Cast Iron Pan Cleaning: Chain Mail Scrubbing

Cast iron pans are highly versatile and can be used for searing, baking, and frying. They are also extremely durable and can last for generations. However, they require proper maintenance to ensure their longevity. One of the most important steps in cast iron pan care is keeping it clean. A chain mail scrubber is an effective and popular tool for cleaning cast iron pans. It helps remove stubborn baked-on food residue and charred bits without damaging the pan's seasoning. The chain mail creates a textured surface that allows new seasoning to adhere better, resulting in a stronger and more resilient seasoning over time. To use a chain mail scrubber, simply wash the pan with water (and soap if needed), scrub it with the chain mail in a circular motion using firm pressure, dry the pan on low heat, and then apply a thin layer of oil.

How to clean a cast iron pan with a chain mail scrubber

Keeping your cast iron pan clean is one of the most important steps in maintaining its longevity. A chain mail scrubber is a great tool to clean your cast iron pan and develop resilient seasoning. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean a cast iron pan with a chain mail scrubber:

If your pan is relatively clean:

• Remove any leftover food with a paper towel.
• Wash the pan with water and gently scrub it with the chain mail in a circular motion, applying firm pressure.
• Dry the pan thoroughly over low heat on the stovetop to prevent rusting.

If your pan has a lot of gunk on it:

• Wash the pan with warm water (you can use a small amount of dish soap if needed).
• While the pan is still wet, scrub it with the chain mail in a circular motion, using gentle but firm pressure. Spend a little more time on areas with burnt or charred food.
• Dry the pan on the stovetop over low heat.
• Apply a thin layer of oil and wipe it with a paper towel. The oil will help build up the seasoning the next time you pre-heat the pan.

It is important to clean your chain mail scrubber regularly. You can either run it under water to loosen any stuck-on food or put it in the dishwasher. Additionally, make sure to dry your cast iron pan completely before storing it to prevent rusting.

How to care for your cast iron pan

Cast iron pans are versatile and durable, and with the right care, they can last for generations. Here are some detailed instructions on how to care for and maintain your cast iron pan:

Cleaning Your Pan:

• Wipe Out Excess Food: After cooking, use a paper towel to wipe out any excess food or oil from your pan.
• Wash with Water: Fill your sink with warm to hot water and wash your pan. Use a mild dish soap if needed, especially if you've cooked something very oily. Avoid using abrasive sponges or scrub brushes as they can damage the pan's seasoning. Instead, opt for a soft sponge or cloth.
• Scrub with Chain Mail: To remove stubborn stuck-on food or charred residue, use a chain mail scrubber. Its rounded metal rings provide a gentle yet effective cleaning experience without damaging the pan's seasoning. Scrub the pan in a circular motion with gentle to firm pressure, spending more time on areas with burnt-on food.
• Dry Thoroughly: After washing, dry your pan thoroughly. You can place it on the stovetop over low heat or in an oven at a low temperature to ensure complete dryness. This step is crucial to prevent rusting.
• Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: Once dry, apply a thin layer of neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, to the pan's surface, including the handle. Use a paper towel or clean rag to rub the oil evenly, ensuring the entire pan is coated.

Maintaining Your Pan:

• Build Up Seasoning: Each time you cook with your pan, you build up its natural seasoning. The more you use your pan, the stronger and more resilient its seasoning will become. Cooking fatty foods like bacon also helps develop a stronger seasoning.
• Re-season When Needed: If your pan's seasoning wears down, causing food to stick, it's time to re-season. Follow the steps outlined in the "How to re-season cast iron" section below.
• Store Properly: Always ensure your pan is bone dry before storing it away. Cast iron is susceptible to rusting, so proper drying is essential.

Deep Cleaning and Troubleshooting:

If your pan has a lot of gunk:

• Wash with Soap and Water: For heavily soiled pans, start by washing them with warm to hot water and a mild dish soap. You can use a small amount of soap, especially if you've cooked oily foods.
• Scrub with Chain Mail: Use a chain mail scrubber to remove burnt-on food residue. Apply gentle to firm pressure in a circular motion, spending more time on stubborn areas.
• Dry on Stovetop: Place the pan on the stovetop over low heat to ensure it's completely dry.
• Apply Oil: Finish by applying a thin layer of oil to the pan's surface, creating a protective coating.

Removing Rust:

If your pan develops rust, don't worry! Simply use the rough side of a dry Scotch-Brite sponge to gently rub off the rust. You can add a little water and a drop of dish soap if needed. Rinse the pan, dry it thoroughly, and then re-season it.

Removing Severe Rust:

For pans with extensive rust, create a solution of equal parts distilled white vinegar and water in a container large enough to submerge the pan. Submerge the pan in the solution for up to 24 hours, checking periodically. Remove the pan when most of the rust has been removed or loosened. Rinse it with running water, then scrub any remaining rust with a stainless steel scrubber and a slurry of Bar Keepers Friend and water. Finally, wash, dry, and re-season your pan.

How to re-season cast iron:

• Preheat Oven: Place your pan in the oven and preheat it to 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Remove and Oil Pan: After 5-10 minutes, carefully remove the pan from the oven using oven mitts. Use a paper towel or clean rag to rub a small amount of oil all over the pan's surface, including the handle.
• Wipe Off Excess Oil: Use a separate, clean towel to wipe off any excess oil. The pan should look nearly dry.
• Bake the Pan: Place the pan upside down in the preheated oven and bake for one hour. Then, turn off the oven and let the pan cool completely inside. This process may create light smoke, so ensure proper ventilation.
• Repeat as Needed: Depending on your desired level of seasoning, you may need to repeat the above steps several times. A well-seasoned pan should be sufficiently nonstick, allowing you to fry an egg without sticking.

When to use soap on your cast iron pan

While cast iron pans are known for being tough, there are still some things to keep in mind when it comes to cleaning and maintaining them. One of the most common questions about cast iron care is whether or not you can use soap. The answer is yes, you can use a small amount of soap to clean your cast iron pan. However, it is important to note that large amounts of soap can strip the seasoning off your pan. Therefore, it is recommended to only use soap when necessary and to re-season your pan as needed.

When it comes to cleaning your cast iron pan, the first step is to use a pan scraper or a chain mail scrubber to remove any stuck-on food residue. If your pan has a lot of gunk on it, you can fill it with some warm water and use the scraper or scrubber to remove the food residue. You can also add a small amount of soap if needed. After removing the food residue, dry the pan promptly and thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. It is important to make sure that your cast iron pan is completely dry to prevent rusting. Once the pan is dry, you can apply a light layer of cooking oil or seasoning spray to the surface. Use a paper towel to wipe away any excess oil.

It is worth noting that while soap can be used on cast iron pans, it is not necessary. Many people choose to simply wipe out the pan with a paper towel and heat it up to dry it, killing off any bacteria. Additionally, it is important to avoid using steel wool or metal scrubbers to clean your cast iron pan as they can damage the seasoning. Instead, a nylon brush or sponge can be used along with the soap.

In summary, while soap can be used on cast iron pans, it should be used in moderation and only when necessary. The key to maintaining a cast iron pan is to keep it dry, as rusting is a common issue. By following these simple steps, you can keep your cast iron pan in good condition for years to come.

How to dry your cast iron pan

Drying your cast iron pan is a crucial step in the cleaning process. Here is a detailed guide on how to dry your cast iron pan effectively:

• After cleaning your cast iron pan, it is important to dry it thoroughly. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe away any remaining water or moisture from the pan's surface. Ensure that you dry both the interior and exterior of the pan.
• Place the pan on the stovetop over low heat. This step is essential to ensure complete drying. Allow the pan to sit on the stovetop for a few minutes until all the moisture has evaporated.
• Once the pan is dry, it is crucial to remoisturize it with a thin layer of oil or fat. This step helps maintain the seasoning and prevents rust. Use a cloth or paper towel to rub a small amount of shortening, lard, bacon grease, or a neutral high-heat cooking oil onto the pan's surface.
• Return the pan to the stovetop and heat it until the fat just starts to smoke. This step helps polymerize the oil, creating a protective layer on the pan's surface.
• Turn off the heat and allow the pan to cool completely before putting it away. The pan should feel dry to the touch and not seem oily or sticky.
• It is recommended to use a separate towel or cloth specifically for drying cast iron, as it can stain fabrics.
• Always ensure your cast iron pan is completely dry before storing it. Store it in a dry place with the lid off to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rust.

By following these steps, you will effectively dry and maintain your cast iron pan, ensuring its longevity and non-stick properties.

How to season your cast iron pan

Seasoning a cast-iron pan is a simple process that will ensure your cookware lasts for generations. Seasoning creates a hard, practically non-stick surface that protects the metal from rusting and prevents food from sticking to it. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to season your cast-iron pan:

Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Pan

Give your cast-iron pan a good scrub with warm, soapy water. This is especially important if it's a new pan, as you want to remove any residue or impurities from the manufacturing process or transportation. Make sure to dry the pan thoroughly after washing. You can place the pan on a stovetop flame for a minute or two to ensure all surface moisture is gone.

Step 2: Rub with Oil

Using a paper towel or a clean cloth, rub the pan all over, inside and out, with a thin layer of cooking oil. This includes the bottom and handle of the pan. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted shortening are recommended, but any cooking oil or fat will work. Be sure to wipe away any excess oil so that the pan feels practically dry to the touch. Using too much oil can cause your pan to become sticky.

Step 3: Heat in the Oven

Place the oiled pan upside down in a preheated oven. The ideal temperature is between 450°F and 500°F (some sources suggest 350°F as an alternative). Place a baking sheet or aluminium foil on the rack below to catch any oil drips. Leave the pan in the oven for about an hour. This process, known as polymerization, will cause the oil to bond to the metal, creating a hard, protective coating.

Step 4: Cool the Pan

Turn off the oven and let the pan cool down completely before removing it. Cast iron retains heat for a long time, so be patient and don't touch the pan until it has cooled to room temperature.

Step 5: Repeat as Needed

If your pan is new or has a stripped or rusty surface, you may need to repeat the above steps multiple times to build up a strong layer of seasoning. A well-seasoned cast-iron pan will have a smooth, jet-black finish.

Maintenance Tips:

• Cooking with oil in your cast-iron pan will help maintain and enhance the seasoning over time.
• Avoid cooking acidic foods (like tomatoes) or using excessive heat, as these can break down the seasoning.
• Avoid using abrasive utensils or scouring pads, as they can remove the seasoning.
• After each use, rub a small amount of oil into your pan to ensure the seasoning remains intact.

Frequently asked questions