FAQ
Cookware
What's the difference between cookware made of copper, aluminum, hard anodized aluminum and stainless steel?
Each material has their own unique properties, for example copper and aluminum feature some of the best heat conductivity on the market. Hard anodized is twice as tough as stainless steel and our hard anodized Lotus Effect collection, contains natural texture on the surface providing stick resistant when cooking. Finally stainless steel, not only is it a very durable material, it is also very attractive given its shiny exterior.
Should I buy a complete cookware set?
Generally cookware sets are very cost-effective, however only if you need every piece in the set. If you have plenty of mix and match pieces of cookware at home, you can choose to buy the pieces individually for a decent price too.
The most expensive cookware on the market is often too heavy for me. Do I need to purchase heavyweight cookware to get good results?
Generally, heavier cookware conducts heat better than lighter weight cookware and better resists warping. This is, most of the times, because of its base thickness, the thicker it is the better the heat distribution. However, you don't need to search specifically for very heavy cookware in order to get good cooking performance. What is important is that you must search for cookwares that satisfy your everyday cooking needs.
What should I consider when it comes to handles?
Once again, the decision regarding the handle has to be based on your cooking needs. Most bakelite handles can sustain oven cooking until 350°F/176°C. So if you often use your cookware in the oven in high heat, it is better to stick with one with a traditional stainless steel handle. Nowadays, more and more cookware has been implementing a silicone handle. Silicone is very comfortable to hold and provides excellent grip, moreover it goes to oven up 392°F/200°C.
Why does my stainless steel pan have little white stains on the inside?
Little natural limescale stains appear on a stainless steel pan after exposing it to intense heat. Also, bluish rings may appear due to starch contained in some food. To remove these stains, you can simply rub the area with a soft cloth soaked in lemon juice, vinegar or a special cleaner for stainless steel pans.
Are my cookware dishwasher safe?
Depending on the construction and design of the cookware, some may be dishwasher safe and others may not. So, it is important to read the care and use of each product you purchase before using it. If the cookware can be used in a dishwasher, you must not leave it in the dishwasher after the cycle has finished, it is recommended to dry your pan thoroughly, immediately after washing. Moreover, if placed in the dishwasher, the exterior may become dull and discoloured due to the action of certain detergents, most warranties do not cover such wear s the performance of the cookware is not affected.
What does "tri-ply" mean?
Tri-ply is a combination of 3 layers of metal: Stainless Steel/ Aluminum or Copper/ Stainless Steel. This bonding process allows a perfect and even heat distribution from the base of the pan all the way up on the sides of it. The multi-layer material retains heat longer and saves energy on all stovetops. Because the aluminum core runs from the base to rim, the entire contents of the pot or pan stays at the same temperature, ensuring even cooking. The equal distribution of heat eliminates hot spots, allowing you to cook the most delicate dishes.
Why is my non-stick pan sticking?
The use of high heat is not recommended when using a cookware with non-stick coating. As non-stick products heat well at lower temperatures, we recommend the use of low to medium heat in order to preserve your non-stick coating. Also, cookware should be cleaned after each use with warm soapy water; otherwise food residue may build up causing stickiness and damages to your non-stick coating. For more information please see the care and use section of your product.
Are my cookware handles oven safe?
Cookware handles have many different temperatures that they are capable to withstand. Always follow the care and use included with the purchase of your cookware, in order to find out what temperature is recommended for its use.
Do I need to season my non-stick cookware?
When using cookware with non-stick coating, it is not a requirement that you season your pan before first use.
Can I use metal utensils on my nonstick cookware?
Although you may use metal utensils while cooking with non-stick cookware, we do not recommend it as it may damage the non-stick coating or your cookware in the process. What we recommend are the use of plastic, nylon, wooden or silicone utensils.
Do stainless steel handles get hot?
The heat setting and the length of the handle determine how long the handle will stay cool to the touch. As long as the handle is attached to the pan, it will get hot. Thus, it is always recommended to use gloves or oven mitts when handling the pan around.
How do I clean the enamel exterior on my cookware?
To clean the enamel exterior on your cookware, you can simply wash it with warm soapy water, followed by rinsing and drying with a soft dry cloth. If water spotting appears, we recommend using mild dishwashing detergent during the wash and towel dry thoroughly.
Why does a pan warp?
A pan warps under thermal shock, for example an empty pan gets overheated, a hot pan comes in contact with cold water, etc... To prevent pans from warping, we recommend you to let the pan cool to room temperature before cleaning.
Will the non-stick coating wear off?
It is uncommon for non-stick coating to wear off under normal household use. Proper use and care for the product will allow for better performance over time. Most cases of non-stick coating wearing are due to overheating, scratching of the coating with metal utensils or abrasive cleaning. These types of damages are not covered under warranty, thus it is important to read the warranty very carefully before the use of any cookware.
If the cookware is accidentally overheated, are there hazardous fumes?
Any material heated to a high enough temperature will give off fumes. For non-stick cookware, the fumes do not pose any health problems to human or household pets with the exception of birds. As birds have a particularly sensitive respirator system, the fumes can be harmful to them. So, cooks should never allow any cookware to overheat.
What is induction cook top?
Induction is a technology that uses a magnetic field to create heat, which not only allows for rapid and precise heating, it also saves an enormous amount of energy at the same time. This technology generates a warming effect on your actual cookware and not your cook top, thus making your cook top cool even after you remove your cookware.
Where can you buy Starfrit/ Heritage cookware?
Please refer to the WHERE TO BUY tab for more information on locations to purchase our cookware.
What do I do when there is a chip/crack on my glass lid upon purchase?
Depending on the nature of the issue, we will be able to provide a replacement lid. Certain conditions apply for more information please contact our customer service department for further assistance, either by email or telephone.
What do I do when there is a problem with my cookware handle upon purchase?
Depending on the nature of the issue, we will be able to provide a replacement handle. Certain conditions apply for more information please contact our customer service department for further assistance, either by email or telephone. It is important to remember that we have a 24hr delay response time.
Warranty – What does it include?
Warranties depend from cookware to cookware, however it guarantees that your product is free from manufacture defects and workmanship at the time of purchase. For the warranty to apply, the owner must follow the care and use instructions as such, it covers only normal household use and does not cover damages caused by incorrect use, professional use, or if the utensil is banged or dropped. For more information please refer to the care and use section of your product.
How do I clean my hard anodized material?
While cleaning the hard anodized cookware, you must never put cold water into a hot utensil. Sudden changes of temperature may cause thermal shock damage to the cookware. Instead, let the cookware cool in lukewarm soapy water. After use, clean the utensil with nylon brush in hot soapy water, then dry immediately. Never use metal scouring pads to clean the cookware. Never put it in the dishwasher.
To remove stubborn stains, simply use a non-abrasive scouring pad with hot soapy water. And to remove cooking residue, boil warm tap water in the pan to soften residue, then clean it with the warm soapy water while the pan is warm.
To remove stubborn stains, simply use a non-abrasive scouring pad with hot soapy water. And to remove cooking residue, boil warm tap water in the pan to soften residue, then clean it with the warm soapy water while the pan is warm.
How do I store my cookware properly?
In order to store your cookware properly, it is important to remember to keep the contact between cookware as minimal as possible. If a cookware is stacked one on top of another, it could cause chips or scratches. We recommend the use of a cloth or a pan protector to separate each cookware when storing.
If my cookware is damaged and needs repairing, what do I do?
If your cookware is damaged and needs repairing, please contact our customer service department for further assistance, either by email or telephone. It is important to remember that we have a 24hr delay response time.
What are PFOA and PFTE?
PFOA is a chemical used in the production of PTFE, which is a non-stick finish on cookware. It is important to understand that PFOA is not part of the finished product of non-stick cookware or bake ware, thus no measurable amounts of PFOA will be present after a proper curing process. Also consumers are never exposed to PFOA when using their non-stick cookware.
Do hard anodized cookware (Lotus Effect) have a non-stick coating?
Lotus Effect hard anodized cookware have a stick-resistant surface and not a non-stick coating. In order to have better cooking results, add a dab of oil onto the pan before use.
The handle of my cookware is becoming loose, what should I do?
Screwed handles tend to become looser with use. Check periodically and tighten as needed.