Cast Iron Care

This page is dedicated to cast iron care, cleaning, and maintenance. You’ll find practical guides, step-by-step tips, and proven methods for cleaning cast iron cookware, maintaining seasoning, and extending the life of your pans. Whether you’re new to cast iron or refining your routine, these resources are designed to help you cook with confidence.

How to Clean Your Cast Iron Pan

Keeping cast iron clean doesn’t need to be complicated. Our cleaning salt blend is designed for simple, everyday care without soaps or harsh chemicals.

Add the scrub
Sprinkle a small amount of Cast Iron Cleaning Salt Blend into your cookware.
Add a little water
Use just enough water to help form a light scrub.
Scrub with a cloth
Gently work the blend across the cooking surface until food residue and buildup are removed.
Rinse thoroughly
Rinse away the salt blend and loosened residue with clean water.
Dry completely
Thoroughly dry your cookware to help prevent rust.
Lightly oil
Apply a very thin layer of oil as needed to help maintain the seasoning.

For Stubborn Residue

For tougher buildup, simply add a little more scrub and repeat the process as needed.

Simple ingredients. Simple care. Better cast iron.

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How to Season Your Cast Iron

A good layer of seasoning helps protect cast iron and creates a smoother cooking surface over time.

Clean the pan
Make sure your cast iron is clean and free of food residue or buildup.
Dry completely
Dry the cookware thoroughly. You can warm it briefly on the stovetop to help remove any remaining moisture.
Apply a small amount of oil
Add a small amount of seasoning oil and spread it over the entire pan, including the cooking surface, sides, handle, and exterior.
Wipe away the excess
Using a clean cloth, buff the oil into a very thin, even layer. The pan should look almost dry. Too much oil can leave the surface sticky or uneven.
Heat the cookware
Place the pan upside down in an oven preheated to 425°F.
Bake for 1 hour
After 1 hour, turn off the oven and allow the pan to cool completely before removing it.
Repeat as needed
For a new, stripped, or heavily restored pan, repeating the process can help build a stronger seasoning layer.

Maintaining Your Seasoning

After regular cleaning, dry your cast iron completely and apply a very light coat of oil as needed. Consistent cooking and proper care will continue to build and strengthen the seasoning over time.

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FAQs

Why is my cast iron pan rusting?

Clean cast iron by scrubbing with a gentle abrasive like salt and a small amount of water, then rinse, dry thoroughly, and heat briefly to remove moisture. Avoid soaking or harsh scrubbing that can damage seasoning.

How do you fix rust on a cast iron pan?

Light rust can be removed by scrubbing the affected area, drying thoroughly, and re-seasoning the pan. Early rust is easy to fix when addressed quickly.

What oil is best for seasoning cast iron?

The best oils for seasoning cast iron are those with high smoke points and neutral flavors. Apply a very thin layer and heat until it bonds to the pan.

Can cast iron go in the dishwasher?

No. Dishwashers expose cast iron to prolonged water, heat, and detergents, which can strip seasoning and cause rust. Cast iron should always be hand cleaned.

How do you store cast iron to prevent rust?

Store cast iron completely dry in a low-humidity area. Avoid stacking damp pans and consider placing a barrier between cookware to protect surfaces.

Does cast iron get better the more you use it?

Yes. With proper care, cast iron builds seasoning over time, becoming more nonstick and durable the more it’s used and maintained correctly.

How do you clean cast iron without ruining it?

Related: How to Clean Cast Iron Properly • Cast Iron Cleaning Products

Can you use soap on cast iron pans?

Small amounts of mild soap won’t ruin cast iron, but frequent soap use isn’t necessary. Most cast iron can be cleaned effectively with hot water and gentle scrubbing.

How often should you season cast iron cookware?

Cast iron only needs to be seasoned when the surface looks dry, dull, or starts sticking. With proper cleaning and regular use, frequent re-seasoning isn’t required.

What is the best way to remove stuck-on food from cast iron?

The best way to remove stuck-on food is to scrub the pan while warm using a natural abrasive and water, then dry immediately. Avoid metal scraping that can damage seasoning.