How to Use Felt Between Pans to Prevent Scratches

Stacking pans is a practical way to make the most of cupboard space, but direct contact between them can cause friction and minor scratches, particularly when a pan is pulled out or turned while being removed. A layer of felt, soft fabric or another suitable material provides a straightforward barrier between the surfaces.

Why can pans become scratched when they are stacked?

Although they may appear completely smooth, pan surfaces can be subject to friction in storage. For instance, when removing an item from the middle of a stack, it may slide against the pan above or below it.

Repeated contact can be particularly unwelcome with pans that have a non-stick coating, as scratches and surface damage may affect the finish. Separating the items is therefore an easy way to limit direct contact.

How does felt help protect pans?

Felt acts as an intermediate layer between two surfaces. Rather than allowing metal, a coating or a finish to touch another pan directly, it places a soft material between them.

The same approach can be used with clean, soft fabrics, provided they do not contain metal parts, zips or other features that could cause scratches. The separator should cover the area that will touch the other item.

How should material be placed between pans?

Cut the felt or fabric into a shape roughly matching the base of the pan. It does not need to fit perfectly, but it should be large enough to create separation between the surfaces.

Then place one layer between every pan before stacking them. If lids are stored with the cookware, they can also be separated so that their edges or metal components do not come into direct contact with the coatings.

Does every type of pan need this care?

This measure is particularly useful for items with surfaces that are prone to scratching, including certain non-stick coatings. Pans made from more durable materials can also benefit from separation, especially where they have finishes you want to preserve.

Avoid rough materials or anything that collects hard particles. A dirty separator can have the opposite effect, carrying residue that increases friction.

Using felt between pans is therefore a simple solution for anyone who needs to stack cookware without allowing the surfaces to touch directly. As well as helping to preserve the finish, separation can make it safer to take a pan from the stack without dragging one item against another.