The Care And Cleaning Of Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron: A Step-By-Step Guide

Le Creuset's enameled cast iron pans are durable and timeless, with a non-stick enamel coating that makes them easy to clean. While they are technically dishwasher-safe, hand-washing is recommended for longevity. To clean your Le Creuset pan, first, let it cool completely before cleaning to avoid cracks. Then, use a silicone or plastic scraper to remove any stuck-on food bits. Wash the pan in warm soapy water with a non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth. If there is rust on the rim, clean it with a baking soda paste and season it with vegetable oil to prevent the rust from returning. For stubborn burnt-on food or stains, there are several methods you can try, including dry or wet scrubbing with baking soda, soaking in warm soapy water, or using a mixture of baking soda and water or hydrogen peroxide. It is important to avoid using steel wool or metal scrapers, as these can cause scratches and make food stick. With proper care and maintenance, your Le Creuset enameled cast iron pan will last for decades.

Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to wash in warm soapy water

When cleaning your Le Creuset enameled cast iron pan, always let the pan cool down completely before washing it. Filling a hot pan with cold water can cause cracks. Once the pan has cooled, fill it with warm water and a mild dish soap. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to gently wash the pan. Avoid steel wool or metal scrubbers, as these can cause scratches that will make food stick to the pan. If there are stuck-on food bits, use a plastic or silicone scraper to loosen them before washing. For stubborn burnt-on food, try one of the following methods:

• Dry-scrub the pan with baking soda. Sprinkle a damp dishcloth with baking soda and scrub the pan. The baking soda will lift the food without harming the enameled finish.
• Wet-scrub with baking soda. Add 2 cups of water and 1/4 cup of baking soda to the pan and place it on the stove. Heat the mixture until it boils, then allow it to cool. Use a plastic scraper to remove the food.
• Soak the pan in warm soapy water for several hours, then use a plastic scraper to remove the stuck-on food.

Remember to dry the pan thoroughly with a microfiber cloth after washing to prevent water spots and keep your Le Creuset looking brand new!

Avoid using steel wool or metal scrapers

When cleaning your Le Creuset enameled cast iron pan, it is important to avoid using steel wool or metal scrapers. While it may be tempting to reach for these tools to tackle stubborn stains or burnt-on food, they can actually cause more harm than good.

Steel wool and metal scrapers are abrasive and can scratch the enamel coating on your Le Creuset cookware. These scratches may seem minor, but over time they can build up and make your pan more susceptible to sticking and rusting. The enamel coating is what gives Le Creuset cookware its non-stick properties, so it is important to take care of it.

Instead of steel wool or metal scrapers, opt for non-abrasive tools like plastic or silicone scrapers and sponges. These will effectively remove food bits and stains without damaging the enamel. For stuck-on food, you can also try soaking your pan in warm soapy water or using a baking soda paste.

Another reason to avoid steel wool and metal scrapers is that small particles can break off and get into your food. This is not only unpleasant but can also be dangerous if ingested. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your cooking equipment.

Finally, steel wool and metal scrapers can be harsh on your hands and can cause scratches or even cuts if you're not careful. It's just not worth the risk when there are gentler, more effective methods for cleaning your Le Creuset enameled cast iron pan.

Don't plunge a hot pan into cold water

When cleaning your Le Creuset enameled cast iron pan, it is important to remember not to plunge a hot pan into cold water. This is because a rapid change in temperature can cause thermal shock, which can be damaging to your pan. Thermal shock can cause warping and cracking, which will ruin your pan.

Metals expand when heated and shrink when cooled. This phenomenon is called thermal expansion and thermal contraction. For example, a 10-inch fry pan will grow to approximately 10.05 inches when heated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and it will shrink back to 10 inches when it cools back down to room temperature. While these changes are too small to be seen, they are important to manage when cooking.

If a hot pan is allowed to cool slowly, it will return to its original condition. However, if it is subjected to repeated quenching in cold water, there is a risk of damage. The pan may become warped, with an uneven bottom that will no longer sit evenly on the stovetop. The warping can also cause hot and cold spots, affecting the pan's ability to heat and cook evenly.

To avoid thermal shock and potential damage to your Le Creuset enameled cast iron pan, always let it cool down naturally before cleaning. Be patient and allow the pan to cool to room temperature before washing it in warm, soapy water. This will help ensure the longevity of your cookware and maintain its original condition.

Use baking soda to remove burnt-on food

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help lift burnt-on food from your Le Creuset enameled cast iron pan without damaging the finish. Here are some methods you can try:

Dry-scrub with baking soda

Sprinkle a damp dishcloth with a bit of dry baking soda and scrub the area. The baking soda will act as a gentle abrasive to lift the food without harming the enameled finish.

Wet-scrub with baking soda

Add 2 cups of water and 1/4 cup of baking soda to the pan, then place it on the stovetop and heat until the mixture boils. Allow the water to cool, then use a plastic scraper to remove the food.

Baking soda paste

Create a paste using a couple of big spoonfuls of baking soda and a few drops of warm water. Evenly coat the stained areas and let it sit for a couple of hours or overnight. Use a nylon scourer or a sponge with some hot soapy water to remove any leftover stains. Rinse and dry the pan.

Boil water method

Fill your pan halfway or just enough to cover the stained area with warm water and a small amount of dish soap. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the hot water sit in the pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula (not metal utensils) to scrape off the stuck-on food. Pour out the water and let the pan cool before handling. Finally, use a soft nylon brush or a textured sponge with some hot soapy water to clean any remaining stains. Dry the pan completely with paper towels or a dishcloth.

Try a Le Creuset cleaner

Le Creuset itself offers a cleaning solution for its enameled cast iron cookware. The Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Cleaner costs $25, which may seem expensive, but you only need a small amount for each use, so the bottle will last a long time.

The cleaner is simple to use: just apply the cleaner, rinse with water, and wipe the pan clean. It works on both sand-interior and matte black interior cast iron.

Customers have left positive reviews for the product, saying that it makes their cookware look brand new again, and leaves a lovely shine. They also mention that it takes very little time and requires minimal elbow grease to do a great job.

However, some customers feel that the cleaner is not worth the price, and that it is a waste of money. Opinions are mixed on the quality of the cleaner, with some saying it works great, and others saying it didn't clean stains as well as they expected.

Frequently asked questions