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What Is the Black Stuff on Pots and Pans — and How Do You Get It Off?

by Samantha Campbell in ALL THINGS KITCHEN

If you've ever pulled out a baking tray or pot and wondered, "What is this crusty black layer?" — you're not alone. This tough, burnt-on grime is one of the most common (and frustrating!) things we get asked about. So let’s break it down clearly and honestly.

What Is the Black Stuff?

The black, baked-on layer you see on your cookware is typically known as carbonized grease or carbonized food residue. It forms over time when oils, fats, and food particles are repeatedly exposed to high heat. This intense heat causes the particles to break down, harden, and bond to the surface.

It’s Made Up Of:

  • Polymerized oils (from cooking fats)

  • Charred or burnt food particles

  • Sticky residue from overheating

This tough combo results in a rock-hard, crusty layer that no regular soap or standard cleaner can touch.

Can SHYN Products Remove It?

Let’s be real — 99% of the time, SHYN products won’t remove this kind of buildup. While our range is fantastic for grease, grime, and surface cleaning, carbonized residue is a different beast.

But that doesn’t mean we can’t help at all. Here’s how SHYN products can assist in prepping or easing the cleaning process — and what to use when our products reach their limit.

How to Deal With It — Step by Step

✅ Step 1: Break Down Surface Grease

Before tackling the hard layer, remove any greasy top coat using:

  • SHYN Degreaser – Spray and let it sit for 5–10 minutes.

  • Wipe off with a microfibre cloth or magic eraser.

Note: This will not affect carbonized buildup but will prep the surface for deeper cleaning.

✅ Step 2: Soak If Possible

If you’re cleaning oven trays or racks, soak them in hot water mixed with:

  • SHYN Grime Lifter (diluted 1:10 in water)

  • Let it sit for 30 minutes to overnight

This helps with general grime and surface residue, but not the fully baked-on carbon.

When SHYN Isn’t Enough: What to Use Instead

For truly burnt-on mess, here are some alternatives:

  • Oven Cleaner (for metal trays — use gloves & ventilation)

  • Baking Soda + Vinegar Paste, left overnight

  • Bar Keeper’s Friend or CLR BBQ Cleaner

  • Boil vinegar and water in the pan to loosen buildup

  • Flat razor scraper (for stainless steel only – be cautious!)

What Not to Do

  • Don’t use steel wool or rough scrapers on non-stick or coated pans.

  • Don’t soak wooden handles.

  • Don’t mix chemical cleaners (like bleach with SHYN or anything else).

Final Word

We believe in being transparent with our community. SHYN products are exceptional for everyday cleaning, but they aren’t heavy-duty carbon removers — and that’s okay. Knowing the right tool for the job saves time, energy, and frustration.

If you're not sure what product to use for a particular cleaning challenge, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help make cleaning easy, honest, and effective.

Tags: knowledge pots product knowledge
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