Question:
Hello,
If one buys new pots and pans, utensils, measuring cups, etc. from the store, does anything need to be done to kasher them?
Answer:
Thank you for your question.
There are two potential issues when buying new utensils. They may require 1. tevila, and possibly 2. hagalah.
- The rule is that pots and pans, utensils, measuring cups, etc. and other utensils that are made of metal or glass that were made or bought from a gentile require tevila (immersion in a kosher mikva) before they are used. It would be a good idea for you to see the following link https://dinonline.org/category/ask/kashrut/tevilas-keilim/ where you can see more information about toveling new utensils. You will be able to learn more of the rules, regarding who to prepare the utensil for tevila, and how to immerse it.
- There are authorities that require certain pots and pans (ones that are shiny) because they might have been smeared with non-kosher oils. Many people in Eretz Yisroel indeed do hagalah (purging of the absorbed taste) on new pots and pans. However, others argue on this, and this is the custom of many in the states.
Best wishes
