When you have a dirty frying pan, try this cleaning method. It usually will remove all the black, cruddy buildup from the bottom of a pan or an electric skillet, for that matter. Place the pan or skillet upside-down, inside a plastic garbage bag. Pour ammonia onto the back of the pan, but avoid getting ammonia on the cooking surface side. Lay an absorbent cloth over the ammonia and then add more ammonia until the rag is saturated. Close the plastic bag, making an airtight seal. Let the pan soak overnight, or for at least eight hours. Remove the pan from the bag and rinse it off in hot water. Use a steel wool scrubbing pad to eliminate extra-tough spots.