Caring for Your
Cast Iron Cookware
Use On Low to Medium Heat Only
Stovetop
Agnostic
500°F Max
Oven Heat
Handwash

Only
Follow these tips to keep your cast iron in top shape for a lifetime.
1. Season Regularly
If food starts sticking or the surface looks dull, re-season your cast iron. Apply oil and bake it in the oven at 450°F (232°C) for an hour to restore its non-stick coating
2. Clean After Every Use:
Wash your cast iron with warm water and a scrubber immediately after cooking. Avoid letting food sit in the pan for too long, as it can damage the seasoning.
3. Dry Immediately
Never let cast iron air dry—this can cause rust. Instead, wipe it dry and heat it on the stovetop for a minute to remove excess moisture.
4. Use the Right Oils
For seasoning, use high smoke-point oils like flaxseed, canola, or vegetable oil. Avoid olive oil, as it can become sticky.
5. Store with Care
Store your cast iron in a dry place. If stacking with other cookware, place a paper towel or cloth between pieces to prevent scratching and moisture buildup.
How to Clean
Your Cast Iron Pan
Step 1: Clean Immediately After Use
Allow the pan to cool slightly, but don’t let it sit for too long. Cleaning while it’s still warm makes it easier to remove food residue
Never soak your cast iron in water.
Step 2: Scrub Gently
Rinse the pan with warm water.
Use a stiff brush, sponge, or chainmail scrubber to remove stuck-on food. Avoid using soap unless absolutely necessary.
Step 3: Dry Completely
Use a clean towel to dry the pan immediately after washing.
For extra assurance, place the pan on a stove burner over low heat for a few minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture.
Step 4: Apply a Thin Layer of Oil
Once the pan is completely dry, apply a very thin layer of cooking oil (e.g., vegetable, canola, or flaxseed oil) to the entire surface, including the handle and bottom.
Wipe off any excess oil to avoid a sticky residue.
Do’s
Season Regularly: Apply a thin layer of oil and bake your cast iron to maintain its non-stick surface and prevent rust.
Clean Immediately After Use: Wash with warm water and a scrubber while the pan is still warm to remove food residue.
Dry Thoroughly: Always dry your cast iron completely after washing to prevent rust.
Use high smoke-point oils like flaxseed or canola for seasoning.
Store in a Dry Place: Keep your cast iron in a cool, dry location, and apply a light coat of oil before storing.
Don’ts
Don’t Use Soap Excessively: Avoid using soap unless absolutely necessary, as it can strip the seasoning.
Don’t Soak in Water: Prolonged exposure to water can cause rust.
Don’t Put It in the Dishwasher: The harsh detergents and water exposure will damage the seasoning and cause rust.
Don’t Cook Acidic Foods for Long Periods: Foods like tomatoes or vinegar can erode the seasoning if cooked for extended times.
Don’t Leave Food in the Pan: Storing food in cast iron can damage the seasoning and cause metallic flavors.
Frequently Asked
 Questions
1. Can I use soap to clean my cast iron cookware?
Yes, you can use a small amount of mild soap occasionally, especially if the pan is very dirty or greasy. However, avoid excessive use of soap as it can strip the seasoning. For regular cleaning, warm water and a scrubber are usually sufficient.
2. What should I do if my cast iron gets rusty?
Rust can be removed by scrubbing the affected area with steel wool or a stiff brush. Once the rust is gone, wash the pan, dry it thoroughly, and re-season it by applying a thin layer of oil and baking it in the oven.
3. How often should I season my cast iron cookware?
You should season your cast iron as needed. If food starts sticking, the surface looks dull, or rust appears, it’s time to re-season. Regular use and applying a thin layer of oil after each cleaning can help maintain the seasoning.
4. Can I cook acidic foods in cast iron?
Yes, but only for short periods. Cooking acidic foods for extended periods can strip the seasoning and leave a metallic taste. If your pan is well-seasoned, it will handle acidic foods better.
5. Why does my cast iron feel sticky after seasoning?
A sticky surface usually means too much oil was applied during seasoning. To fix this, place the pan upside down in the oven at 450°F (232°C) for an hour to bake off the excess oil. Let it cool and wipe it down with a thin layer of oil.
How to restore a rusty cast iron pan
Step 1: Scrub
Scour the rusty pan with warm, soapy water and steel wool. It's okay to use soap since you are preparing to re-season the cookware. Rinse and hand dry thoroughly.
Step 2: Oil the cookware
Apply a very thin, even layer of cooking oil to the cookware (inside and out). If you use too much oil, your cookware may become sticky.
Step 3: Bake
Place the cookware in the oven upside down on the top rack. Place a large baking sheet or aluminum foil on the bottom rack to catch any excess oil that may drip off the cookware. Bake at 450-500F for one hour. Allow to cool and repeat as necessary to achieve the classic black patina.
While maintaining the seasoning usually keeps your cast iron in good condition, accidents can happen, and rust may develop. For small rusty spots, simply scrub the rust away, rinse thoroughly, dry completely, and apply a thin layer of vegetable oil. If the rust is more extensive, follow the steps below to restore the finish of your cast iron cookware.