Storage Options To Protect Crepe Pan Surfaces (Explained)
A crepe pan is a vital piece of cookware for making delicious, thin pancakes at home. With its large, flat cooking surface and low sides, a crepe pan allows you to easily lift and flip the delicate crepes.
However, the versatility of a crepe pan comes at a price – its surface is more vulnerable to scratches, discoloration, and other damage compared to regular frying pans. Improper storage can lead to a scratched or rusted surface which impacts heat conduction and makes flipping crepes a real challenge.
So if you want your crepe pan to maintain that smooth, non-stick surface for years to come, proper storage is a must. Read on as we discuss various storage options to keep your crepe pan protected.
Hanging Storage Options
Hanging storage is great for keeping pans accessible while saving cabinet or countertop space in the kitchen. Here are some excellent hanging storage ideas for your crepe pan:
Wall-Mounted Pan Racks
Wall-mounted pan racks are likely the most popular hanging storage option for pans. Sturdy metal racks can be installed on walls or the inside of cabinet doors to neatly store everything from skillets to saucepans.
When choosing a pan rack, opt for one with padded hooks to prevent scratches. Also ensure hooks are widely spaced – around 3 inches apart – to support the broad surface of a crepe pan.
Hanging Pot Racks
Hanging pot racks (also called ceiling pot racks) offer open shelving to creatively display various cookware above islands or countertops. The rack’s height keeps pans safely out of reach from kids and pets while adding a decorative focal point.
When suspending a crepe pan, use the handles to keep the cooking surface elevated. This protects the pan’s flat bottom from scratches. You can also hang a crepe pan sideways with hooks supporting each handle.
Magnetic Strips
Self-adhesive magnetic strips transform walls, cabinets, and refrigerators into instant storage for pans. The powerful magnets securely hold pans in place.
When mounting magnetic strips, position them far enough apart to support the entire base of a crepe pan. To prevent scratches, attach felt or soft rubber bumpers to points where the pan rests against the wall.
Vertical Storage Solutions
Storing pans vertically takes up minimal footprint while neatly displaying cookware. Here are some great vertical storage ideas for crepe pans:
Pan Organizers
Vertical pan organizers feature stacked slots or cascading steps to store pans upright like files. Felt-lined organizers prevent scratches and protect coating.
When using pan organizers, take measurements to ensure the slots accommodate the thickness of your crepe pan. Angle the pan slightly to use the handles as “file tabs” for easy identification.
Cabinet Pan Storage
Installing vertical dividers in a cabinet creates custom nooks for storing pans and lids. Opt for spring-loaded dividers that automatically adjust to hold pans of different sizes securely.
Angle a crepe pan diagonally or sideways to utilize the vertical space. Place pads on dividers to prevent abrasions from metal edges.
Drawer Pan Organizers
Specialty pan organizer inserts allow you to transform a drawer into customized storage for pans, lids, and baking sheets. The non-slip lining keeps pans in place.
For a crepe pan, choose a deep, wide drawer and an insert with padded slots wide and long enough to accommodate the pan diagonally or vertically. Elevating on its side prevents scratches to the cooking surface.
Protective Accessories
Certain handy accessories specially designed for pan storage help protect crepe pans when not in use:
Pan Protectors
Cushioned fabric pan protectors slip over pans to guard the cooking surface against dents and scratches. Quilted protectors with drawstring tops are ideal for large-surface crepe pans.
Silicone Handles
Silicone pan handles are stretchy sleeves that slide over metal handles to provide a soft, protective grip. Handles come in various sizes to fit crepe pans and other cookware.
Pan Lid Covers
Terry cloth lid covers fit over pan lids to prevent scratches if stacked. The elastic hem ensures a secure, custom fit for any pan and lid pair.
Proper Placement In Cabinets
If storing a crepe pan inside a cabinet, take care to position it appropriately to prevent damage:
Use Deep Cabinets
Choose a deep, spacious cabinet with ample vertical clearance to accommodate the crepe pan’s flat profile. This avoids resting other items on top that could dent the surface.
Add Pads Below And Above
Line the bottom of the cabinet with non-slip shelf liner or foam pads. Place felt rounds above and below the pan as buffers to prevent scratches.
Stand Vertically Against Wall
Store the crepe pan vertically, balanced on its edge against the cabinet wall. Face the cooking surface inwards so the handles brace against the wall.
Invest In Organizers
Consider cabinet organizers like:
- Slotted racks that cradle pans vertically
- Hanging racks to suspend pans by handles
- Anti-slip mats to prevent sliding and scratches
Storing Crepe Pans Long Term
For long term storage, special care is needed to prevent crepe pans from damage, rust, or accidental use:
Use Protective Bags
Pack the crepe pan inside a breathable pan storage bag. Cotton drawstring bags protect surfaces while allowing air circulation to prevent moisture.
Choose Cool, Dry Location
Find a location that’s cool, dry, and away from heat and humidity to hinder rust formation. Ideal spots are bedroom closets or low-traffic cabinets.
Use Desiccant Packs
Place desiccant moisture absorber packs inside the storage bag to actively prevent condensation and moisture damage during storage.
Avoid Kitchen Storage
Don’t store the crepe pan in the kitchen long term. The high humidity and frequent use of surrounding space makes damage likely over time.
Label Clearly
Attach a tag or label clearly marking the bag’s contents and the date of storage. This makes locating and rotating stored items easier.
Maintenance: Caring For Crepe Pans
Proper maintenance is equally crucial as appropriate storage to extend your crepe pan’s lifespan. Follow these tips:
Hand Wash & Dry Properly
Always hand wash crepe pans instead of harsh dishwasher detergents. Use a soft sponge or cloth with mild soap. Fully dry immediately with a towel – don’t air dry.
Apply Thin Oil Coating
Apply a thin layer of oil to the warm crepe pan after washing and drying. This seasoning protects the surface between uses.
Use Non-Corrosive Racks
Ensure dish racks and drain boards are made of non-corrosive materials like stainless steel. Prolonged exposure to moisture can damage crepe pans.
Inspect Frequently
Periodically inspect crepe pans for any scratches, damages, or signs of rust formation. Address issues promptly to avoid exacerbation.
Avoid Metal Utensils
Never use sharp metal utensils when cooking in a crepe pan. Always opt for heat-resistant silicone, wood, or plastic utensils instead.
Troubleshooting Common Crepe Pan Storage Issues
Review solutions to frequent crepe pan storage problems below:
Issue: Rust formation on the crepe pan’s surface
Solution: Rust indicates moisture exposure during storage. Review storage location – choose a cooler, drier spot. Prevent condensation by storing with desiccant packs. Remove minor rust with non-abrasive cleaners or apply rust converter coating for stubborn spots.
Issue: White residue deposited on crepe pan
Solution: Hard water leaves mineral residue after washing. To prevent deposits, wipe pan surface dry immediately after hand washing instead of air drying. Remove existing residue with distilled white vinegar.
Issue: Brown staining on crepe pan cooking surface
Solution: Brown stains occur when oil residue burns onto the hot surface. To avoid staining, ensure you fully wash and dry the pan after oiling during seasoning. If stained, boil water with cream of tartar and baking soda to lift stains before washing as usual.
Issue: Small dents and scratches on the bottom of crepe pan
Solution: Dents and scratches happen when the crepe pan’s delicate surface gets compressed against a hard surface or abrasive material during storage. Always place protective padding made of felt, linen, or foam below the pan. Use a pan protector bag for storage.
Issue: Tiny holes and pitting on the crepe pan cooking surface
Solution: Pitting comes from chemical damage, often due to overly corrosive dish soaps. Avoid this by only hand washing with mild detergent and soft cloth. For minor pitting, sand smooth using fine grit sandpaper. Replace severely pitted pans.
Issue: Dark streaks or sticky residue on surface
Solution: This occurs when storing the crepe pan before ensuring it’s fully dry after washing. Always thoroughly dry immediately with a towel instead of air drying. Remove residue by boiling water with cream of tartar and re-seasoning with oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to store crepe pans long term?
For long term storage, pack crepe pans inside breathable cotton storage bags along with desiccant moisture absorber packs. Store in a cool, dry place like a bedroom closet to prevent rust formation or damage over time.
How to store crepe pans without taking up too much space?
Opt for space-saving vertical storage solutions like wall-mounted pan racks, vertical cabinet dividers, or pan organizer inserts inside drawers. Hang crepe pans sideways or store them vertically balanced on their edges.
What should I line crepe pan storage racks or drawers with to prevent scratches?
Choose soft, non-slip materials like felt, linen, microfiber or foam to line any surface supporting a crepe pan. These cushion the delicate cooking surface to prevent scratches, scuffs and dents during storage.
How often should I re-season a crepe pan when stored for long periods?
Re-season stored crepe pans with a thin oil coating at least every 2-3 months. This refreshes the protective finish to prevent surface rust or tacky residues from developing inside storage bags or cabinets over time.
What’s the best temperature to store crepe pans long term?
Ideally, store crepe pans long term in a cool, dry spot with temperatures between 50-70°F to prevent rust-inducing condensation. Avoid hot spots like appliances or pipes. Kitchens and garages also tend to be too humid for extended crepe pan storage.
What should I do if my crepe pan already has rust on its surface?
For minor surface rust, use a non-abrasive rust removal product safe for cookware. Apply rust converter to transform stubborn rust into an inert protective coating. Avoid using steel wool or wire brushes as they further damage the surface. Replace extensively rusted pans.
How do I clean hard water stains off my crepe pan surface?
Fill the stained crepe pan with water and add a tablespoon of cream of tartar (or lemon juice or vinegar). Bring the mixture to a boil for 10 minutes, then wash pan as usual with mild detergent. This helps lift mineral hard water deposits.
What type of pan organizers should I use to store crepe pans?
Choose pan organizers with wide, cushioned slots lined with felt or soft linen. The slots should be spaced at least 3 inches apart to accommodate the broad cooking surface. Angle the crepe pan slightly to utilize the vertical space.
I hope you found this comprehensive guide detailing various storage solutions for keeping crepe pans protected useful! Do you have any other handy crepe pan storage tips? Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section below!
