Care & Use Guide
Keep your Our Place cookware performing beautifully for years. Learn the essential care rules for the Always Pan and Perfect Pot: from proper heat settings to deep cleaning techniques.
Our Place cookware is designed with premium Thermakind™ ceramic nonstick coating that's built to last. However, like all high-quality cookware, proper care and maintenance will ensure optimal performance and longevity. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how to cook with, clean, and maintain your Our Place Always Pan 2.0, Perfect Pot, and other cookware pieces.
Whether you're a seasoned home chef or just starting your culinary journey, following these care guidelines will keep your cookware looking pristine and performing at its best for years to come.
The "Low & Slow" Rule
Understanding why low to medium heat is essential for ceramic cookware
Why Low Heat Matters
Our Place cookware features Thermakind™ ceramic nonstick coating, which is designed to distribute heat evenly and efficiently. Unlike traditional nonstick pans that can handle high heat, ceramic coatings are optimized for low to medium temperatures.
- Ceramic coating heats up quickly and retains heat exceptionally well
- High heat can cause food to stick and damage the nonstick surface
- Medium-low heat prevents thermal shock and extends pan longevity
- Lower temperatures preserve the non-toxic properties of the coating
Proper Heat Settings
For Most Cooking (Recommended)
Use low to medium heat (settings 3-5 out of 10 on most stovetops)
For Searing
Medium heat (setting 5-6 out of 10) is sufficient for achieving a perfect sear
For Simmering
Low heat (settings 2-3 out of 10) maintains gentle bubbles without scorching
For Boiling Water
Medium heat is all you need; high heat doesn't boil water faster
Important: Always Preheat on Low
When preheating your Our Place cookware, start on low heat for 1-2 minutes before adding oil or food. This allows the ceramic surface to heat evenly and prevents thermal shock. Never preheat an empty pan on high heat, as this can permanently damage the nonstick coating and reduce its effectiveness.
Cleaning 101
Why hand-washing keeps your Our Place cookware in pristine condition
Hand-Washing vs. Dishwasher: The Truth
While Our Place cookware is technically dishwasher-safe, we strongly recommend hand-washing for optimal longevity and performance. Here's why hand-washing is superior, even when the manufacturer says dishwasher use is acceptable.
Benefits of Hand-Washing
- •Preserves the Thermakind™ ceramic coating for years
- •Prevents harsh detergent buildup that can affect nonstick properties
- •Avoids high heat and pressure that can degrade the coating
- •Maintains the beautiful exterior finish and colors
- •Allows gentle cleaning that's safer for the pan's construction
Dishwasher Drawbacks
- •High temperatures can gradually weaken ceramic bonds
- •Harsh alkaline detergents may dull the nonstick surface over time
- •Water jets can cause pans to bang against other items
- •Extended exposure to moisture can affect wooden handles and accessories
- •May cause discoloration or spotting on exterior surfaces
Step-by-Step Hand-Washing Guide
Daily Cleaning (After Each Use)
- 1
Let it Cool
Allow the pan to cool to room temperature before washing. Never rinse a hot pan with cold water as thermal shock can damage the coating.
- 2
Use Warm Water
Fill with warm (not hot) water and add a small amount of mild dish soap.
- 3
Gentle Scrubbing
Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently clean the surface. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, steel wool, or harsh scouring pads.
- 4
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with clean warm water to remove all soap residue.
- 5
Dry Completely
Dry with a soft towel immediately. Don't air dry as water spots may form.
For Stubborn Residue
- 1
Soak First
Fill the pan with warm water and let it soak for 10-15 minutes to loosen stuck-on food.
- 2
Gentle Boil Method
For tough residue, add water and a drop of dish soap, bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, then wash as normal.
- 3
Use Baking Soda
Make a paste with baking soda and water, apply to problem areas, let sit for 15 minutes, then gently scrub. (See Restoration section below for details)
- 4
Never Use Metal
Avoid metal utensils or abrasive cleaners. Stick with soft sponges, cloths, or nylon brushes only.
Oils & Fats Guide
Choosing the right oils for ceramic nonstick cookware performance
The type of oil you use can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your Our Place cookware's Thermakind™ ceramic nonstick coating. Using the right oils will enhance the nonstick properties, while certain oils can create buildup that reduces performance over time.
Recommended Oils & Fats
High Smoke Point Oils (Best)
- ✓
Avocado Oil (520°F)
Ideal for all cooking methods, neutral flavor, extremely stable
- ✓
Refined Olive Oil (465°F)
Great for sautéing and general cooking
- ✓
Grapeseed Oil (420°F)
Light flavor, excellent for high-heat cooking
Medium Smoke Point Oils (Good)
- ✓
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (375°F)
Perfect for low-medium heat cooking
- ✓
Coconut Oil (350°F)
Adds subtle flavor, good for gentle cooking
- ✓
Butter (350°F)
Excellent flavor, watch for browning
Oils & Fats to Avoid
Never Use These
- ✗
Aerosol Cooking Sprays (PAM, etc.)
Contains propellants that create sticky buildup and damage ceramic coating
- ✗
Aerosol Olive Oil Sprays
Same issue as regular sprays—propellants ruin nonstick surfaces
Use with Caution
- ⚠
Flaxseed Oil (225°F)
Very low smoke point, can polymerize on surface
- ⚠
Sesame Oil (350°F)
Can leave residue; use sparingly for flavor
Why Aerosol Sprays Are Harmful:
Aerosol cooking sprays contain additives like lecithin, dimethyl silicone, and propellants that create an invisible sticky film on ceramic surfaces. This buildup is nearly impossible to remove and will permanently damage the nonstick properties of your Our Place cookware.
Pro Tips for Using Oils
Amount Matters
You need very little oil with Our Place cookware—about 1-2 teaspoons is sufficient for most dishes. The ceramic nonstick surface works best with a thin, even coating of oil.
Timing is Key
Always add oil after preheating the pan on low for 1-2 minutes. Adding oil to a cold pan can cause uneven heating and sticking. Let the oil heat for 30 seconds before adding food.
DIY Oil Spray
If you prefer spray application, invest in a manual pump spray bottle and fill it with your favorite cooking oil. This gives you the convenience of spray without the harmful propellants.
Restoration & Deep Cleaning
Bring your cookware back to life with these deep cleaning techniques
Even with proper care, you may occasionally notice that food starts sticking or the pan doesn't perform as well as it used to. This is often due to buildup of oils, fats, or food particles that have bonded to the ceramic surface. The good news: you can restore your Our Place cookware to near-new condition with simple household ingredients.
The Baking Soda Method (Most Effective)
What You'll Need:
- Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
- Warm water
- Soft sponge or cloth
- White vinegar (optional for tough stains)
Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Process:
- 1
Create a Paste
Mix 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda with just enough water to form a thick paste (similar to toothpaste consistency).
- 2
Apply Generously
Spread the paste evenly across the entire cooking surface, focusing extra attention on areas with visible staining or buildup.
- 3
Let It Work
Allow the paste to sit for 15-30 minutes. For stubborn buildup, you can leave it for up to 1 hour. The baking soda will break down oils and lift residue.
- 4
Gentle Scrubbing
Using a soft sponge or cloth, gently scrub the surface in circular motions. You should see the buildup coming off. Never use abrasive scrubbers.
- 5
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the pan completely with warm water, ensuring all baking soda residue is removed. Any remaining powder can affect performance.
- 6
Dry & Season
Dry the pan completely with a soft towel. For extra protection, lightly coat the surface with a small amount of oil and wipe away excess.
Pro Tip: The Vinegar Boost
For extra-stubborn stains or discoloration, after applying the baking soda paste, spray or drizzle a small amount of white vinegar over it. The fizzing reaction (acid + base) creates a powerful yet safe cleaning action that lifts even the most persistent residue. Let it fizz for 5 minutes, then proceed with scrubbing.
The Boiling Water Method
For quick maintenance cleaning or light buildup removal:
- 1.Fill pan with water and add 1/4 cup baking soda
- 2.Bring to a gentle boil for 3-5 minutes
- 3.Let cool, discard water, and wash normally
- 4.Dry thoroughly and apply light oil coating
When to Deep Clean
Perform a deep cleaning with baking soda when you notice:
- •Food beginning to stick when it previously didn't
- •Discoloration or dark spots on the cooking surface
- •Visible buildup or residue that won't wash off normally
- •After cooking particularly greasy or sticky foods
- •As routine maintenance every 2-3 months
Additional Care Tips
Storage
Store your Our Place cookware in a dry location. If stacking, place a soft cloth or pan protector between pieces to prevent scratching. The included silicone trivet works perfectly for this purpose.
Utensils
Use silicone, wooden, or nylon utensils only. Avoid metal utensils as they can scratch the ceramic coating. The included beechwood spatula is ideal for all your cooking needs.
Avoid Thermal Shock
Never place a hot pan under cold water or on a cold surface. Always allow cookware to cool naturally to room temperature. Sudden temperature changes can damage the ceramic coating.
Handle with Care
While durable, ceramic coatings can chip if dropped or banged against hard surfaces. Lift cookware rather than sliding it across stovetops or counters.
Oven Safety
Our Place cookware is oven-safe up to 450°F (232°C). Always use oven mitts when handling hot cookware, as handles will become extremely hot in the oven.
Regular Maintenance
Perform a baking soda deep clean every 2-3 months, even if the pan seems fine. Preventative maintenance keeps your cookware performing optimally for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I deep clean my Our Place cookware?
For regular home use, deep clean with baking soda every 2-3 months as preventative maintenance. If you notice sticking or buildup, clean immediately regardless of timing.
Can I use metal utensils with my Always Pan?
We strongly recommend against metal utensils. While the Thermakind™ ceramic coating is durable, metal can create micro-scratches that accumulate over time and reduce nonstick performance. Stick with silicone, wooden, or nylon utensils.
Why is food sticking even though it's supposed to be nonstick?
Food sticking is usually caused by: (1) cooking on too high heat, (2) not using enough oil, (3) buildup from aerosol sprays or oil residue, or (4) not preheating properly. Try a baking soda deep clean and follow the "low & slow" rule.
Is it safe to put my Our Place cookware in the dishwasher?
While technically dishwasher-safe, we recommend hand-washing to maximize the lifespan of the ceramic coating. Dishwasher detergents and high heat can gradually degrade the nonstick properties.
What temperature should I use for cooking?
Low to medium heat (3-5 out of 10) is ideal for most cooking. The ceramic coating heats quickly and evenly, so you don't need high heat. Even for searing, medium heat (5-6) is sufficient.
How long will my Our Place cookware last?
With proper care following this guide, Our Place cookware can last 5-10+ years with excellent nonstick performance. The key factors are using low-medium heat, avoiding aerosol sprays, hand-washing, and regular deep cleaning.
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