Your Non-Stick Isn’t Working? Here’s Why (And How to Fix It)

You often blame the phone when your phone’s battery drains faster than it used to. Until you realise that it’s all those background apps you have been running.

Did you, in the recent past, feel that your non-stick cookware was failing you? Well, non-stick cookware works a bit similarly. Not a great analogy. But hear us out. One day, your non-stick cookware is flipping crepes like a dream, the next it’s holding onto your scrambled eggs for dear life. You have to lift the non-stick pan and scrape the egg really hard to get the burnt food cleaned. It’s not like the magic of your non-stick cookware vanished overnight. It’s usually wearing down quietly while you have been cooking up shepherd’s pie fillings, curry bases, and late-night cheese toasties. 

Good news? You can troubleshoot these issues. And you can also keep it from happening again.

There’s a common belief that non-stick cookware should work flawlessly forever, no matter how it’s treated. The truth is, non-stick coatings are incredibly effective, but they're also sensitive. 

Let’s look at the main culprits behind why your non-stick isn’t working.

1. Overheating: This is the number one offender. Putting an empty non-stick pan on a high hob and walking away is a recipe for disaster. The non-stick coating can be damaged by excessive heat, causing it to break down and lose its effectiveness. For the best results with your non-stick cookware, like the Vinod Zest Non-Stick Kadai, a medium heat is all you'll ever need.

2. Abrasive Utensils: That metal spatula might be great for scraping a cast-iron skillet, but it's a non-stick pan's worst enemy. Scratches are like tiny tears in the coating, allowing food to get a grip and stick. Always use a silicone or wooden spatula to protect the non-stick surface.

3. Incorrect Cleaning: Avoid reaching for a steel wool pad after a particularly messy meal. Harsh scrubbers and abrasive cleaners can wear away the non-stick layer. 

4. Burnt Food Buildup: Over time, tiny particles of burnt food can accumulate on the surface, creating a rough texture. Pans often lose their non-stick properties due to a buildup of burnt food that is not always visible. 

5. Natural Wear and Tear: Even the most durable cookware has a lifespan. With consistent use, the non-stick coating will eventually degrade. Investing in quality, long-lasting cookware like Vinod Cookware’s Non-Stick Cookware range can significantly extend this period. If you want even more durable cookware, try our HANOS range of cookware. Made from thick, hard-anodised aluminium, they feature a high-performance non-stick coating designed to last up to five times longer than standard non-stick cookware.

How to Fix and Maintain Your Non-Stick Cookware

Deep Clean Gently: Make a paste with bicarbonate of soda and water. Use a soft sponge to massage it over the surface, lifting stubborn residue without scratching.

Light Seasoning: Rub a thin layer of vegetable oil over the pan, heat gently for a few minutes, then wipe off the excess. This fills microscopic pores and smooths the surface.

Quality non-stick pans, like Vinod Cookware’s Non-Stick range, can last for years if you treat them right. Build these habits into your routine:

Preheat slowly before adding food.

Use a little fat (oil, butter, or spray) for flavour and protection.

Hand wash with warm soapy water and a soft sponge — no shortcuts with steel scourers.

Dry completely to avoid residue or water spots.

Store with a tea towel or pan protector between stacked pans works wonders.

By understanding what actually causes sticking and making a few simple changes, you can keep your non-stick pots and pans performing beautifully, save money, and enjoy cooking without the dreaded scrape-and-swear clean-up.

And if you’re ready to invest in cookware that’s designed to last when cared for properly, Vinod Cookware’s Non-Stick range is a great place to start.