Taking good care of your cast iron pots and pans is essential to keep your favorite kitchen tools working well for generations to come. However, it doesn’t have to be time consuming or stressful!
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for you:
- Cool Down: After cooking, allow the pan to cool. Working with it while it’s too hot can cause warping.
- Add water: To get all the food off, add a bit of water while the pan is still warm. Then, let it soak just until the food particles are loosened.
- Rinse with Warm Water: Rinse the pan under warm or hot running water. Avoid using cold water, as it can cause the pan to warp. Use a tool like this classic Cast Iron Skillet Scrubber to remove any remaining food particles.
- Use Mild Dish Soap (Optional): I know shocking! It’s actually fine to use a small amount of mild dish soap if needed. Some people prefer to skip this step to preserve the seasoning. Using a small amount of soap can help remove stubborn residue. It can also remove smells that can alter the next dish you make. This is the best natural dish soap for cast iron. If you do use soap, make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
- Dry Thoroughly: This is the most important part: dry your cast iron pan with a towel immediately after washing. Moisture can lead to rusting, so it’s important to make sure the pan is completely dry.
- Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: (You can optionally reheat the pan to a warm temp before doing this.) Use a paper towel to apply a very thin layer of vegetable oil. Avocado oil or a solid shortening like lard or tallow are good choices. Apply to the entire cooking surface, including the sides and the handle. Wipe off any excess oil; the surface should look dry and not greasy. This re-seasoning is to prevent rusting and allow you to start fresh on your next meal!
- Store Properly: Store your cast iron pan in a cool, dry place. You can simply stack it with other pans. Placing a paper towel or cloth between pans can help prevent scratches.
Being consistent with these simple steps will help you to maintain your favorite cast iron skillets, pots, and pans! Note: if you ever notice rust spots or a decline in the pan’s seasoning, be sure to re-season ASAP to restore its non-stick properties.
The Best Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet with Signature Teardrop Handle
The best cast iron set: Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 5 Piece Bundle
The best cast iron scrubber: Herda Cast Iron Scrubber
Natural, mild dish soap for cast iron: Thieves® Dish Soap
This post was all about how to clean a cast iron skillet to save time and stress.
