 | ||
| Your browser is not supported. | ||
|
Please browse our site using any of the following options:
| ||
Cleaning Cast Iron: How To Care For Your Cast Iron Cookware
Cookware made from cast iron is some of the best cooking equipment you can have in your kitchen. It is extremely durable, will last for a very long time and has an impressive thermal density when cooking. However, when cast iron cookware is not taken care of well, it can quickly turn into a nightmare.
If you've noticed marks and grime starting to form on your cast iron cookware and you're scratching your head over how to clean a cast iron pan, never fear - we've created an in-depth guide to explain everything you need to know. But first, here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to cast iron cookware.
Quick Links:
- Most Common Cast Iron Cookware Questions
- What You Will Need
- How To Clean A Cast Iron Pan, Skillet & Pot
- Seasoning A Cast Iron Pan
- Common Cast Iron Cookware Myths
Most Common Cast Iron Cookware Questions
What's the best thing to clean cast iron with?
Although you don't want to use harsh cleaning products like steel scourers, you don't have to be too gentle when scrubbing cast iron. You can find specific cast iron cleaning brushes, but if you don't have one, any brush with bristles will do just fine. Contrary to popular belief, you can also use a little bit of mild dish soap to clean your cast iron pans.
Can you put cast iron in the dishwasher?
The simple answer is no, you cannot put your cast iron pans in the dishwasher, no matter how tempting it may be. This is because the strength of dishwashing detergents will strip away the non-stick surface of the cast iron and leave your beautiful cast iron cookware vulnerable to rust.
Is it ok to boil water in cast iron?
This is a tricky one to answer. It is ok to boil water in your cast iron cookware - but only occasionally, if you absolutely need to. Otherwise, it is not a good idea to use your cast iron cookware to boil water. This is because if you constantly boil water in it, like for cooking pasta noodles, it will cause the cast iron to release its seasoning and taint the water.
What happens if it does rust?
If your cast iron rusts, don't despair! You can (almost) always save a rusty cast iron skillet. Depending on the level of rust, you can either take your cast iron to be professionally sanded back or, if the damage is not too extensive, you can remove the rust at home by using a fine steel wool to scour back any affected areas, then re-season it.
Can you use baking soda to clean cast iron?
Yes, you can use baking soda to clean cast iron. In fact, baking soda is a great alternative if you don't have any specific cast iron cleaning products on hand. Just put a little bit of baking soda in your cast iron pan, add in some water and you are ready to start cleaning.
What should you not cook in a cast iron pan?
Even though seasoning your cast iron cookware gives it a non-stick coating, it's best to avoid cooking sticky foods, with the main culprit being eggs. Foods that are smelly are best avoided, such as stinky cheese, as they tend to leave their aromatic scent in the pan if it's not properly cleaned each time. Delicate foods, such as trout, are also not the best to cook in cast iron as the heat can get quite intense and cause them to stick to the surface.
Why is my cast iron black when I wipe?
There could be many reasons for this, and all are a result of the cast iron not being properly cleaned. Burnt food particles can appear if the seasoning has been stripped off and not applied back on before cooking. Another main reason can be carbon deposits, which is the residue left over from the overheating of oils and fats when cooking.
What You Will Need
Before you begin rolling up your sleeves and start scrubbing, here is a list of cleaning supplies and products you'll need:
- A cast iron pan, skillet or other piece of cast iron cookware you want to clean.
- Some paper towels or a clean, dry tea towel.
- A clean sponge or a brush with bristles.
- Cleaning gloves (optional).
- Kosher salt or mild dish soap (just a little bit).
- If there is a lot of gunk built up, a scourer to help break it down.
How To Clean A Cast Iron Pan, Skillet & Pot
Let's dive into the steps to cleaning your cast iron and ensuring you do it properly. Ensure your cast iron lasts longer and stays clean.
Step 1: Fill Sink and Remove Stuck on Food
Fill your sink up with hot water. If you're using mild dish soap, then squirt a couple of drops in the water and mix it around. If using salt when cleaning cast iron, add some into the pan with a little bit of the water. The salt will gently scrub off any stuck-on food particles or stains from the pan without being too harsh on your cast iron cookware.
Step 2: Start Scrubbing Gently
Now put on your gloves, grab your brush or sponge (or scourer for lots of built-up gunk) and start cleaning. Remember to scrub in small circular motions all over the surface of the cast iron pan to make sure there are no stains or marks left behind. Don't be afraid to put in some elbow grease to make sure any stubborn marks or stains are removed.
Step 3: Rinse With Clean Water and Scrub Again if Needed
Dunk the cast iron pan into the sink water and then rinse it clean with clean hot water until you can't see anything left behind on the surface. If you notice any marks, stains or residue remaining, then give it another scrub until you are sure that the pan is completely clean.
Step 4: Dry With a Tea Towel or Paper Towel
Rather than letting it dry on a dish rack, use a clean tea towel or paper towel to dry the cookware. Remember, if any water is left behind it can result in rust and wreak havoc on your cast iron cookware, which is why it is important to make sure that it is fully dried.
How often should you clean cast iron cookware?
Cast iron cookware should be cleaned after every use to maintain its seasoning and prevent food buildup. Avoid harsh detergents or scrubbing, instead, use hot water and a gentle brush or sponge. If needed, a small amount of mild soap can be used sparingly. After cleaning, dry the cookware thoroughly and apply a thin layer of oil to protect it from rust. Regular maintenance ensures its durability and non-stick properties. However, avoid over-cleaning or soaking, as this can strip the seasoning. With proper care, cast iron cookware can last for generations.
Seasoning A Cast Iron Pan
Step 1: Ensure Pan is Clean and Dry
Before starting the process of seasoning your cast iron cookware, it is essential to ensure that it has been thoroughly cleaned and completely dried. Follow the steps outlined above to achieve this. Once the cookware is clean and dry, the next step is to preheat your oven. Set the temperature to 230 C and allow it to heat fully. This preparation is crucial for achieving an effective and long-lasting seasoning on your cast iron.
Step 2: Start Wiping Down With Oil
Take a bottle of cooking oil, such as corn, canola or vegetable oil, and gently pour a small amount onto a clean paper towel. Using the oiled paper towel, start wiping the entire surface of the cast iron skillet, ensuring you cover every part thoroughly. This includes the interior cooking surface, the exterior sides, and even the handle. Make sure to apply an even, thin layer of oil to all areas to prepare the skillet for proper seasoning and maintenance.
Step 3: Heat Your Cast Iron Pan
Carefully place your cast iron pan, skillet or pot into the preheated oven, ensuring it is positioned securely on the middle rack. Allow it to bake for approximately 30 minutes, as this extended exposure to heat is essential for the oil to properly set and bond with the surface of the cookware. This process helps create a durable, non-stick seasoning layer that protects the cast iron and enhances its cooking performance over time.
Step 4: Allow Cast Iron Pan to Cool
Using an oven glove or a thick tea towel to protect your hands, carefully remove the hot pan from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes until it is safe to handle. Once cooled, apply another thin, even layer of oil to the entire surface of the pan. After recoating, place the pan back into the oven and let it bake for an additional 30 minutes to further strengthen the seasoning layer.
Step 4: Repeat the Process
Repeat the entire seasoning process two more times to ensure that the cast iron cookware develops a strong, durable layer of seasoning. After each round of oil application and baking, inspect the surface to confirm it is properly coated. By the end of the process, the cast iron should have a smooth, shiny and semi-gloss finish, indicating that the seasoning has been successfully applied. This finish not only enhances its appearance but also improves its non-stick properties and longevity.
How often should you season cast iron cookware?
To maintain your cast iron cookware, it is recommended that you season it thoroughly two to three times per year. However, for optimal care, it's a good practice to lightly oil your cast iron skillets, pans and pots after every use. This additional step helps preserve the seasoning, prevents rust and keeps the cookware in excellent condition. Regular oiling ensures the surface remains smooth, non-stick and protected, extending the life and performance of your cast iron for years to come.
Common Cast Iron Cookware Myths
If you have searched online for how to clean cast iron, you will have no doubt come across many myths and claims regarding how to use and clean cast iron cookware. To help eliminate any confusion you may have, here are the most common myths about cast iron:
You shouldn't use cast iron to cook acidic foods
Many claim that cooking acidic food in cast iron cookware will result in the metal reacting with the acids, making it seep into your food when used again for cooking. The reality is, well, a little tricky. It is fine to use a well-seasoned pan to cook acidic foods such as tomatoes and deglazing the pan with wine. However, you should avoid simmering acidic sauces like tomato sauce as it will have much longer contact with the metal during cooking.
Cast iron isn't that durable
Another common theory is that it's really hard to look after cast iron cookware and that it isn't that durable. Apart from being able to withstand a drop to the floor, cast iron is strong and durable. To give you an idea of just how durable cast iron is, the gardens of the Chateau de Versailles in France still use cast iron pipes that were laid down way back in 1672! As long as you properly clean and season your cast iron cookware, it will last for a very long time.
Metal utensils will ruin the cast iron
As we just mentioned, cast iron is incredibly durable. This means that you don't have to throw out all your metal cooking utensils. Using a metal spatula or tongs when cooking with cast iron is perfectly fine, just make sure you are correctly cleaning it and seasoning accordingly. But if you are still paranoid about scratching the cast iron, you can always use wooden or silicone kitchen utensils instead.
Never wash cast iron cookware with soap
This is probably the most frequent myth when it comes to cooking with cast iron, and as we mentioned at the beginning, it's a little tricky. The myth is that cleaning your cast iron pots and pans with soap will erode the oil from seasoning. The reality is that seasoning is actually a layer of polymerised oil, not oil. This means that dish detergent can't easily affect it when cleaning - however, it can if you let the cast iron soak in it.
Follow These Easy Steps for Cleaning Cast Iron
When it comes to knowing how to clean a cast iron pan properly and ensure they are correctly seasoned, just follow the above steps and you can enjoy your cast iron cookware for many years to come. If you have been on the fence about upgrading the cookware in your kitchen, then explore our entire cast iron cookware range today.
Visit us online or in-store and head over to the Hub for more helpful tips, ideas, and inspiration! Some great articles you will love include:
