RACO Reliance 20cm Nonstick Frypan: First Use and Care
By RACO Australia | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: Tips & Care
Get your RACO Reliance 20cm stainless steel nonstick induction frypan off to a good start. Follow these first-use steps and simple care habits to keep the coating performing.
Quick answer
Wash the frypan in warm soapy water, dry it fully, then warm a thin film of cooking oil over low heat for about a minute before your first cook. Always use low to medium heat on induction and hand-wash after each use to protect the nonstick coating.
Why induction heat control matters from day one
Induction cooktops respond fast, and a 20cm frypan has a small base that can overheat quickly if you start on high. Begin on a low setting and let the pan come up to temperature gradually; this protects the nonstick layer and gives you more control for eggs, pancakes and quick sautés.
The RACO Reliance 20cm is designed for induction, but the coating is still the delicate part. Treat the pan as a nonstick surface first and an induction pan second.
The seasoning question: what actually helps
You do not need to build a traditional seasoned layer like you would on bare cast iron. A light oil warm-up before the first few uses helps condition the surface and improves release, but heavy oil or high heat can leave a sticky film that is hard to remove.
If the pan feels tacky after seasoning, wash it with warm soapy water and a soft sponge before cooking.
Everyday habits that extend coating life
Use silicone, wooden or plastic utensils, and avoid metal tongs or whisks that can scratch the coating. Let the pan cool completely before washing, and skip the dishwasher even if your detergent claims to be gentle.
Stack the frypan carefully: place a soft cloth or paper towel between it and other pans, or hang it by the handle if you can.
First-use steps for your RACO Reliance 20cm frypan
- Unpack and wash before first use: Remove all packaging and stickers. Wash the frypan in warm water with a little dish soap and a soft sponge, then rinse and dry thoroughly with a towel. Never skip drying: moisture left on the pan can cause water spots or interfere with the first seasoning.
- Warm the pan gently on induction: Place the frypan on your induction cooktop and set the heat to low for 30 seconds. Do not preheat on high, even if you are in a hurry. A small 20cm base heats quickly; low heat gives you control and protects the nonstick layer.
- Apply a thin oil film: Add about half a teaspoon of cooking oil and swirl it around the pan with a paper towel or silicone brush. Keep the heat low for about one minute, then wipe out any excess oil with a clean paper towel. The pan should look barely shiny, not wet or pooling with oil.
- Cook your first meal on low to medium: For the first few uses, stick to low or medium heat and avoid searing or frying at high temperatures. Add a little oil or butter as you normally would. If food starts to stick, lower the heat rather than adding more oil.
- Cool, then hand-wash: Let the frypan cool completely, then wash it with warm soapy water and a soft sponge. Do not plunge a hot pan into cold water. Thermal shock can warp the base and damage the coating over time.
- Dry and store with protection: Dry the pan thoroughly with a towel before storing. If you stack it, place a soft cloth or paper towel between the frypan and the pan above it. Storing while damp or stacking without a barrier can scratch or mark the nonstick surface.
Product facts
- RACO Reliance Stainless Steel Induction Nonstick Frypan 20cm: RACO Reliance is a broad collection of superior quality cookware designed to perform and affordably priced. This 20cm frypan is part of a range built for real family cooking, so simple care habits help you get reliable results without spending more.
RACO Reliance Stainless Steel Induction Nonstick Frypan 20cm
