How to Restore and Maintain Your Cookie Sheets: A Complete Guide

#### How to Do It:

1. Fill your sink with hot water and 1 cup of vinegar.
2. Add 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda.
3. Submerge the cookie sheet and soak for 30–60 minutes.
4. Scrub and rinse clean.

> ✅ **Best for:** Light to moderate stains and grease buildup.

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### 3. **Bar Keeper’s Friend or Bon Ami (For Stubborn Rust or Discoloration)**

If the sheet has rust spots or deep discoloration, use a **gentle abrasive cleanser** like Bar Keeper’s Friend.

#### How to Use:

1. Wet the cookie sheet.
2. Sprinkle the cleanser onto the surface.
3. Scrub with a sponge or scrub pad.
4. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

> ⚠️ **Note:** Avoid using steel wool, as it can scratch and damage the surface.

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## 🧽 Part 2: How to Maintain Your Cookie Sheets

Restoring is only half the job — keeping your cookie sheets clean and long-lasting is the key to saving money and baking better.

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### 1. **Always Line When Baking**

Use **parchment paper or silicone baking mats** to prevent sticking and reduce the chance of food burning onto the surface.

> ✅ Bonus: Easier cleanup every time!

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### 2. **Avoid Cooking Sprays on Nonstick Sheets**

Aerosol sprays can leave a sticky residue that’s hard to remove and may damage nonstick coatings. Instead, lightly grease with oil using a paper towel.

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### 3. **Hand Wash When Possible**

Even if the packaging says “dishwasher safe,” hand washing is gentler and extends the life of the sheet.

> 🧼 Use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge.

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### 4. **Dry Immediately After Washing**

Rust forms quickly when metal sits wet. Always **dry your sheets right after washing** — especially if they’re steel or aluminum.

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### 5. **Store Flat to Avoid Warping**

Stack sheets carefully in a cool, dry place. Avoid placing heavy items on top to prevent warping.

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## ⚠️ Bonus: What to Avoid

* ❌ **Steel wool or harsh abrasives** – These can scratch and ruin the finish.
* ❌ **High oven temperatures with empty pans** – This can warp the metal.
* ❌ **Soaking for too long** – Especially with nonstick pans, prolonged soaking can loosen coatings.

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## Final Thoughts

Cookie sheets don’t need to be replaced every time they look a little worn. With the right cleaning methods and consistent maintenance, you can **restore and protect your baking pans for years to come**.

So before you toss out that old cookie sheet, give it a little TLC — and get back to baking with confidence.

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