For stuck-on food, soak the pan in warm soapy water for 15 to 20 minutes before wiping it away with a non-abrasive sponge. Always avoid steel wool or metal brushes.

When it comes to ceramic nonstick, you’re definitely looking at a bigger investment: A 10-inch PTFE-coated frying pan from All-Clad costs $59.99, while the same sized pan is $95 from Caraway and ...