Are pans toxic if they get overheated?

Question

Today my oven turned on by itself

(It beeps often everyday)

and i had two grill pans (they're stainless steel) in there

i dont know what degree it was but theres black stuff over the lids

please help because i need to use pans tonight for dinner

Answer 1

I wouldn't think any harm was done and a usual washing with dish soap would be all I'd do. But you might need to fix whatever is causing your oven to come on, sounds like a timer is going bad.

Answer 2

non stick pans give off toxic gas when they are overheated, stainless steel should be okay.

Answer 3

True story - when I was about 12 we had a bird.  I had made an omelet and accidentally left the burner on with the Teflon skillet on the burner.  The fumes killed the bird.  I guess this reinforces the practice that miners use birds to signal deadly gases.  So, yes, I think Teflon pans anyway can be toxic.  I think the stainless steel pans would be fine.  Try Mr. Clean erasers to clean them - they are amazing!   PS - Have that oven checked out!

Answer 4

sos pads or baking soda & water should get the soot off