Cast iron skillets have a reputation for sticking around for generations, and there’s a good reason for that. A well-cared-for
That doesn’t mean cast iron is completely maintenance-free. Food can stick, rust can appear, and a
Here are 15 ways to clean, dry, and season your cast iron
1. Paper Towel or Cloth
When to use: This is a good choice after cooking something that leaves behind only a light layer of grease or a few crumbs.
Method: While the
2. Hot Water Rinse
When to use: Use hot water for routine cleanup when there isn’t much stuck to the cooking surface.
Method: Let the
3. Plastic Scraper
When to use: A plastic or silicone scraper is handy for food that has dried onto the surface but isn’t completely baked on.
Method: Once the
For more information on cast iron care, see this guide to the downsides to using a cast-iron pan.
4. Kosher Salt and a Sponge
When to use: Coarse salt works well for light scrubbing when food is stuck to the pan.
Method: Sprinkle a generous layer of kosher salt over the
5. Boiling Water
When to use: Try boiling water if cooked-on food refuses to come loose with a normal rinse.
Method: Add about ½ cup of water to the
This is often enough to loosen stubborn bits without resorting to aggressive scrubbing.
6. Chainmail Scrubber
When to use: A chainmail scrubber can be useful for tougher pieces of food that remain after rinsing or boiling.
Method: Wet the
7. Heat Drying
When to use: Use heat drying after any cleaning method involving water.
Method: Place the clean
If rust has already appeared, this guide can help: Rusted Cast Iron Skillet? Here’s The Secret To Restoring It.
8. Oil Rub
When to use: A light coating of oil after cleaning helps protect the iron and maintain its seasoned surface.
Method: Once the
9. Soap, Used Sparingly
When to use: Mild dish soap can be useful if your
Method: Add a small amount of mild dish soap to a soft sponge and gently clean the
Modern cast iron seasoning can handle a small amount of mild soap. You don’t need to avoid it completely.
10. Baking Soda Paste
When to use: Baking soda can help with stubborn odors left behind by foods such as fish,
Method: Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste. Rub it gently over the
11. Potato and Salt
When to use: This old-fashioned cleaning trick can be useful for light grime and stuck-on food.
Method: Sprinkle coarse salt into the
12. Cast Iron Cleaning Brush
When to use: If you cook with cast iron often, a sturdy cleaning brush can make routine cleanup much easier.
Method: Rinse the warm
13. Periodic Re-Seasoning
When to use: Re-seasoning makes sense when food starts sticking more than usual, the surface looks dull or patchy, or you’ve had to remove rust.
Method: Start by cleaning the
Place the
14. Vinegar for Light Rust
When to use: A diluted vinegar solution can help loosen light rust on a cast iron
Method: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Submerge the rusty portion of the
Once the rust has loosened, scrub the affected area with a stiff brush or steel wool. Rinse the
Avoid leaving cast iron in vinegar for too long, since the acid can start attacking the bare iron once the rust is gone.
15. Steel Wool
When to use: Fine steel wool is useful for heavier rust that won’t come off with gentler scrubbing.
Method: Scrub the rusty areas with fine steel wool until the rust has been removed and the bare metal is visible. Rinse away the residue and dry the
Because heavy rust removal can strip away seasoning, the
