Cleaning Cast Iron: Quick And Easy Tips

Cast iron pans are versatile, durable, and inexpensive, but they require a little extra care when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. In this article, we'll discuss the dos and don'ts of cleaning your cast iron pan, including how to remove stuck-on food, prevent rust, and maintain the non-stick coating, also known as seasoning. So, whether you're a seasoned pro or a cast-iron newbie, read on to learn the best ways to clean and care for your cast iron cookware.

Use hot water and a scrubbing brush, steel wool or a copper cleaning cloth

When cleaning a cast iron pan, it is important to remember not to soak the pan in water, as this can cause rust. Instead, use hot water and a scrubbing brush, steel wool, or a copper cleaning cloth to remove any food residue. If there is stuck-on food, you can try simmering a little water in the pan for 3-5 minutes and then using a pan scraper after the pan has cooled. You can also use a small amount of soap to clean your cast iron pan. While conventional wisdom says that soap strips seasoning from a pan, modern soap does not contain lye and will not damage the pan. However, if you prefer to avoid using soap, you can use coarse salt, a scrubber, and neutral oil to scrub away any mess.

After removing the food residue, rinse the pan with water and dry it thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. It is important to make sure that the pan is completely dry before putting it away, as any remaining water droplets can cause rust. Once the pan is dry, rub a light layer of cooking oil or seasoning spray onto the surface. Use a paper towel to wipe away any excess oil until no residue remains.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean and care for your cast iron pan, ensuring that it lasts for many years.

Avoid using soap

It is best to avoid using soap when cleaning a cast-iron pan. Although some sources say that a small amount of mild dish soap is acceptable, it is not necessary and can be avoided by using alternative methods.

Firstly, it is important to never soak your cast-iron pan in water as this can cause rusting. Instead, use a non-abrasive sponge or scrub brush to scrub the pan with hot water. If there are stuck-on food bits, add some kosher salt to the pan and scrub with a damp sponge. The salt acts as an abrasive cleaner without disturbing the seasoning. If there are still stubborn bits clinging to the pan, try bringing a small amount of water to a boil in the skillet and then use a pan scraper or wooden spatula to remove the food.

Once you have removed all the food residue, rinse the pan with water and then dry it thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. It is important to ensure that the pan is completely dry before storing it to prevent rusting. Finally, rub a very light layer of cooking oil or seasoning spray onto the surface of the pan. Use a paper towel to wipe the surface until no oil residue remains.

Dry the pan on the stove to prevent rusting

Drying your cast iron pan on the stove is an effective way to ensure that all moisture is gone and prevent rusting. After cleaning your cast iron pan, place it on the stove over medium-low heat until it is completely dry. This step is crucial because rust forms when iron or steel is exposed to water. By ensuring that your pan is thoroughly dried, you can prevent the formation of rust and extend the life of your cookware.

It is important to note that cast iron pans should not be soaked in water or left to air dry, as this can lead to rusting. Instead, dry your cast iron pan promptly and thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel after washing. If you accidentally leave your pan in water for too long and it develops rust, don't panic! You can remove the rust by using a little extra care, such as scrubbing with steel wool or a metal scrubber, and then reseasoning the pan.

Additionally, seasoning your cast iron pan can also help prevent rusting. After drying your pan on the stove, apply a thin layer of cooking oil or seasoning spray to the surface. Use a paper towel to wipe the surface until no oil residue remains. This process creates a protective layer that helps keep moisture away, preventing rust and making your pan increasingly non-stick.

By following these simple steps of drying your cast iron pan on the stove and seasoning it regularly, you can effectively prevent rusting and maintain the quality of your cookware.

Re-season the pan after cleaning

Re-seasoning a cast-iron pan is essential if you've washed it with soap or put it in the dishwasher. Seasoning creates a rust-resistant, non-stick surface, making your pan increasingly non-stick and less prone to rust. Here's how to re-season your pan:

Step 1: Clean and Dry the Pan

Start by rinsing your pan with warm water to remove any food residue. If your pan is new, a simple rinse will do. For a used pan, ensure all food residue is removed by scrubbing it with a brush, steel wool, or a copper cleaning cloth. You can also use kosher salt, a scrubber, and neutral oil to scrub away any residue. After cleaning, dry your pan thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. You can also place the pan on the stove and gently heat it until all the water evaporates.

Step 2: Apply a Thin Layer of Oil

Pour a small amount of cooking oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or flaxseed oil, onto a paper towel or clean cloth. Rub the oil evenly into the surface of the pan, ensuring a thin coating covers the entire pan. Wipe away any excess oil with a paper towel until no oil residue remains.

Step 3: Bake the Pan in the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the oiled pan upside down on the top rack of the oven. Place a baking sheet or aluminium foil on the bottom rack to catch any excess oil that may drip. Bake the pan for about 45 minutes to an hour. Then, turn off the oven and let the pan cool down slowly inside.

Step 4: Repeat if Necessary

If your pan was previously very rusty or you've stripped the seasoning with steel wool, you may need to repeat the seasoning process several times. Re-seasoning will help restore the classic black patina and create a smoother, harder finish.

Use coarse salt and oil to scrub away residue

To clean a cast iron pan, you can use coarse salt and oil to scrub away residue. This method is effective for removing stuck-on food residue from your cast iron pan. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, it is important to note that you should clean your cast iron pan while it is still hot, as stuck-on food hardens as it cools, making it more difficult to clean. So, begin by using a flat metal utensil or a pan scraper to remove any large chunks of food residue from the pan.

Next, sprinkle some coarse salt onto the surface of the pan. Kosher salt or regular table salt can be used for this purpose. The abrasion of the coarse salt will help to lift and loosen the stuck-on food residue.

Then, pour a small amount of neutral oil onto the pan. Vegetable oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, or any other food-safe cooking oil can be used. The oil will help to further loosen the residue and create a smoother surface for scrubbing.

After adding the salt and oil, use a dry towel or a kitchen brush to scrub away the residue. The dry towel has a larger surface area, amplifying the scrubbing effect. Work the salt and oil into the surface of the pan with the towel or brush until the residue is lifted away.

If any stubborn residue remains, you can try boiling a little water in the pan to further loosen it. Then, use a nylon scrubbing brush or a pan scraper to remove the remaining residue. Rinse the pan with warm water to remove any remaining salt, oil, and food particles.

Finally, thoroughly dry the pan with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. It is important to ensure that the pan is completely dry to prevent rusting. You can also place the pan on the stove and gently heat it until all the water evaporates.

Once the pan is dry, you can season it by rubbing a light layer of cooking oil onto the surface. Use a paper towel to wipe the surface until no oil residue remains. This will help maintain the cast iron pan's non-stick properties and prevent rusting.

Frequently asked questions