Cody Casey
Cast iron skillets are relatively hardy, but there are some common storage mistakes that can damage them. Some sources claim that cast iron pans can be stacked, while others advise against it. Those who stack their pans recommend placing a barrier, such as a paper towel, between them to prevent rust and to keep the cooking surfaces clean. Others suggest using a magnetic hanger or installing hooks or screws to hang the pans on a wall.
Can you stack cast iron pans?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Stacking cast iron pans | Possible |
| Preventing scratches and chips | Use paper towels, paper bags, or silicone mats between pans |
| Preventing corrosion | Avoid stacking pans when wet or in humid environments |
| Storage options | Hang on wall, use storage racks, or stack on countertops or in cupboards |
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What You'll Learn
Stacking cast iron pans is generally safe
One concern when stacking cast iron pans is the potential for scratching or chipping. While cast iron is relatively hardy, some users suggest placing a protective layer between the pans to prevent them from scratching each other. This could be a paper towel, a folded cloth, a cheap cork table mat, or a silicone stacking mat. These protective layers can also prevent crumbs or dirt particles from sticking to the seasoning on the surface of your pans.
Another concern is rust formation. Stacking metal-to-metal can attract water through capillary action, leading to rust. To prevent this, some people recommend using a piece of paper towel or a silicone trivet between the pans to absorb any moisture. Keeping a thin coat of oil on the pans can also help prevent rust.
If you choose to hang your pans on a wall instead of stacking them, you can use magnetic hangers, hooks, or screws. Magnetic hangers are a good option if you have limited space, while hooks or screws installed into a wooden panel can add stability and a decorative touch.
Overall, stacking cast iron pans is generally safe as long as you take the necessary precautions to prevent scratching, chipping, and rust formation.
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Preventing corrosion is key
One option is to use a piece of paper towel or a paper bag between the pans. This helps to prevent rust by soaking up any excess moisture. It also keeps the cooking surfaces clean by preventing contact with the potentially dirty bottoms of other pans. Additionally, a paper towel can prevent cast iron pans from sticking together when stacked and stored, especially if there is an excess of seasoning or oil on the pans.
If you don't want to use paper, you can use inexpensive silicone trivets or silicone stacking mats between the pans. These will also protect your pans from rust and sticking together. Another option is to use a roll of padded shelf-liner, which can be cut to size and has multiple uses.
If you live in a humid climate, it is especially important to take steps to prevent corrosion. In addition to using a barrier between the pans, you should also ensure that you don't put them away wet. Keeping a thin coat of oil on the pans can help to protect them from moisture.
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Use paper towels or silicone mats between pans
While cast iron is pretty indestructible, you can prevent chipping and scratching by stacking your pans with a buffer between them. Paper towels are a great option for this. They prevent the cooking surfaces from getting dirty by avoiding contact with the potentially dirty bottoms of other pans. Paper towels also prevent cast iron pans from sticking together when stacked and stored. Pans that are oversaturated with oil can stick together, especially if they are not used frequently.
Paper towels can also soak up any excess moisture and prevent rust from forming. If you're concerned about the environment, you can use paper towels made from recycled paper.
Another option is to use silicone mats between your pans. These work well for non-stick pans, but some people are unsure about using them with wet oil. Silicone mats are a good option if you want a more durable and long-lasting solution. They are also heat-resistant, so you don't have to worry about them melting if they come into contact with a warm pan.
You can find silicone mats in various sizes and shapes, including trivets and liners, which can be cut to size. This makes it easy to find an option that fits your pans perfectly. Using mats or towels between your pans will also help to distribute the weight more evenly, reducing the chances of pans getting damaged or scratched.
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Avoid stacking enamel-coated cast iron
While cast iron skillets are relatively hardy and can be stacked, enamel-coated cast iron is heavier, more fragile, and more prone to chipping or cracking, so stacking them is not recommended. Here are some reasons why you should avoid stacking enamel-coated cast iron:
Prevent Chipping and Cracking
Enamel-coated cast iron is heavier than conventional cast iron, making it more susceptible to chipping or cracking if dropped or banged against other pans. The impact can damage the enamel coating, exposing the cast iron underneath, which can then rust.
Avoid Stacking Heavy Items
Enamel-coated cast iron should not bear the weight of heavy items stacked on top of it. This additional weight increases the risk of chipping or cracking the enamel coating.
Protect the Enamel Finish
The enamel finish on cast iron cookware is fragile and can be easily scratched or chipped. Stacking these pans can lead to unwanted contact and potential damage to the finish. Using lid protectors or pan protectors between stacked pans can help prevent this.
Prevent Rust Formation
The glossy porcelain coating on enamel-coated cast iron resists rust. However, if the enamel chips or cracks, exposing the cast iron, rust can form. Stacking these pans without proper protection can increase the risk of enamel damage and subsequent rust formation.
Avoid Sticking and Moisture
While enamel-coated cast iron is non-stick, it can benefit from a light coating of oil. Stacking oiled pans can cause them to stick together. Additionally, paper towels or other protective layers between pans can help absorb excess moisture and prevent rust.
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Alternative storage methods: hang or use a rack
If you're looking for an alternative to stacking your cast iron pans, you could consider hanging them on a wall or using a rack.
Hanging Cast Iron Pans
A popular method for storing cast iron pans is to hang them on a wall. This can be achieved by using hooks or screws to hang the pans directly on the wall or by installing a wooden panel on the wall to hold the hooks or screws. When installing hooks or screws, it is important to use a stud finder to ensure stability and leave enough space to accommodate different pan sizes. Some people also use magnetic hangers, which are easy to install and can hold up to 10-inch skillets. It is important to note that cast iron pans can leave oil stains on the wall over time, so it is recommended to keep the pans from touching the wall.
Using a Rack
Another option for storing cast iron pans is to use a rack. Racks can be placed on a counter or in a cabinet and can be used for vertical or horizontal storage, depending on the available space. There are various sizes, styles, and materials available on the market to suit different needs and preferences.
Both hanging and rack storage methods provide easy access to cast iron pans, which is crucial due to their weight.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can stack cast iron pans. They are pretty indestructible and you can treat them like a big hunk of iron. However, some people like to put a protective layer in between them, such as a paper towel, a folded cloth, a cheap cork table mat, or a piece of paper bag.
A protective layer can prevent the pans from sticking together, keep the cooking surfaces clean, and prevent rust from forming.
Some alternatives to stacking cast iron pans include hanging them on a wall with hooks or screws, using magnetic hangers, or investing in a storage rack.
Avoid dropping the pans into each other and avoid environments that promote corrosion, such as storing them in a humid climate or putting them away wet.
