I have a enamel 6 quart Dutch oven that gets used a lot indoors. It’s been a great pot, but periodically needs a good cleaning. I tried several methods to clean, but found using a small amount of bleach and filling it will wArm tap water and letting it sit overnight works the best in removing stains on the bottom of the inside. I’m satisfied with the outcome. However, the shiny finish has dulled over time, especially where the direct heat is. Does anybody know of a way to restore this without getting it re-glazed
Enameled cookware wears over time. It gets thinner, chips, etc. It has a limited life. Get some cast iron.
It’s. Cast. With enamel finish. But. The inside bottom. Feels. Dull. Not shiny anymore. Due to heat. I assume
Sometimes mineral deposits are present on surfaces which lock in stains and make surfaces look dull. Starting with a clean pot, try pouring in a half inch or so of white vinegar and let it soak overnight. Use a scrub brush or similar a couple of times throughout the soaking. Then drain and wash it out. That should leave it as clean as possible. You can always let it sit for longer or do it a second time. Make sure you dont use things that are too abrasive like a stainless steel chore boy. Let me know if you try it. Thanks.
Metal utensils will scratch the surface as well and dull the finish. Not using it at all is really the only way to keep it pristine, and that would defeat the purpose of having it in the first place. Soaking is one of the best and gentlest methods to clean, I scrub with a non abrasive sponge and a paste of baking soda afterwards and works well for me.
<<Soaking is one of the best and gentlest methods to clean>> If you have good seasoning this is a great way to clean, especially bacon residue. Don't accidentally forget it overnight unless you do. They make credit card like scraper/cleaners. 30 minutes of soaking and one of these will get most of mine clean. If DW has really made a mess, soak then use chain mail wrapped around a sponge. ************************************************************* Sorry, got 700 miles on me in the last couple days and a rough morning. Not as young as I used to be. This has to do with enamel coated not plain CI
Ok finally tried soaking overnight with vinegar. Didn’t really change the bottom finish , it’s definitely clean, Just not as shiny as the Sides with the original enamel finish
Thanks for the feedback. At least you have a good baseline of what the actual finish is. Beyond that, I don't think you can improve it without actually going through polishing grits. But, I bet it looks great when it's full of food! ; )
