The Best Oils And Towels To Wipe Your Cast Iron Pan

There are several ways to wipe out a cast iron pan, and the method you choose depends on how soiled the pan is. If the pan is lightly soiled, you can use a paper towel or cloth to wipe it down with a little vegetable oil or shortening. If there are stuck-on food bits, you can use a sponge to scrub the pan with water, or add kosher salt to the pan and scrub with a damp sponge. For stubborn bits, you can try boiling a bit of water in the pan and then wiping it out or scrubbing again. If you're going to use soap, make sure it's mild, as abrasive cleaners may strip the pan's seasoning.

Paper towels vs cloth

When it comes to cleaning cast iron pans, there are two main options for wiping them out: paper towels and cloth. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision of which to use ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Paper towels are often recommended for cleaning cast iron pans. They are convenient and disposable, making them a quick and easy option for wiping out excess oil or grease. However, they can be wasteful and expensive, especially if multiple paper towels are needed each time the pan is used. Cheap paper towels may also leave behind bits of paper or lint on the pan, requiring an additional cleaning step.

Cloth, on the other hand, offers a reusable and cost-effective alternative to paper towels. Options include lint-free cloths, tea towels, old t-shirts, and kitchen towels. Cloth can be washed and used repeatedly, reducing waste. However, it is important to note that cloth designated for cast iron pans should not be washed with other items, as this may affect the pan's seasoning. Cloth may also require more effort than simply throwing away a used paper towel.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to use paper towels or cloth comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the individual. Both options have their pros and cons, and some people may find that a combination of the two works best for them. The key is to find a routine that works for you and stick with it, as consistency is important when caring for cast iron pans.

How to clean a lightly soiled pan

To clean a lightly soiled cast iron pan, start by rinsing the pan with hot water and a sponge to remove food residue. It is important to clean the pan while it is still warm, as this will prevent stuck-on food from hardening as it cools. Do not use cold water, as the drastic temperature change could cause the pan to warp or crack.

Although opinions vary on whether soap can be used to clean cast iron, it is generally considered safe to use a small amount of mild dish soap, as long as the pan is well-seasoned. Lodge, a popular manufacturer of cast iron pans, endorses the use of a small amount of soap. If you do use soap, be sure to thoroughly rinse the pan afterward, as soap will remove the seasoning.

After rinsing the pan, dry it promptly and thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. You can also place the pan over low heat on the stovetop or in an oven set to 200-300°F (93-149°C) to ensure all the moisture evaporates. Cast iron is susceptible to rust, so it is important to get the pan completely dry before storing it. Once the pan is dry, you can wipe it down with a small amount of cooking oil or seasoning spray to maintain the seasoning.

How to clean a heavily soiled pan

To clean a heavily soiled cast-iron pan, you'll need to be careful not to damage the seasoning—the oil or fat that's baked into the pan over time, which gives it a great non-stick quality.

First, fill the pan with enough water to cover any stuck-on food. Bring this to a boil on the stovetop. If the food doesn't come off on its own after a couple of minutes, use a wooden spatula to gently scrape it up.

Next, gently scrub the pan using mild dish soap, hot water, and a non-abrasive sponge or scrub brush. Be sure to use a small amount of soap, as too much can strip the pan's seasoning. Rinse the pan with hot water and dry it thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.

Finally, to ensure the pan is bone dry before storing, place it over low heat on the stovetop or in an oven preheated to 200-300°F for 5-10 minutes. Once it has cooled, wipe the pan with a paper towel or clean rag and a very thin layer of neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable oil.

How to clean cast iron with soap

While some people advise against using soap on cast iron, it is generally accepted that a small amount of soap won't ruin your pan. In fact, even Lodge, the iconic cast iron brand, says that it's fine to use soap. However, there are a few important steps to follow to ensure your cast iron remains in good condition.

Firstly, never let the pan soak in water as this can cause rust. Start by washing your cast iron by hand with a small amount of mild dish soap. Use a hard-bristle brush or the scrubbing side of a sponge to loosen any food and debris. Rinse the pan and dry it immediately with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.

Next, heat the pan over a stove on medium-low heat to remove any remaining water. Turn off the heat and pour a small amount (1/2 teaspoon) of high-temperature oil, such as flaxseed, vegetable, or canola oil, into the pan. Use a paper towel to spread the oil across the inside and outside of the pan.

Let the pan cool completely, then wipe away any excess oil and store it until you're ready to use it again.

If you have any stuck-on bits that won't come off, loosen them by adding some water to the pan and heating it over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Then, use a hard-bristle brush to scrape the bits loose.

It's important to note that while soap won't ruin your cast iron, abrasive scrubbing can remove the seasoning. Therefore, it's recommended to use a pan scraper or a chainmail scrubber to remove any stuck-on food. If you do accidentally remove the seasoning, it's not the end of the world—simply re-season your pan and continue using it.

How to maintain a cast iron skillet

Maintaining a cast iron skillet is a straightforward process, but it requires care and attention. Here is a detailed guide on how to keep your cast iron skillet in top condition:

Cleaning:

After each use, gently clean your skillet with warm water and a very small amount of soap, if needed. Avoid using abrasive metal scrubs as these can damage the skillet's surface. Instead, opt for the firm scrubbing side of a two-sided sponge or a nylon scrubbing brush. If you have stuck-on food, fill the skillet with a small amount of water and simmer for a few minutes to loosen the residue. You can also use a pan scraper to remove stubborn food particles. Once you have finished washing and rinsing the skillet, ensure that you dry it thoroughly with a towel or lint-free cloth.

Removing Rust:

If your cast iron skillet has developed rust, don't panic. Simply scour the rusty areas with warm, soapy water and steel wool. Rinse and dry the skillet thoroughly before applying a thin, even layer of cooking oil to the entire surface, inside and out. Place the skillet upside down on the top rack of the oven, with a baking sheet or aluminium foil on the rack below to catch any drips. Bake at a high temperature (around 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit) for an hour. Allow the skillet to cool, and repeat the process if necessary until the skillet has a matte black finish.

Seasoning:

Seasoning your cast iron skillet is essential to creating a non-stick surface and protecting it from rust. To season your skillet, start by preheating your oven to around 300-500 degrees Fahrenheit. Place some foil on the bottom rack to catch any drips. Heat the skillet in the oven for about 10 minutes, then remove it and coat the entire surface with a thin layer of vegetable oil, shortening, lard, or bacon grease. Return the skillet to the oven for another 10 minutes, then remove and pour out any excess oil. Finally, place the skillet back in the oven for an additional hour. Turn off the oven and let the skillet cool before removing it. The more often you repeat this process, the better the seasoning will be.

Daily Upkeep:

After each use, clean your skillet gently with water and a small amount of soap, if necessary. Dry it thoroughly with a towel, then return it to a warm oven for about 10 minutes to ensure it is completely dry. Remove the skillet from the oven and coat the entire surface with a thin layer of neutral oil, such as canola or grapeseed oil. The oil should be added while the skillet is still warm so that it can properly bond with the surface. Finally, store your cast iron skillet in a dry place.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your cast iron skillet remains in excellent condition for years to come.

Frequently asked questions