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Sometimes ceramic and glass baking dishes can be difficult to clean because of the baked-on food residue that adheres stubbornly to them. There are several things that can be done to make them easier to clean without damaging them. The main type of damage that can occur from incorrect cleaning techniques, such as the use of overly harsh abrasives, is scratching. Scratches can harm the appearance of ceramics and glass, but even if they are so small as to be difficult to notice, they can make it easier for foodstuffs to adhere and thus make cleaning even more difficult in the future. Often it is sufficient to let the dish soak in warm water for a while and then try scraping the residue off with a wooden spoon. Bamboo rice ladles such as are commonly used in Japan are also great for this purpose. In situations where some of the residue still remains, a small amount of baking soda can be used as a safe and effective abrasive. The amount of water should be kept sufficiently low so that the baking powder is a slightly moist paste but does not dissolve. A gradual darkening of the baking powder paste is evidence that it is doing its job. Additional abrasive power can be obtained by adding some table salt to the paste. Again, the moisture content should be kept sufficiently low that the salt crystals do not dissolve. Paper towels can be more effective with this paste, particular when salt is added. Dishcloths should, of course, not be used because they will likely become discolored and difficult to wash. In addition to baking dishes, these techniques are also useful for Pyrex pots that are designed for stove top use. Another technique for removing food that has become baked on to baking dishes is pour some cola into them and bring it to a boil in the oven. The heat and carbonation will work together to loosen the mess. Created September 30, 2006. |