This Ice Cube Hack Can Actually Help Clean Greasy, Burnt Pans
Turns out the secret to cleaner pans is hiding in your freezer.
This viral hack isn't magic. But it can make scrubbing way less painful.
We've all been there — after a good cooking session, you're left staring at a greasy, blackened pan that looks like it's been through something. Whether it was fried chicken, or stir-fry gone rogue, now you've got burnt bits stuck like cement.
You could soak it. You could scrub till your arms go numb. Or, you could toss in a couple of ice cubes while the pan's still warm.
It's a real trick. Not a gimmick. And no, it won't destroy your cookware — if you follow a few simple rules.
Image via aydinynr (Canva Teams)
It works because of something called thermal shock
Here's the science: When cold ice hits a hot pan, the sudden temperature change causes a mini thermal shock. That shock makes the burnt-on grease and gunk contract and break away from the surface. Meanwhile, the ice melts, steam forms, and that steam helps loosen grime from the pan's nooks and crannies.
It's similar to what chefs do in pro kitchens when they deglaze a pan — usually with water or broth. This is the home version but with ice instead of liquid.
Image via Chef Samantha George
It doesn't work on every type of pan, though
Before you start experimenting with ice cubes on every pan in your kitchen, it's important to know which ones can handle the thermal shock. This method works best on stainless steel and uncoated aluminium pans. Cast iron can be used with caution, but rapid temperature changes might cause it to crack or warp over time.
Avoid using this hack on non-stick pans as the sudden cold can damage the surface and shorten its lifespan. Glass cookware is also a no-go, since it can crack under pressure.
So, if you're trying to rescue a burnt stainless steel pan, you're in the clear. But if it's your pricey non-stick pan? Probably best to stick with gentler methods.
Image via PhonlamaiPhoto (Canva Teams)
How to clean your pan with ice cubes — step by step
-
Leave a bit of oil or residue in the pan — it helps the steam form.
-
Heat the pan slightly if it's cooled down — it should be hot, but not dangerously so.
-
Drop in 1–2 ice cubes carefully — expect some sizzling and steam.
-
Use a wooden or silicone spatula to gently scrape away the residue.
-
Pour out the water and wipe the pan with a paper towel.
-
Wash as usual with mild soap and a soft sponge.
-
Optional: Add a pinch of salt for extra scrubbing power.
Just don't stand too close when the steam rises.
Still not convinced? Try these safer alternatives!
If the ice cube method feels a bit too experimental, here are other tried-and-tested cleaning options:
- Deglazing with hot water — Add water while the pan is still warm, then scrape.
- Baking soda paste — Apply, leave it to sit, then scrub gently.
- Vinegar soak — Great for lifting burnt food particles without much effort.
These might take longer, but they're safer for delicate pans.
Image via Africa Images (Canva Teams)
The bottom line: It works — but only for the right pan, at the right time
Yes, using ice can help break down burnt grease quickly — especially if your pan is stainless steel and still hot. But it's not a one-size-fits-all hack, and it's definitely not for coated or fragile cookware.
Use this trick wisely, and you might just save yourself a good 10 minutes of scrubbing.
