Cast Iron Clutter: Smart Storage Solutions For Your Pans

Cast iron pans are a great addition to your kitchen, but they can be tough to store. They are heavy and bulky, and prone to rusting if exposed to moisture. So, it's important to find a storage solution that keeps them dry, organised, and within easy reach for your next cooking session. Here are some ideas to get you started:

- Hang them on a wall: Install sturdy hooks or screws into a stud in your wall, making sure they're not too close to the sink to avoid moisture.

- Display them on a rack: Invest in a storage rack that can hold the weight of your cast iron pans. These can be freestanding or placed inside a cabinet.

- Store them in a dry cabinet or cupboard: Ensure your cabinets are large and strong enough to hold the weight of your cast iron.

- Keep them on the stovetop: This is a convenient option if you use your cast iron regularly, but it might get in the way if you only use it occasionally.

- Put them in the oven: The oven is one of the driest places in your kitchen, making it a great spot for cast iron storage. Just remember to remove them before preheating!

Hanging on a rack over the stove

Hanging cast iron pans on a rack over the stove is a great way to keep your cookware within easy reach. It also saves cabinet space and showcases your collection as functional art. Here are some tips to achieve this:

First, consider the weight of your cast iron pans. Hanging them over the stove means that the rack must be sturdy enough to bear the weight. Choose a rack with a strong and durable material such as iron piping or a commercial grid wall. Ensure that the rack is securely attached to the wall by screwing it into the wall studs. If you're handy, you can build a custom rack like Laura and her husband, who screwed thick pieces of old barn wood to the sheetrock and used plain screws as hooks for their cast iron cookware.

Next, think about the arrangement of your pans. You can hang them in size order or create a fun pattern. Before drilling holes and attaching hooks, lay out your pans on the floor to determine the best configuration. This will help you visualize the placement and ensure that the handles don't rest directly on the wall, preventing oil stains.

When hanging your pans, make sure there is enough space between them to accommodate their different sizes. You can use various hooks or even 'S' hooks, which are great for hanging pans directly on the wall, as Beth did with her storage solution. If you're concerned about the weight, consider using a wooden panel to hold the hooks, adding stability and a decorative touch.

Finally, don't forget to maintain your cast iron pans. Cast iron is susceptible to rust, so ensure the area has good airflow. Regularly clean and dry your pans, and consider applying a thin layer of oil to prevent rust and create a mini re-seasoning.

By following these steps, you'll have a functional and attractive display of your cast iron pans hanging over your stove, making cooking a breeze!

Using a stud finder to install hooks or screws

Cast iron pans can be tricky to store, but displaying them on a wall is a great way to keep them in easy-to-access spots. To install hooks or screws to hang your cast iron pans, you can use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Get a stud finder: Stud finders are small handheld devices that can detect the wooden framework behind your walls. You can purchase one online or at your local hardware store.
• Locate the studs: Hold the stud finder against the wall and turn it on. Move it across the surface until it beeps, indicating the presence of a stud. Mark the location with a pencil. Typically, studs are placed 16 inches (41 cm) apart, but this may vary depending on your home's architecture.
• Drill a hole: Change the drill bit to a size slightly smaller than the screw that came with your hook. Start drilling slowly, then increase the speed once you've drilled through the wall. Drill to a depth that matches your screw length. Pre-drilling is optional but can help prevent wall chipping and stud splitting.
• Install the hook: Feed the screw into the hole on your hook and line it up with the hole you drilled. Use a screwdriver to tighten the hook onto the wall, ensuring it faces the right way up.
• Test the hook: Check the maximum weight capacity of your hook before hanging anything on it to avoid accidentally pulling it out of the wall.

If you prefer not to drill into your walls, consider using adhesive hooks. These can be purchased at convenience stores and are suitable for hanging lighter items. For heavier cast iron pans, it's best to screw your hooks into the studs or use wall anchors for additional support.

Stacking with paper towels in between

Stacking your cast iron pans is a great way to save space, but it's important to do it correctly to avoid damaging your cookware. The key is to place a protective barrier, such as a paper towel, between each pan to prevent scratches and absorb moisture. This method is also useful if you stack other types of cookware on top of your cast iron.

When stacking cast iron pans, always use a single paper towel between each pan to prevent metal-on-metal contact. This simple step is an extension of proper cast iron care and maintenance. By reducing friction, the paper towel prevents scratches or damage to the inside of your pans. It also absorbs any moisture that could lead to rusting, protecting the seasoned surface you've worked hard to maintain.

You can use two paper towels between each pan if you want to be extra cautious. Additionally, you don't need to change the paper towel every time you use one of the pans. As long as the paper towel remains clean and intact, it can be reused. However, if the paper towel becomes dirty or discoloured, it's a good idea to replace it with a fresh one.

If you don't have paper towels, you can use pieces of cardboard as an alternative. This method ensures that your cast iron pans stay in optimal condition while being stored efficiently. It's a cost-effective and space-saving solution for organizing your cast iron cookware collection.

Storing in a dry cabinet

Storing cast iron in a dry cabinet is a great option, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure the cabinet is large enough to accommodate the bulky size of cast iron cookware and that the shelving units are strong enough to support the weight, especially if you plan on storing multiple pieces. It's also important to check for leaks and ensure that the cabinet is clean and dry before storing your cast iron.

To prepare your cast iron for storage, start by cleaning it thoroughly to remove any food particles. Rinse your cast iron after each use, but avoid soaking it or letting it air-dry, as this can lead to rust. Instead, dry it off with a paper towel or a dish towel, and consider placing it on the stove to burn off any excess moisture. You can also add a thin layer of vegetable oil to the cast iron after cleaning and drying it to prevent rust.

When storing your cast iron in the cabinet, place paper towels between the pans to protect them from scratches and to absorb any excess moisture. This is especially important if you're stacking multiple pans on top of each other. Additionally, try to store your cast iron on the lower shelves of the cabinet to avoid any accidents, as cast iron can be quite heavy.

If you're looking for alternative storage options, you can also consider storing your cast iron on the stovetop, in the oven, or by hanging it on a wall. Just make sure to keep it away from moisture and to always store it clean and dry to prevent rust.

Hanging on a custom-made display wall

Hanging your cast iron pans on a custom-made display wall is a great way to show off your collection and make a feature of your cookware. It's also a practical solution, keeping your pans accessible and promoting air circulation to prevent rust.

If you have an open wall in or near your kitchen, you can create a display wall with hooks or screws. First, decide whether you want to attach your hooks or screws directly into the wall or install a wooden panel to add stability and a decorative touch. If you're drilling into drywall, you'll need to use a stud finder to locate the studs and ensure your display is securely attached—cast iron is heavy! Space the hooks or screws apart to accommodate different pan sizes. You could also use a magnetic hanger, which can support up to a 10-inch cast-iron skillet.

When arranging your pans, consider the handles—you may want them to rest on the board beneath to protect your walls. If you have a particularly cherished pan, give it centre stage! You could also mix things up by hanging a copper pot among your cast iron or adding millwork to your boards for a cute touch.

If you're feeling extra creative, you could make a statement piece like Beth, the Senior Designer at Lodge Cast Iron. She crafted a display from barnwood, industrial-style black iron piping, floor flange brackets, and 'S' hooks. It hangs right next to her stove for easy access.

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