How to Clean Cast Iron Skillet

These steps will give you the right way to clean your cast iron skillet. It can get confusing on how to clean your skillet. There are so many do’s and don’ts that it causes people not to use the iron skillet.

I have been loving my cast iron pan so we’re using it every day now, so it doesn’t take long for the cast iron skillet to show some wear and need to be re-seasoned to make it look like new again!

Make sure you check out how to properly season your pan so when it comes time to clean it, your skillet is ready to go.

Why Cast Iron Needs Special Care?

Unlike stainless steel or nonstick pans, cast iron has a porous surface that holds onto oil and seasoning. Soap can strip it, and water can rust it — but don’t worry! With a few quick steps, you can clean it without damaging the surface.

There really isn’t a wrong way to properly care for your cast iron skillet, other than putting in the dishwasher. As long as you have a good scraper to get the stuck on foods off and a little water, you cast iron will be good as knew.

This easy to clean cast iron cookware is very forgiving even if you do have a few rust spots. As long as you properly season it then you should be able to use it for many years to come.

Supplies Needed

• Cast Iron Skillet
• Scraper
• Paper Towels

How to Clean a Cast Iron Skillets

Step 1 – Remove any grease – Drain any excess grease from the pan.

Step 2 – Add water and heat pan – Add water in the pan and turn the burner to heat it over medium heat.

Step 3 – Scrape pan – Use a wooden spatula, scraper, scouring pad or scrub brush to scrape off any stuck-on food residue still stuck on the grill. You may need to use kosher salt or any coarse salt if the food won’t come off.

Step 4 – Let Pan Cool – Once everything is removed, remove from the heat, drain off the water and let the pan cool. Then rinse the pan thoroughly with cool water.

• Step 5 – Dry – Wipe Dry immediately with a paper towel or you can place on low heat on the stovetop. You skillet will look like a new pan. Place in storage so it ready to use.

Cast Iron Skillet Tips

• Using Soap – Use as little soap as possible when cleaning your cast iron every time you cook. Most times hot water and a scrubber will be sufficient to clean your cast iron skillet.
• Sticky Food – If you find that food is sticking to your skillet, that means that it is time to re-season it. Just follow the steps above regularly to enjoy your cast iron skillet.
• Adding Oil – Only add a thin coating of oil to the skillet with a soft sponge. If you add too much oil, it could cause the pan to be sticky.

What Can Ruin a Cast Iron Skillet

There are several ways that you can ruin a cast iron skillet. It doesn’t mean that it can never be used again. It just means that you will need to season it again thoroughly.

• Putting in the Dishwasher
• Letting the Skillet Soak
• Not using salt to scrub
• Leaving foods caked on
• Not oiling the skillet
• Storing it wet

What is the Best Oil to Season a Cast Iron Skillet

When seasoning your cast iron skillet it is best to season when it is completely cooled. Apply a light coat with about 1 tablespoon of Vegetable Oil. We recommend to not use excessive oil. Start with a small amount.

If you don’t have vegetable oil, you can use canola oil, grapeseed oil, lard or a high quality olive oil or cooking oil. You just want to make sure to use an oil that has a high smoke point, so avoid flaxseed oil and avocado oil.

Reasoning a cast iron skillet is a process called polymerization. When oils or fats are heated at a high enough temperature, they harden on the surface. Check out these helpful tips on what is the Best Oil for Cast Iron Pan.