The Best And Worst Way To Clean Your Cast Iron Skillet

Cleaning a cast iron skillet properly is crucial for maintaining its longevity and cooking performance. The best way to clean it involves using minimal water and avoiding soap. After cooking, allow the skillet to cool slightly before wiping away any food residue with a paper towel or soft cloth. If necessary, rinse the skillet with hot water and use a non-abrasive scrub brush or a sponge to remove stubborn bits. It's important to dry the skillet thoroughly with a towel to prevent rusting. After drying, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or another cooking oil to the skillet's surface to maintain its seasoning and protect it from moisture. On the other hand, the worst way to clean a cast iron skillet is by using harsh detergents or soaking it in water for extended periods. These methods can strip the skillet's seasoning, leading to rust and a diminished non-stick surface. Avoid using metal scouring pads or placing the skillet in a dishwasher, as these can damage the skillet's protective layer. By following the proper cleaning techniques and avoiding common pitfalls, you can ensure that your cast iron skillet remains a trusted kitchen tool for many years.
Advertisement

What to avoid with your cast iron pan

To maintain your skillet in excellent condition, it's important to properly follow the steps of washing, drying, and seasoning. For instance, when cleaning your skillet, avoid using steel wool, as it can damage the seasoning and the surface of the pan. Instead, opt for a scrubbing pad, a plastic bristle brush, or a chainmail pad designed for removing stubborn food from cast iron. For particularly tough residues, a pan scraper can be used gently.

Additionally, refrain from submerging your cast iron skillet in water. This means you should not place it in the dishwasher or leave water in it to loosen stuck-on food. Prolonged exposure to water can lead to rust, which is difficult to remove and can harm your pan. Regardless of how dirty your skillet may be, the best practice is to clean it immediately after use. After the initial wash, using room temperature water with a small amount of soap should suffice, or you can rub coarse salt over the pan with a paper towel to eliminate stubborn bits of grime.

More maintenance tips

If you're having difficulty removing food that has stuck to your cast iron pan, try filling it with a little water and letting it simmer on the stove. After a few minutes, pour out the water and use a scraper to remove the food while the skillet is still warm; any leftover bits should come off easily. Since water can lead to rust, it's crucial to ensure your skillet is completely dry before storing it.

In addition to keeping it clean, there’s not much else you need to do to care for your skillet. You can season it in the oven every few months, but you can also naturally season your cast iron skillet just by cooking with it. Preparing dishes that require a lot of fat, such as fried chicken, fried eggs, or bacon, will create a layer of oil on the surface. This is why you should avoid excessive cleaning—over time, your cast iron pan will develop a seasoning patina that helps prevent rust, reduces food sticking, and enhances the flavor of your meals.

Recommended

Here's The Best Way To Cook A Flap Steak

Why You Should Never Put Celery Down The Garbage Disposal

What It Means When A Recipe Says To Slice Lengthwise Or Crosswise

The Best Way To Clean Your Crusty Crock Pot So It Looks Brand New

Next up

Advertisement