Restoring Color to Faded Cookware: Tips & Ideas

[kldiehl]

I had a customer ask me how to get the color back into cookware after it has faded from the dishwasher. Anyone have any ideas? I haven't had mine long so I really have not dealt with that problem. Thanks for any tips you might have.

 

[luvs2sellit]

Well, if it is the proffessional cookware she was not supposed to put in the dishwasher. It will get a cloudy dull look to it. The generation II should be fine in the dishwasher unless maybe she has hard water. Maybe a wash through the dishwasher with vinegar or that CLR cleaner. My director has the gen 2 cookware and has for years. She proudly tells everyone that she puts in the dishwasher and it still looks new.

 

[pamperedbecky]

I actually don't put either type of cookware in the dishwasher. But here are the instructions for the Gen. II cookware that I copied and pasted from the Use and Care off CC.

How to Clean [return to top]
For best results, wash the cooled pans and lids in hot soapy water to remove grease or food particles from the interior and exterior surface of the cookware. Do not use abrasive cleansers or scouring pads. A sponge or soft dishcloth will clean the surface thoroughly and safely. Thorough washing prevents staining caused by a build-up of food or grease residues which can burn when reheated.
To remove stubborn spots from the interior nonstick surface, use a non-abrasive pad. For best results, use only those products which clearly state “safe for cleaning nonstick surfaces.” A spotted white film, caused from hard water (minerals in water) or the starch in some foods, may form on the nonstick surface. This can be removed by rubbing the surface with a sponge that has been dipped in vinegar or lemon juice. Then wash, rinse, dry and recondition the nonstick surface with cooking oil.
To remove stubborn stains from the exterior porcelain enamel surface, rub the surface using a non-abrasive pad that has been dipped in a solution of equal parts of ammonia and water. Do not allow the pans to soak in the solution. Wash, rinse and dry before using.
The Generation II Cookware may be washed in an automatic dishwasher without damage to the nonstick surface. Like most fine cookware, hand washing is preferable, since the cumulative effect of strong agitation and dishwasher detergent can dull the exterior appearance. Follow your dishwasher manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

 

[kldiehl]

Thanks so much for your help. I will let her know those tips.

 

[BethCooks4U]

My DH put 2 of my professional pans in the dishwasher and when I called HO to ask how to get the color back from the gray look they now have. They not only said that there's nothing that will help but that the pans are no longer underthe lifetime warranty once they've been in the dishwasher . It clearly states in the use and care that we are not put put them in the dishwasher. Be sure to tell everyone who purchases them about that!

Another thing: The warranty is also nullilfied if they use metal utensils on them per HO.