5 Reasons Why Your Baking Trays Are in Bad Shape—and Tips to Maintain Them for Lifelong Use

If your baking trays look worn out, you’re not the only one. Many of us own trays that are crusty and stained from years of joyful baking. Surprisingly, this isn’t entirely a bad thing! Clara Krueger, a baking expert from King Arthur Baking Company, explains that baking sheets naturally develop a patina over time. “You don’t need to scrub this away,” she notes. “It actually enhances the pan’s non-stick properties, similar to seasoning a cast-iron skillet.” So, you can relax a bit when it comes to cleaning! 

That said, you don’t want your new baking trays to look battered after just a few uses. Proper care is still essential! Krueger highlights the most frequent mistakes people make with their baking trays and offers practical advice to keep them in top condition. 

You’re Cleaning Them too Aggressively

Krueger advises against overly aggressive cleaning, as it can do more harm than good. “Many home bakers are overly zealous about keeping their baking sheets pristine,” she explains. “Using harsh scrub pads or cleaners on pans with a non-stick coating can ruin the surface.” (Additionally, avoid using sharp metal utensils, like steel forks, to prevent scratches.)

Her cleaning method is straightforward: Wash the pans thoroughly with dish soap, hot water, and a soft sponge to remove grease. This simple routine is gentle on the pans and prevents stubborn residue from accumulating.

You’re Not Using Baking Sheet Liners

Using liners can prevent stains on your baking sheets and keep them in top condition, so it’s a good idea to always have some available. They also help baked goods, like macarons, release easily and simplify the cleaning process—sometimes eliminating the need for scrubbing altogether.

Parchment paper liners are the simplest choice, but silicone liners are eco-friendly and reusable. However, Krueger points out that silicone liners can retain grease. “They can be a bit tedious to clean,” she mentions. “I often need to wash mine twice after baking anything oily.” If you prefer convenience, this is something to keep in mind. 

Your Baking Sheet Liners Are Too Small

Sticking with the topic of baking sheet liners—choosing the wrong size can cause issues. If the liner is too small, your baked goods may stick to the pan’s edges, which are trickier to clean due to their shape. 

You Grease Your Sheets With Butter

Here’s a surprising tip: Using butter to grease your baking sheets might be causing more harm than good. Butter has a lower smoke point than other fats and oils, which can lead to burning and leave behind a charred residue. Krueger recommends alternatives like vegetable oil, vegetable shortening, or baking spray. 

You Rinse Your Hot Pans in Cold Water

If you’re in a hurry after baking and start washing a warm pan, avoid using cold water. This can cause warping due to uneven heating, making the metal expand and contract, which leads to buckling. It’s better to wait and let the pan cool completely before washing.

Warping can also occur if you place a cold sheet directly into a hot oven. To avoid this, preheat the pan in the oven briefly or run hot water over it first. High-quality, thick baking sheets are less likely to warp, so consider upgrading if your current ones are uneven. (Warped pans can result in uneven cooking!)