How to Care for Your Ceramic Coated Sauté Skillet

By Nordic Ware | Published: 2026-10-19

Category: How-to Guides

Keep your ceramic coated sauté skillet nonstick and scratch-free with these simple care steps. Learn the right cleaning methods, cooking tips, and storage tricks.

Quick answer

To keep your ceramic coated sauté skillet in top shape, hand wash it with mild soap and a soft sponge, avoid metal utensils, and never use cooking spray. Follow the steps below for daily care and long-lasting nonstick performance.

Why ceramic coating needs special care

Ceramic nonstick coatings are prized for their slick, PTFE-free surface, but they are more prone to scratching and thermal shock than traditional nonstick pans. A little extra attention during cleaning and cooking will keep your skillet looking new and performing well for years.

Common mistakes that shorten coating life

Using metal utensils, stacking pans without protection, and overheating an empty pan are the fastest ways to damage ceramic coating. Even one scrape can create a rough spot where food starts to stick. Dishwasher detergent is often too harsh and can dull the surface over time.

Daily care steps for your ceramic coated skillet

Cool before washing: Let the skillet cool completely on the stovetop or a trivet. Plunging a hot pan into cold water can warp the metal or crack the ceramic coating. Thermal shock is a common cause of coating failure. Always cool naturally.
Hand wash with mild soap and a soft sponge: Use warm water, a drop of mild dish soap, and a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth. Scrub gently in circular motions. Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, or harsh cleaners. Even one pass with an abrasive pad can leave micro-scratches that reduce nonstick performance.
Dry immediately and store with care: Dry the skillet with a soft towel right after washing. Stack pans only if you place a paper towel or pan protector between them to prevent the coating from rubbing against metal. Moisture left on the surface can cause spotting; stacking without protection causes scratches.
Use the right utensils and cooking spray: Cook with silicone, wood, or nylon utensils. Never use metal tongs or spatulas. Avoid aerosol cooking sprays — they contain lecithin and propellants that can bake onto ceramic and create a sticky residue. Use a little oil or butter instead. Aerosol sprays are the top cause of stubborn buildup on ceramic coatings.
Heat gently and avoid high heat: Preheat the skillet over medium or medium-low heat. Ceramic coatings can degrade above 500°F (260°C). If you need to sear, let the pan warm gradually for 2–3 minutes before adding oil. High heat is rarely needed — ceramic distributes heat evenly, so medium is usually enough.

Product spotlight

Basalt 2 Piece 12" Sauté Skillet with Lid | Ceramic Coated Cookware: This 2-piece set includes a 12-inch sauté skillet and lid with a ceramic nonstick coating. The generous size works well for one-pan meals like stir-fries or seared chicken, and the ceramic coating makes cleanup faster when you follow the care steps below.
Basalt 2 Piece 12" Sauté Skillet with Lid | Ceramic Coated Cookware