How to Season a New Nonstick Fry Pan
By Tefal Singapore | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the simple steps to prepare your new Tefal nonstick fry pan for first use, ensuring a long-lasting nonstick surface and effortless cooking.
Quick answer
Seasoning a new nonstick fry pan is easy: wash it, heat it gently, and apply a thin layer of oil. This protects the coating and improves food release from the start.
Why seasoning matters for nonstick pans
Even though nonstick pans are designed to release food easily, a quick seasoning pass fills microscopic pores in the coating and creates a smoother surface. This extra layer of oil also helps protect the coating from high heat and everyday wear.
What to avoid
Do not use cooking spray or aerosol oils—they contain additives that can build up and create a sticky residue. Stick to plain vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil. Also avoid overheating the pan before it has oil, as that can damage the coating.
How to season your new nonstick fry pan
- Wash and dry: Hand-wash the pan with warm water and mild dish soap. Use a soft sponge to avoid scratching the coating. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely with a soft cloth. Skipping this step can leave factory residues that affect food release.
- Heat the pan: Place the pan on a stove burner over medium-low heat for about 2 minutes. Do not let the pan get smoking hot—nonstick coatings can degrade above 500°F (260°C). If you see smoke, remove the pan immediately and let it cool before restarting.
- Apply oil: Remove the pan from heat and add about 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil. Use a paper towel to rub the oil evenly over the entire cooking surface, including the sidewalls. Wipe away any excess so only a thin film remains. Too much oil will become sticky; a thin sheen is all you need.
- Cool and store: Let the pan cool completely on the stove or a trivet. Once cool, store it with a protective layer—either hang it or place a paper towel inside to prevent scratching from other pans. Stacking pans without protection can wear away the seasoning and coating over time.
Product used in this guide
- Tefal So Light Fry Pan 22cm / Fry Pan 24cm / Fry Pan 28cm / Wok Pan 28cm: Ultra-lightweight – up to 43% lighter (vs Tefal Unlimited) thanks to Tefal’s Light Tech technology. A lighter pan is easier to handle when tilting or pouring, making the seasoning process more comfortable and controlled.
Tefal So Light Fry Pan 22cm / Fry Pan 24cm / Fry Pan 28cm / Wok Pan 28cm
