Why are there spots or pitting on the inside of my stainless steel pan?

Spots or pitting on the inside of stainless steel pans are usually caused by salts and acids naturally present in water and food. This can be especially noticeable on brand new pans and is a common issue when cooking starchy foods like potatoes or pasta.

One of the main causes is adding salt to cold water. Salt doesn’t dissolve well in cold water and tends to sink to the bottom, where the sodium reacts with the nickel in the stainless steel, causing minor surface marks or pitting.

To prevent this, always add salt after the water has reached a rolling boil. This simple step helps protect your pan and keeps it looking pristine for longer.