How can I repair scratches on my non-stick pots and pans? And how can I prevent rusting?

Question

I always have to throw out expensive non-stick pots and pans and this time I would love to keep my new set around for a few years. How can I repair the scratches that are present now and prevent my pots from later rusting?

Answer 1

You cannot safely repair scratches on non-stick pans.  Damaged non-stick pans release a subtle amount but highly mutagenic, carcenagenic chemical present in the non-stick surface.  Remember that if you have accidently burned up a non-stick surface by leaving it unattended on the stove that you should discard it.

Answer 2

I think it would cost more to repair scratches then it would to replace them.  They would need to be sent back to the manufacture to be resurfaced.

Answer 3

I haven't tried this, but if you can heat the dish part of the pots/pans (not the plastic handles) to about 620-650 degrees F, the nonstick substance (Teflon) will begin to melt and just may repair the scratches itself. Heat it for about 30 mins at that temperature then turn off the heat and let it cool to room temp. If it works - good, if it doesn't you were going to throw out the items anyway.