Stainless steel cookware can be a bit intimidating for the novice kitchen user. It has a reputation for being heavy, unwieldy and not easy to clean up—but it’s also versatile enough for almost any cooking task. Whether you’re searing chops, caramelizing onions or making a big batch of soup, a quality set of pots and pans will stand the test of time. And while a little effort will be required to keep it looking good, there are some tips and tricks that can help.

First, avoid metal scouring pads or other abrasive cleaners. Using these can scratch the surface of your cookware, reducing its longevity. Instead, opt for a soft sponge or use a gentle cleaner such as Bar Keepers Friend, mixed with a little water. If you’re dealing with stubborn stuck-on food or stains, make a paste of the cleaner and let it sit on the surface for several hours, then rinse the cookware well and dry with a lint-free cloth.

When shopping for a stainless steel set, look for a pan or pot that’s fully clad. This means the pan is built with an aluminum or copper core sandwiched between layers of stainless steel to improve heat transfer and distribution. Cladding is a great example of how different materials can combine their strengths to create superior cookware.

In addition to the added benefit of better conductivity, a fully clad pan or pot will be more durable than a single-layer stainless steel pot. This is because the additional layer of copper or aluminum will help absorb some of the impact from drops and other kitchen accidents. Moreover, the aluminum or copper will distribute the heat more evenly than a single piece of stainless steel, lessening the chance of hot spots.

Another reason to invest in a fully clad set of stainless steel pots and pans is that it can be used in the oven, while many non-clad pans can’t. This can be particularly helpful when preparing delicate foods that need to be cooked gently, such as fish or eggs.

Finally, a note about sourcing and production: The process of mining the raw materials used in stainless steel, including iron and chromium, can have a large carbon footprint. The same is true of manufacturing and distributing the finished product. This makes the choice to purchase stainless steel cookware a somewhat environmental conscientious one, especially when compared to PTFE-based nonstick alternatives.