Learning how to properly clean your cast iron pan can prolong its life, prevent rusting and maintain its important seasoning. Follow our steps on how to clean a cast-iron pan so you can start using this kitchen staple with confidence.

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Before You Clean

These durable pans will protect your food from burning as long as you take good care of them. Most cast iron cookware comes pre-seasoned, therefore it's important to maintain that seasoning throughout every cleaning cycle.

The seasoning on a cast iron pan is a polymer that has formed between oil and the pan’s surface. This seasoning creates a nonstick surface and adds delicious flavour to every dish. Preserving that layer however, can get a little tricky. Improper methods of cleaning can actually strip the seasoning away and the process of re-seasoning a cast iron pan can be time consuming.

How to Clean a Cast Iron Pan

Step 1: Start Right Away

Begin cleaning your cast iron pan immediately after cooking, so use pot holders or tongs if the pan is too hot to touch. Avoid using dish soap by letting it soak in the sink or placing it in the dishwasher. Instead, pour one cup of coarse sea salt directly into the pan, then use a wooden spatula or spoon to scrub away any leftover food residue. The abrasiveness of the salt will scrape off any hardened bits of food without damaging the pan’s layer of seasoning.

Step 2: Remove Anything Remaining

Use a clean towel to scrub away the remaining salt and food. If there are still some stubborn food spots, boil a small amount of water in the pan to loosen the particles and repeat step 1.

Step 3: Dry

Once your pan is completely clean, use a clean cloth to dry it thoroughly. If the pan still feels wet, place it on a heated stovetop to evaporate any extra moisture. This will protect your cast iron pan from rusting.

Step 4: Oil

Once the cookware is completely dry, wipe the interior of the pan with a cloth dipped in ½ teaspoon of vegetable oil or melted shortening. Store your cast iron pan in a dry area, such as a cabinet or stovetop.

Tip: Use a dedicated cloth when wiping down your pan so that all of your towels don’t turn black.

How to Remove Rust

If your beloved cast iron pan has built up a layer of rust over the years, a non-metallic scrubber paired with a little bit of soapy water will do the trick. If the rust is still visible after scrubbing, mix equal parts water and white vinegar and submerge the pan in the liquid completely. Let sit for up to eight hours, frequently checking on the pan to see if the rust is removed in less time. If scrubbing is needed, proceed with using the non-metallic scrubber again, otherwise go right to re-seasoning your pan.

Tip: Avoid using steel wool or a metal scrubber on your cast iron pan's surface as this will damage the seasoning. If you feel you have no option but to use one of the two, only do before re-seasoning.

Re-Seasoning a Cast Iron Pan

In the case that your pan does not come pre-seasoned or if you feel that the seasoning has worn off, here are simple steps on how to return it to its original state.

Step 1: Wash

Wash your pan with hot water and dish soap.

Step 2: Dry

Wipe the pan dry with a clean towel.

Step 3: Add Shortening

Apply a thin layer of solid shortening with a paper towel on the front, sides and bottom of the pan.

Step 4: Place in Oven

Place your pan facedown on aluminum foil in the oven.

Step 5: Heat Up

Let it heat for over one hour at 180°C.

Step 6: Then Cool

Turn off the oven and let the pan cool down in the oven.

Tip: Never put your cast iron cookware into the dishwasher. Dishwashers are notorious for removing the seasoning, which is likely to cause rust.

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