Tried to renew brake pads but didn't work
I have a bike that hasn't been used for a while. It's been indoors but it ended up getting quite dusty. I cleaned it up and took it out, but the brakes didn't work very well. I did a bit of research on how to clean them, so I took the pads out and heated them in a frying pan. I then wiped off as much residue as I could, sanded them, and wiped them down again. This didn't help at all though and they seem even worse now. Is there anything else I can do or will I just have to get new pads? I was reluctant to buy new ones at first as these ones are barely worn. I tried to find the exact model of the brakes in case it was relevant but I couldn't find a specification for the bike model I have with it being quite old. It's a Specialized Rockhopper en14766 if that matters.
Also while I'm asking, I was wondering whether the suspension is likely to need any maintenance after being left untouched for a while?
Thanks in advance. Any advice would be appreciated.