My hubby used a cast iron skillet brush on my nonstick pan. The coating looks scratched off. Is it still safe to use? He thinks so but I disagree..Full article

### 🥄 My Hubby Used a Cast Iron Skillet Brush on My Nonstick Pan — Is It Still Safe to Use?

We’ve all had that moment in the kitchen when someone *means well*… but ends up doing something you’d never do yourself. In your case? Your husband used a **cast iron skillet brush** — likely stiff-bristled or metal — on your **nonstick pan**. Now the coating looks scratched, and you’re wondering if it’s still safe to cook with. 👀

He thinks it’s fine. You’re not so sure. So let’s break it down.

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## ⚠️ First: Is a Scratched Nonstick Pan Safe?

The short answer: **Probably not** — especially if the scratches are deep and the coating is peeling.

Here’s why:

* **Most nonstick pans use Teflon (PTFE)** or similar coatings to prevent food from sticking. While these are generally safe when intact and used properly, **damage to the surface compromises both safety and performance.**
* **Scratches can lead to flaking**, which means bits of coating could end up in your food.
* Exposed **underlying metal** (often aluminum) can react with acidic foods like tomatoes or vinegar, potentially altering taste and food safety.

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## 🧪 But Is It Toxic?

In older pans (pre-2013), there was concern over **PFOA**, a chemical used in making Teflon. However, PFOA was phased out, and **modern nonstick pans are PFOA-free**. That said, even without PFOA, heating a **damaged** nonstick pan at high temperatures could release fumes or **break down the coating into potentially harmful compounds**.