To clean a cast iron skillet effectively while preserving its seasoning and preventing rust, follow these steps:
- Wash by Hand
Use warm water and a small amount of mild soap if desired. You can scrub gently with a soft sponge, dish brush, or a pan scraper to remove stuck-on food. For stubborn residue, simmer a little water in the pan for 3-5 minutes to loosen it, then scrape after cooling. Avoid soaking the skillet or using a dishwasher
- Use Salt for Tough Residue
If you prefer not to use soap or want to preserve seasoning, sprinkle coarse kosher salt in the pan and scrub with a wooden spoon or scrubber to remove stuck bits. This method also helps maintain the pan’s patina
- Dry Thoroughly
Immediately dry the skillet completely with a lint-free cloth or paper towel to prevent rust. You can also heat it on the stove for a short time to evaporate any remaining moisture
- Oil the Surface
After drying, apply a very thin layer of cooking oil (vegetable oil, olive oil, or a seasoning spray) to the entire surface, inside and out. Wipe off any excess oil with a paper towel to avoid stickiness
- Optional Re-Seasoning for Rust or Heavy Cleaning
If the pan has rust or you’ve used soap heavily, scrub with steel wool and soap, rinse, dry, then apply oil and bake the pan upside down in an oven at 450-500°F for one hour. This restores the seasoning
Additional Tips:
- Never soak cast iron in water or put it in the dishwasher.
- Avoid drastic temperature changes to prevent warping or cracking.
- Regular use and proper cleaning improve the non-stick surface over time
This method ensures your cast iron skillet remains clean, rust-free, and well- seasoned for long-term use.
