Scratched pots: when to worry and how to protect them

Everyone has accidentally scratched a potat least once, perhaps using the wrong tool or while cleaning. An annoying event that can raise doubts and fears: do I have to replace it? Can harmful substances be released? Is it still safe to cook every day?

These are more than legitimate questions, since we are talking about tools that we use on a daily basis to prepare meals for ourselves and the people we love.

So let's see what to do, and some useful tips to minimize the risk of scratches.

What should you do if your pan is scratched?

A scratch on a pot deserves attention, especially when using the still very common Teflon (PTFE) pots: none of us would want to cook for ourselves and our children knowing that potentially toxic substances can end up in food.

But there is some good news. Compared to Teflon, our Ecoshield nonstick coating has proven from the very first tests that it does not release any type of material , even when scratched. This means that if a pan from the Smeralda Line gets scratched, you can continue to use it with confidence.

The only possible effect concerns the nonstick performance: a greater amount of material may accumulate in the area of the scratch, and food may start to stick.

How does the Ecoshield coating work?

We can imagine our nonstick coating as a net: Ecoshield is a glassy system that maintains excellent nonstick properties when the structure is intact and firm. If this "mesh" is scratched, food may start to stick in the damaged area.

In any case, we remind you that the Primecook Smeralda Line pots and pans are free of harmful substances such as PFAS and PTFE, and heavy metals like nickel—a choice designed for safer, more mindful cooking.

How to prevent accidental scratches on cookware

Here are our tips to best preserve the integrity of the coating and its non-stick properties:

• Use only nylon, silicone or wooden utensils
• Avoid using abrasive sponges
• Do not wash in the dishwasher
• Repeat the oiling phase every 3–4 months: with the help of paper towels, distribute a small amount of oil evenly over the entire surface, without rinsing afterward.

Taking care of your cookware is not only a matter of durability, but also of the quality of your daily preparations: small gestures and good habits can make a difference over time, ensuring safety, functionality and fun in the kitchen.

Got a question? Contact us!