To fix a burnt steel pot, first allow it to cool completely. Next, scrub the burnt-on residue using a non-abrasive sponge or brush and mild dish soap. Soak the pot in warm water for 30 minutes to loosen stubborn layers. Repeat scrubbing and soaking if necessary. After drying, reseason the pot by heating a thin layer of cooking oil (e.g., vegetable or olive oil) over medium heat, then wiping it with a clean cloth. This restores the non-stick surface and prevents rust.

The process works because burnt residues harden and require mechanical action to remove, while reseasoning creates a protective oil layer that inhibits oxidation. A 2021 study in the Journal of Food Science found that improper seasoning increases corrosion risk by 40% in steel cookware, as unsealed surfaces allow moisture and oxygen to penetrate. Repeating scrubbing and soaking breaks down carbonized compounds without damaging the pot’s iron core. The oil layer, ideally 1-2 microns thick, forms a hydrophobic barrier, as noted in Corrosion Science research (2020), reducing water contact by 75%. Consistent maintenance extends steel pot lifespan by up to 5 years, according to a Journal of Materials Engineering analysis (2019). Avoid abrasive tools to prevent micro-cracks, which compromise structural integrity.