How to Clean Cast Iron Cookware

Learn how to easily clean your cast iron cookware. Although cast iron cookware is prized by cooks everywhere because of its excellent heat-retention and diffusion properties, maintaining the quality of the cookware is sometimes intimidating for the first-time user. However, there is no reason to fear using cast iron pans because proper care of the cookware consists of two simple steps: preparing each pan to create a non-stick surface and prevent rust and properly cleaning the pan to maintain that surface. Just follow these easy directions to season and care for your cast iron pans.

1. First: Seasoning your pan

   Before using the pan for the first time, coat it with cooking oil and bake it for an hour in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven. Thoroughly dry it with paper towels, and it is ready to use. Each time you heat oil in the pan, the seasoning is reinforced and eventually creates a shiny black patina that signifies the pan is now non-stick and rust proof. To hasten the process, just season it a few times before use.

2. Second: Cleaning your pan

   To maintain the non-stick surface, never let the pan soak in water. Instead, rinse the pan with hot water immediately after cooking. For burned-on food, use a small amount of dish-washing detergent and scrub with a mild abrasive, such as coarse salt or a non-metal brush. If despite your best efforts the pan develops rust or a sticky surface coating, scrub with steel wool and re-season. It is really that simple!