The Best Way To Clean Your Skillet Pan

Cast-iron skillets are a must-have for any home cook, but keeping them clean can be a challenge. The key to maintaining a cast-iron skillet is to clean it promptly after use, while it is still warm, and to avoid using soap, steel wool, or the dishwasher, as these can strip the pan's seasoning. Instead, use a non-abrasive brush or scrubber and hot water to remove any stuck-on food, and then dry the skillet thoroughly. Finally, apply a light coat of oil to the pan to prevent rusting and maintain its non-stick properties. With proper care, a cast-iron skillet can last a lifetime.

How to Clean a Skillet Pan

Rinse with warm water

Rinsing your skillet with warm water is an important step in the cleaning process. It helps to dislodge any clingy food scraps, such as eggs, and prevents them from hardening and sticking to the pan. Using warm water is key here; never use cold water as it won't be as effective at removing food residue.

You don't want to burn your hands, so make sure the pan has cooled down a little before you start rinsing. If you're in a hurry, a glass of hot water poured into the pan while it's still on the stove will do the trick. Just be careful not to let the water cool too much before you start rinsing.

It's important to note that you should not soak your cast-iron skillet. Cast iron is not rust-proof, so minimise its contact with water. This means no dishwashers or long soaks in the sink! A quick rinse with warm water is all you need to dislodge any stubborn food scraps.

If plain warm water isn't doing the trick, you can move on to using a mild dish soap to help loosen those stubborn scraps. A little soapy water will reduce the elbow grease required to get your skillet sparkling clean.

Use soap and a scrubber

If your skillet is in need of a good scrub, you can use soap and a scrubber to get it clean. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, fill your sink with warm water—never cold. You don't want to use cold water as this can cause food scraps to harden and stick to your pan. If you're in a hurry, you can add a glass of hot water to the pan while it's still on the stove. Just be sure not to soak the pan or leave it in the sink, as this can cause rust.

Next, add a small amount of mild dish soap to the warm water. Contrary to popular belief, using soap now and then is perfectly fine and will help to loosen stubborn scraps of food. Use a brush, like a pan scraper or a nylon scrubbing brush, to scrub away any stuck-on food. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers like scouring pads or steel wool, as these can strip away the pan's seasoning.

Once your pan is clean, dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel. Leaving the pan to air-dry is not recommended, as this can lead to rusting. You can also dry the pan in a warm oven or on the stove over low heat.

Finally, apply a light coat of vegetable oil to the pan with a paper towel. This will help to reinforce the pan's seasoning. Be sure to use only a small amount of oil and blot any excess with another paper towel.

And that's it! Your skillet is now clean and ready to be stored away until its next use.

Dry with a cloth or paper towel

Drying your skillet is an important step in the cleaning process. Leaving your skillet to air dry can lead to rusting, so it's best to dry it with a cloth or paper towel. Make sure to thoroughly dry the skillet, removing all traces of moisture. You can also dry the skillet on the stove over low heat. This will ensure that the skillet is completely dry and prevent rusting.

After drying the skillet, it is important to oil it. Using a cloth or paper towel, apply a light coat of vegetable oil or cooking oil to the inside of the skillet. You can also oil the outside of the skillet if you wish. Buff the skillet to remove any excess oil and remove any residue. This will help to maintain the skillet's seasoning and prevent rust.

It is important to note that you should not leave the cast-iron skillet to air dry. The skillet should be dried promptly and thoroughly to prevent rusting. By following these steps, you can ensure that your cast-iron skillet is properly cleaned and maintained.

Additionally, it is recommended to season your cast-iron skillet after each use. This will help to create a protective varnish that keeps the pan non-stick. To season the skillet, apply a thin coat of oil to the whole pan, including the outside and handle. Then, bake the skillet upside down in the oven at 350°F for 1 hour. This will help to reinforce the seasoning and keep your skillet in good condition.

Apply a light coat of oil

After cleaning your skillet, it is important to apply a light coat of oil to the pan's surface to maintain the seasoning. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do this:

Firstly, ensure that you have thoroughly dried your skillet with a clean cloth or paper towel. It is important to remove all moisture before applying oil. Once dry, take a small amount of oil and use a cloth or paper towel to apply a light coat to the inside of the skillet. You can use vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, grapeseed oil, avocado oil, canola oil, or another oil with a high smoke point. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the pan, including the handle. You only need a thin coating of oil, so wipe away any excess.

Buff the pan with a cloth or paper towel to remove any remaining oil residue. The pan should now look dark and smooth, and there should be no oil residue left. Finally, allow the pan to cool completely before putting it away. Storing your skillet in a dry place will help prevent rust from forming.

Regularly oiling your skillet after cleaning will help maintain the seasoning and create a sleek, glossy finish on the inside of the pan. It is also a good idea to re-season your skillet from time to time, especially if it has patches of rust, looks dull, or has lost its non-stick coating.

Store in a dry place

Once your skillet pan is clean and dry, it's time to store it in a dry place. Here are some tips to ensure your pan stays in good condition:

• Choose a dry storage area: Select a dry cabinet, countertop, stovetop, or oven as your storage spot. Avoid areas with high moisture levels, such as under the sink, to prevent rusting.
• Use paper towels or cardboard: When stacking pans, separate them with paper towels or cardboard to prevent scratches and absorb moisture.
• Remove lids: Keep lids off the pans during storage to allow proper ventilation and prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rust.
• Regular maintenance: Ensure your pan is seasoned before use and re-season it if needed. Clean your pan promptly after each use and dry it thoroughly before putting it away.
• Avoid stacking: If possible, avoid stacking pans to prevent scratches and damage.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively store your skillet pan in a dry place and maintain its durability for years to come.

Frequently asked questions