Of all the different types of cookware cast iron cookware is one of the most durable and versatile cookwares that you can use for cooking. It can be used on top of the stove or placed in an oven. It is not that difficult to take care of and clean however, there are a few things to be aware of about caring for cast iron cookware. Here are a few tips that will keep your cast iron cookware clean and in good condition.

Washing cast iron cookware:

As soon as you are done cooking rinse your pan in very hot water. It is best to do this while it is still hot from the cooking. This way most of the food debris will easily wash off. It is not necessary to use a cleaning liquid. Dish detergent may remove some of the seasoning that keeps food from sticking to the pan. If you clean your cookware and food starts to stick you will need to re-season it again.

Once cast iron is properly seasoned you need to be careful when you clean it, so the seasoning is not affected. There will be times when you need to scrape the surface of a pan. Scrape it gently and do not use any kind of metal when scraping.

Do not scratch the surface with steel wool. This can eliminate the layer of seasoning that you cook into it when it was new. The normal seasoning process can take several hours, but if you are too vigorous in your cleaning, you can re-season in a few minutes.

How to re-season cast iron cookware:

To re-season cast iron cookware place the pan on the stove burner and turn the heat to medium. Make sure there is sufficient grease inside but do not use butter as it burns too easily. Heat the grease until it begins to smoke. Let the pan smoke for about 20 seconds and then turn off the heat. Allow your pan to continue to smoke until it stops. Leave the pan on the burner until it cools off. Remove the grease and wipe your pan out with a paper towel.

Cast iron cookware storage:

Once your cookware is cleaned it should be placed on a warm burner to dry. This helps to eliminate rusting. When dry apply grease to the pan and let it soak in. The pores in the cast iron will absorb the grease which helps to protect it from rust. After a minute or so wipe the pan clean and store it.

Always oil or grease your cast iron cookware before storing. Cast iron may rust if not properly taken care of. Never let the pan sit with liquid in it for long periods of time and never let the pan air dry to avoid rusting.

Cast iron cookware maintenance tips:

When you cook, try not to use a very high heat. High heat can sometimes be damaging to cast iron. Once your pan is well seasoned you may not wish to use metal utensils as they can scratch the surface and cause food to stick. Never place cast iron cookware in a dishwasher as this can remove the seasoning and contribute to rust.

These tips on how to clean cast iron cookware will assure you that your cookware will last for decades and still be just like new.

Cooking with Cast Iron Cookware

How to Clean a Kitchen

How to Cleaning a Woodstove Pipe

Marble Top Furniture Cleaning and Repair

Window Washing