set are coated with DuPont’s high-quality Autograph non-stick finish, cleaning up is always a simple and easy process.
The straight sides create deep pots that are ideal for cooking a wide range of meals. The cookware set cooks food consistently, delivering heat evenly throughout the bottom of the pan. Hotspots are eliminated and the nonstick finish that is applied to both sides of the pans means that even foods that boil over are easily cleaned.
Conclusion
This set contains everything the cook needs to create delicious soufflés and delicious omelets at home. Whether your cooking focuses on basic, traditional meals or if you specialize in three-course medleys; the Anolon advanced nonstick hard-anodized 12-Piece cookware set has everything you need to cook the entire meal for your family.
Calphalon (Sa10H) Nonstick 10 Piece Cookware Set
Home cooks are always looking for a high-quality cookware set to make their lives easier in the kitchen.
The Simply Calphalon SA10H Hard-Anodized 10-Piece is an affordable, quality kitchen aid that makes cooking fun.
The set comes with ten pieces. It has a one-quart saucepan with a lid, a two-quart saucepan with a lid, a three-quart sauté pan with a cover, a stockpot with a cover, and two different skillets. The skillets are eight inches and ten inches across.
Convenient to use
There are several different features on this cooking set that make it a mainstay in the kitchen. The outside of the pans is hard-anodized, which means that the pieces are resistant to chips and cracks. The hard-anodized exterior also ensures that the pans heat quickly and evenly.
The inside of the Simply Calphalon SA10H Hard-Anodized 10-Piece is also optimized for home cooking. The pans have a two-layer nonstick surface that keeps food from sticking to the pans and burning. The nonstick surfaces also make the pans easy to clean.
Other features include the silicone handles on the covers; no matter how hot the pans get, you can safely remove the lids with the silicone handles. The lids are made out of tempered glass that is resistant to cracks and shatters.
One truly versatile feature of this cookware set is its ability to withstand high temperatures; it is oven safe to 400 degrees, allowing cooks to use them for many oven recipes. The ten-year warranty on the Simply Calphalon SA10H Hard-Anodized 10-Piece makes it a great investment.
Final Thoughts
People who use this cookware set say that the set is easy to use. It eliminates the need for cooking spray since food won’t stick to the interior of the pans. The only downside is that the cookware set cannot be washed in the dishwasher; putting it in the dishwasher will ruin the nonstick surface of the pans. However, the pans are so easy to wash that it doesn’t matter. Food can be wiped out of the pans very easily.
The Simply Calphalon SA10H Hard-Anodized 10-Piece is great cooking set for anyone who wants to be able to cook stress-free in their kitchen.
CIRCULON INFINITE HARD ANODIZED NONSTICK 10-PIECE COOKWARE SET
There are multiple brands of cookware on the market, which often makes it hard to decide which is best. The Circulon Infinite Hard Anodized Nonstick 10-piece Cookware Set is one of those cookware sets.
Circulon has been around for 25 years and the first to introduce hard anodized aluminum on the market. Hard anodized cookware has a longer life span than other aluminum pots and pans.
Although they are considered to be high-end cookware, the long life span makes them well worth the cost. This Circulon set has moved from the hands of the pros to the chef at home.
Innovative design
It is oven safe at 500 degrees and dishwasher safe. The cast stainless steel handles stay cool while stovetop cooking. This cookware is suitable for all types of stoves. They are resistant to corrosion or scratching, chipping and peeling.
The stainless steel base with aluminum surface distributes heat evenly and is non-toxic. This 10 piece set consists of 1-1/2 and 2-quart saucepans with lids, an 8-quart stockpot with lid, 3-quart saute’ pan with lid. Additionally, there is an 8 and 10-inch skillet without lids.
Review excerpts
“Must Have” cookware set. High quality and durable set. My food cooks evenly. I use less butter and oil because nonstick material is extraordinarily fabulous! The best set I have ever purchased. I rate this product 10 stars!!
The cookware itself works WONDERFULLY. No sticking, pretty easy to clean…quality you would expect to come from Circulon products, or at least I have after decades of being around them and using them. The trouble came when I cooked some spaghetti and went to pick the pot off the stove. HANDLE WAS HOT!
After reading multiple reviews, other customers raved about the Circulon Infinite Hard Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set. One customer added that the set received had dents, but it was sent back and replaced making everything satisfactory.
There was only one complaint about hot handles found. However, there was a sticking issue after 1 1/2 years of use due to the improper use of spray oils. The advice is to read the use, care instructions as well as the warranty before using the cookware.
Conclusion
The company has been rated well as being cooperative and offering replacements or refunds should a customer have an issue.
Although there are similar products on the market which appear to be less expensive. In most cases, they were not dishwasher or oven safe.
Rachael Ray Hard-Anodized Nonstick 14-Piece Cookware Set
The Rachael Ray Hard-Anodized Nonstick 14-Piece Cookware Set in orange is a beautifully crafted set of pots and pans. The set includes:
Three covered saucepans, one covered saucepot, one covered sauté pan, a covered stockpot, and two open skillets. No matter what you want to cook, you’re guaranteed the perfect pan to cook it in with this Cookware Set.
There are several factors that amateur chefs (re: home cooks) should take into consideration when buying a cooking set:
Durability
The Cookware Set can stand up to high heat, dropping and washing. There is no need to worry about dents or peeling non-stick coating with this set. Hard adonized steel gives the pans the ability to stand up to much more abuse than those made of stainless steel. With proper care, the non-stick coating will last for the life of the pans.
Versatility
With eight different pots and pans in the Cookware Set you always have the perfect size pan on hand. The smaller included pans are perfect when cooking for one and the skillets are perfect for everything from fried potatoes to French toast.
The large stockpot is excellent for chili, stews, and soups of all types. The lids from the pots fit the skillets; something you won’t find in other cookware sets.
Ease of Cleaning
With its non-stick coating, the Rachael Ray Hard-Anodized Nonstick 14-Piece Cookware Set makes cleaning a breeze. With a mild cleanser and a non-scratch dish towel, everything from burnt on pasta sauce to melted cheese washes off easily.
Price
The Cookware Set is reasonably priced. It’s rare to find the quality you’ll find in this Cookware Set at this price point.
With its stay-cool silicone handles and shatter-proof lids, the Rachael Ray Cookware Set in orange is an incredible value for the money. Food is released from the pans with little to no effort thanks to the non-stick coating and all of the pieces are oven-safe up to 400 degrees F.
This means you can cook casseroles in the same pans you cook your vegetables in. Talk about versatile! As with other non-stick pans, it is recommended that you only use silicone or wooden cooking utensils with the Rachael Ray Hard-Anodized Nonstick 14-Piece Cookware Set and that you hand wash the pieces rather than putting them in the dishwasher to prolong the life of the set.
Cuisinart GG-12 GreenGourmet Hard-Anodized 12-Piece Cookware Set
The Cuisinart GG-12 GreenGourmet Hard-Anodized 12-Piece Cookware Set is wonderful cookware set for people that are looking to buy an entire set of cookware at once.
It is a fabulous gift for a wedding, housewarming party, or graduation. This set has all the cookware needed to cook thousands of meals, saving people money over eating out as well as allowing them to customize their favorite dishes according to allergy or dietary needs.
Convenient to use
It contains three saucepans with lids. The 3-quart size is great for cooking large amounts of pasta, rice, or stews. It is large enough to contain a main dish that will feed the whole family. The 2 1/2 quart lidded pan is slightly smaller and is perfect for cooking vegetables or side dishes, while the 1 1/2 quart saucepan is great for cooking for one or two people. The eight-inch skillet is a great size for sauteing or making stir fry.
It also contains a 10-inch deep fry with a lid and a six-quart dutch oven with a lid and a removable steamer insert. The dutch oven is wonderful for roasting meats or baking casseroles.
The steamer insert can cook vegetables, small meats, and other items to perfection without losing many of their nutrients.
Benefits
One of the many benefits of the Cuisinart GG-12 GreenGourmet Hard-Anodized 12-Piece Cookware Set is the non-stick coating.
This coating is unique because it is ceramic-based and petroleum-free. The coating is applied to the pans at a temperature that is about 50 percent lower than the temperature that most non-stick pan coatings are applied at.
The coating on every piece of cookware in the Cookware Set doesn’t contain PFOA and PTFE, which are chemicals that are commonly used in non-stick pan coatings and have raised the concerns of health professionals.
One drawback of using this cookware set is that the pieces should be seasoned and hand-washed to protect their unique coating. No harsh abrasives may be used with the cookware because the coating may become damaged, causing food to stick to the pans.
Final Thoughts
This cookware set is great for beginning cooks and people that are conscious of the chemicals and fats they ingest. The non-stick surface is durable and easy to clean while allowing cooks to use little or no fat to keep their food from sticking to the pan.
T-fal E765SC Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick 12 Piece Cookware Set
When we first heard of the T-Fal hard anodized cookware, we have to admit, we were a bit skeptical. But to be fair, this was only because it bore the T-Fal name, a name which has been long trusted as a reputable name in cookware, but still tends to cover their pots and pans with a Teflon coating, which can quickly scratch and peel.
Quality Coating
We assumed that this cookware set would come with the same weak coating – but you shouldn’t make the same mistake!
T-Fal is one of the only lines of hard anodized cookware we’ve found that doesn’t use any type of coating on the interior of their hard anodized cookware.
This means that you can use whatever kind of utensil in it that you want, even metal, and that the pots will never chip, flake, or peel. This also means that this cookware is going to last you much longer than any other kind!
T-Fal is also one of the only manufacturers that has more than one line of hard anodized cookware, giving you even more options. You can buy the T-Fal Flexi-Grip hard anodized cookware, or the T-Fal Signature hard anodized cookware.
Set Includes
Both sets come with the same pots and pans which include: an 8 inch sauté pan; a 10 ¼ inch sauté pan; a 1 quart saucepan; a 2 quart saucepan; a 3 quart saucepan; a 5 quart Dutch oven; and 2 nylon utensils. It is important to note that you’ll only get a 5 quart Dutch oven, which is not actually a stockpot but rather, just a large pot that can hold soups, chili, and pasta.
Another thing that both of these sets have going for it is the fact that they are some of the cheapest pieces of hard anodized cookware that you could buy!
The only real weakness that these pots and pans have is that they are both only heat resistant up to 350 degrees.
And while this will work for most of the food that you want to cook, if you want to cook something at a high temperature in your oven, you unfortunately won’t be able to with this set.
Summery
But, we still think that both sets are so great and come at such a great value, that we don’t think having to transfer your food to a better oven-safe dish should be enough to stop you from getting either of these sets!
KitchenAid Gourmet Essentials Hard Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set
The KitchenAid Gourmet Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set is made up of six pots and pans with four glass lids. The set is an excellent buy for someone moving into their first home, especially if their kitchen is small.
For a person who does their own cooking, the five pots and pans will be used and used frequently. Therefore, they’ll need cookware that’s sturdy and long-lasting. It doesn’t hurt that the cookware is also good looking. The cook couldn’t be blamed for spending a bit more on racks on which to display them!
It consists of a 1.5 quart and a three-quart saucepan. These are good for soups, sauces, and vegetables.
It comes with an 8-quart stockpot, which is great for braising meats and making stews that need to be simmered for a long time on the stovetop.
It also has a three-quart sauté pan for quick and perfect sauteing of onions, garlic, and other aromatics. The eight and one-half inch and the ten-inch skillet are perfect for omelets, pancakes, and risottos.
Advanced design
The KitchenAid Gourmet Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set is made of hard-anodized aluminum, which means that the aluminum’s been treated with a coating of an aluminum oxide, which keeps the aluminum from coming into contact with what’s being cooked.
Bare aluminum can corrode and become dirty, and the dirt can get into the food.
This treatment also makes the surface of the cookware almost as hard as diamond and makes heating the food more even and efficient.
It has handles made of silicone with stainless steel. They have nonstick surfaces, and while not dishwasher safe, can be used on a stovetop that uses gas, solid plate, radiant rings ceramic and halogen to heat. They can be used in ovens up to 400 degrees F, so the cook will have to use other cookware if they wish to bake at higher temperatures. The color is a sleek, dark gray.
Summery
The KitchenAid Gourmet Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set comes with a one-year “hassle-free” warranty, which means that if an item is shown to be defective, KitchenAid will replace or refund it with no hassles. The Cookware Set also comes with a Lifetime Limited Warranty when the hassle-free warranty expires.
Reasons Why You Should Use Anodized Cookware
I really love my Hard Anodized Cookware Set by Rachael Ray. It is really awesome to use for cooking and it’s so easy to clean. The silicone handles are one of the features I really like the most. I have a bad habit of grabbing a pan without cooking gloves, so it is a huge help to prevent me from getting a heat injury.
This article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages when using hard anodized cookware and explain the benefits of using this kind of cooking tool.
When it comes to strong cookware, this is one of the best. They are safe to cook in both ovens and broilers which make this kind of cookware more functional than others. The set includes the most commonly preferred pan sizes to include a Dutch oven which is a handy cooking tool and also excellent for sautéing food.
Hard anodized cooking sets are constructed from aluminum which is an excellent metal for conducting heat. This makes food absorb heat quicker and cook more evenly. Some people are worried about aluminum having a reaction to acidic food because this can cause the aluminum to mix with the food.
To prevent this from occurring, the cookware undergoes a process that applies a protective coating on the aluminum cookware. This film is non-porous and nonreactive so they are much safer than common aluminum pans. Also, the process of anodization makes this cookware quite flexible.
This variety of cookware will not damage easily. You won’t have to be concerned about scratching, burning, or denting like other cookware.
The protective film makes it super easy to clean. The cookware is also non-stick and unlike commonly known non-stick cookware, they are safe for use with metal utensils. There is no need to be concerned about anything getting on your food.
There are some disadvantages to this variety of cookware. One is that they are not fit for the dishwasher and the handles tend to get very hot. The design by Rachel Ray is constructed with silicone handles to avoid this problem.
This kind of cookware is not made to be used with induction ranges and ovens. It is a custom stove that most professional chefs and cooks prefer because the heat source is created inside the pan instead of from the top of the stove.
If you have never tried hard anodized cookware before, then you are in for a real treat when you try it. It is really amazing to use and I regret waiting so long to finally use one. They are pretty affordable in comparison with other styles of cookware.
I think that most would agree that they are a whole lot better than using non-stick cookware. Be aware that there are many brands claiming to be anodized aluminum cookware. It is best to glance over some reviews before going to buy a set.
Related: 5 Different Essential Types of Cookware Needed for Your Daily Cooking
An Inside Look At Hard Andoized Cookware
The aluminum in hard anodized cookware goes through a unique process. Basically, it is put into a vat of acid and then given a series of electrical charges. This results in a type of “controlled” oxidation. As a result, aluminum oxide is created, a material that is more ironclad than traditional aluminum.
In any case, after it is dried and prepped, it is then formed into hard anodized cookware. In layman’s terms this refers to any cookware that is nonstick.
Of course, hard anodized cookware offers other benefits besides its nonstick ability. It is hard, and has a very long lifespan. Unlike other cookware, it will not rust or corrode. And its surface will always remain intact, regardless of how often it is used.
As far as its history, hard anodizing originally came about to create cookware for restaurants. Chefs needed pans that could withstand 8 hours or more of intense cooking. Nonstick cookware became the perfect solution.
Nonstick cookware continues to be popular, as nothing else offers the same ability. In terms of its chemical structure, hard anodized cookware is almost nonporous. As a result, foods have nothing to grab onto during the cooking process.
Yet, be aware that despite its fancy name, hard anodized aluminum is still made of aluminum. That element does not change, although the oxidation it goes through makes the aluminum more durable.
With traditional aluminum pans, there is a non-stick coating but since the aluminum is not oxidized, the surface will break down. Using a lot of oil helps minimize this breakdown, as oil keeps food from sticking.
However, at some point the cookware will break down anyway due to its age. And once one area starts chipping away, a chain reaction occurs. The process becomes worse because the cookware undergoes a new set of chemical reactions every time it is used.
Hard anodized cookware does not go through this cycle. However, it still carries the same advantages as traditional aluminum. For example, it has the ability to conduct heat evenly. This is important, as some pans create hotspots resulting in burned or uncooked food.
Now, in terms of bacteria, hard anodized cookware does not have the ability to destroy invading microbes. If the pan is not thoroughly washed, the leftover particles could attract all kinds of nasty organisms. With that said, hard anodized cookware should be washed after each use. It can be put in the dishwasher or cleaned by hand.
Finally, there is the issue of the possible health risks associated with hard anodized cookware. Some researchers believe there is a link between Alzheimer’s and the use of aluminum cookware. However, most of these studies focus on traditional cookware that has lost its nonstick coating.
This never occurs with hard anodized cookware because it goes through oxidation. And the oxidation itself poses no harms to humans. So, being that this type of cookware never chips, it is a much safer choice than traditional aluminum pans. Remember, it is the build-up of aluminum that may contribute to Alzheimer’s.
Hard anodized cookware never releases this aluminum. Granted, more studies will need to be done before the public can make any hard conclusions, but if you go by common sense, you are much safer with hard anodized cookware.
Also, Read:
Tips and Tricks to Keeping your Anodized Cookware Clean
When it comes to cleaning anodized cookware, most of the time it is very simple. After using your anodized cookware, most of the time you can simply clean it with just a damp cloth. You will rarely have to do more than that.
However, there are times when you will have to clean it more thoroughly, and there are some tricks you need to know when cleaning your anodized cookware.
One important thing to know is to never clean your anodized cookware in a dishwasher. Many dishwater detergents can damage the surface of the cookware, and will often void any warranty you may have gotten with it.
You should always wash your anodized cookware by hand. Hand washing produces the best result and will not damage the surface.
Hand washing is simple. You just need to use hot water, a dishcloth, and a recommended cleaner. We recommend using Ajax, Comet, or Dormond as a cleaner for when you clean your cookware.
When you finish cleaning, if your pan has any shiny or hazy spots, then that means there is still some residue on the surface and you should clean it again. When finished, the anodized cookware should have a matte finish and an even color tone.
