How to Care for Your Cast Iron

Have you ever wondered how to care for your cast iron pan? Below is your answer to keeping your pan in perfect condition!

I love my cast iron pan, I mean, seriously love it. I use it for just about everything! Cast iron pans have been a staple in kitchens for centuries and are still beloved today by home cooks and chefs alike. They have exceptional heat retention, durability, and versatility – I mean what other pan can you bake cornbread and fry pork chops in???

All that being said, taking care of your cast iron is a must to keep it in tip top shape. Proper care will maintain its non-stick surface, prevent rusting, and ensure its longevity. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps of proper cast iron care to help you enjoy cooking with these timeless pieces for years to come!

Seasoning: The Foundation of Cast Iron Care

Seasoning is the process of treating your cast iron pan with oil to create a natural non-stick surface and protect it from rust. Follow these steps to season your pan:

Clean the Pan: If your pan is brand new, wash it with warm water and mild soap to remove any manufacturing residue.
Dry Thoroughly: After washing, dry the pan completely to prevent water from causing rust.
Apply Oil: Rub a thin layer of neutral oil (I personally like avocado oil) all over the pan, including the cooking surface, handle, and exterior.
Bake: Place the pan upside-down in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and let it bake for about an hour. This process polymerizes the oil, forming a natural non-stick coating.
Cool and Repeat: Allow the pan to cool inside the oven before removing it. For optimal results, repeat the seasoning process a few times, especially if your pan is new or has lost its seasoning.

Daily Care: Keeping Your Pan in Tip-Top Shape

Proper daily care can help maintain your cast iron’s seasoning and prevent rust. Here’s what to do after each use:

Cool Down: Let the pan cool down on the stovetop. Avoid placing it in cold water while it’s still hot, as sudden temperature changes can cause it to crack.
Wipe Clean: Use a paper towel or a cloth to wipe away food residue. For stubborn bits, use a soft brush or nylon scrubber to avoid damaging the seasoning. Resist the urge to bust out a metal scrubbie or scraper as this will remove the seasoning you worked so hard to build up.
Avoid Soap When Possible: This is a very controversial topic, but according to the Lodge Cast Iron website it’s okay to use a little soap when needed. However, while it’s tempting to reach for soap at every wash, it’s best to avoid it when possible as it can strip away the seasoning. If needed, use hot water and a gentle scrub.
Dry Completely: After cleaning, place the pan on a burner set to low heat for a minute or two to ensure it’s completely dry.
Apply a Thin Coat of Oil: To maintain the seasoning, lightly coat the cooking surface with a thin layer of oil after each use. This helps prevent moisture from causing rust.

Dealing with Rust and Stubborn Stains

If you notice rust or stubborn stains on your cast iron pan, don’t worry. You can still salvage it with these steps:

Scrub: Use a scrub brush or steel wool to gently remove the rust or stain. This might also remove some of the seasoning, so be prepared to re-season the pan.
Re-Season: After scrubbing, re-season the pan by following the initial seasoning process outlined earlier.
Prevent Future Rust: To avoid future rusting, ensure your pan is completely dry before storing it. If storing for an extended period, consider placing a paper towel or cloth inside to absorb any potential moisture.

Storing Your Cast Iron Pan

Proper storage is crucial to maintaining your cast iron pan’s condition:

Dry Thoroughly: Before storing, ensure your pan is completely dry to prevent rust.
Oil Coat: Apply a light coat of oil to the cooking surface before storing. This provides an additional layer of protection against moisture.
Stacking: If you need to stack your cast iron pans, place a paper towel or cloth between them to prevent scratching the seasoning.

Caring for your cast iron pan might require a bit of effort, but the results are well worth it. With proper seasoning, regular maintenance, and the right storage techniques, your cast iron pan can become a treasured kitchen tool that lasts for generations. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your cast iron pan continues to provide superb cooking experiences for years to come. Check out this post on the 5 Cast Iron Pans I Can’t Live Without.