Don't run your pot under water while it's still hot or you run the risk of warping it! Instead, let your pot cool, then fill it just over halfway with water. Return it to the stove and let it come to a boil (you can toss your forks and add your candy thermometer to the side to clean them, too!). The caramel will soften as it cools, as this happens, use a heatproof spatula to help scrape the melted candy off, then pour it down the drain. Let your pot cool again before cleaning with soap and water.