How to Clean Your Cast Iron Skillets

I’ve been using cast iron skillets almost exclusively for over two decades. I love my cast iron skillets and believe it or not, a well seasoned, well used cast iron pan is basically non-stick. I can cook scrambled eggs in my skillets and they don’t stick! Learn how to clean your cast iron skillets below!

Don’t let the fear of damaging your cast iron skillet hold you back from using cast iron on a daily basis. With the right care, your skillet can last for generations, becoming one of the most reliable pieces of cookware in your kitchen. I fully plan on passing down my cast iron collection to my children.

Whether you’re new to using cast iron or just looking for a refresher, these cleaning tips will help you maintain your skillet so you can cook with confidence. Learn how to clean, season, and care for your cast iron properly, ensuring it stays in excellent condition and enhances the flavor of your meals.

How to clean a cast iron skillet in 3 easy steps

Cleaning cast iron is a simple three-step process, but it’s important to use the correct technique and tools to avoid damaging your pans and preserve their beauty.

With proper care, your cast iron skillet can last a lifetime and be in such good condition that you can pass it down to the next generation. That’s how resilient and reliable this kitchen essential is. Its durability, longevity, and plastic-free composition make it a sustainable choice that stands out.

Unlike other cookware, cast iron actually improves with age, developing a seasoned surface that enhances flavor. It also retains and distributes heat evenly, making it an ideal tool for creating quick and easy skillet dinner meals.

“Cleaning a cast-iron skillet is not as scary as it seems. If the skillet is properly seasoned, there’s not much you can do in normal cleaning that will ruin the seasoning since the seasoning oil actually bonds with the metal to form a seal. Even dish soap can’t break through that bond.”

— Robin Donovan, All Ways Delicious

While cast iron is incredibly durable, it’s not indestructible. It’s important to remember that it’s not dishwasher safe, isn’t resistant to scratches, and can rust if not properly cared for. Regular maintenance is key to keeping it in top shape.

Note: If your cast iron skillet does rust, don’t throw it out! You can bring it back to life.

Step 1: Wash the skillet

When it comes to cleaning cleaning cast iron skillets, hot water is your best ally. Start by scraping out any remaining food with a wooden or silicone spatula, and transfer any leftovers into food-safe containers. 

Next, rinse the pan under hot water, removing as much of the remaining food as possible.

You can also pre-wipe the pan, as Lara describes: “After using a cast iron skillet, I like to let it cool down a bit and then wipe out the bits of food and grease with a paper towel or damp cloth.”

— Lara Clevenger, LaraClevenger.com

After rinsing, use a scouring pad or a brush designed for cast iron (this is the one I use) to gently scrub the surface. Usually, a quick scrub for about a minute is all it takes to get the pan completely clean.

Honestly, you don’t want to scrub too much. If you overscrub your cast iron you can strip the seasoning off so just be mindful.

Is it ok to use soap on cast iron?

A controversial atmosphere surrounding using soap on cast iron gets heated on both sides. Some say yes, while others say no. America’s Test Kitchen sets the record straight by announcing: Yes, you can use soap on cast iron.

That being said, the statement assumes you’re working on a well-seasoned pan and choosing a mild dish soap. 

In my kitchen I rarely use soap on my cast iron. I prefer to simply use a scrub brush intended for cast iron and hot water. The only time I scrub my cast iron with dish soap is if there is a good amount of food left stuck to the pan – like spaghetti sauce or gravy.

Step 2: Dry the skillet

Properly drying the skillet is key to maintaining its long-term quality and preventing rust. Place the pan in a hot oven or on the stovetop over medium-high heat until all the water has evaporated from the surface.

Important: When drying your cast iron on the stovetop, don’t walk away. Stay with it until you turn the burner off.

Step 3: Season the skillet

Finally, rub oil over all surfaces, inside and out. The process is as simple as it sounds:

“After I wipe the skillet dry with a dish towel, I put it on the stove over medium heat. Then, once it’s totally dry, I pour a little cooking oil in, and wipe that around the skillet with some paper towels. I can have cast iron cleaned and put away in less than 5 minutes!”

— Sara Nelson, Real Balanced

The pan will be exceptionally hot after drying it out. Choose any cooking fat from coconut oil or tallow to vegetable oil and wipe it around with a paper towel. You want to use an oil that has a high heat point. Olive oil will smoke. It doesn’t take much oil at all. Too much oil will cause it to build up and become sticky.

This seasoning method effectively creates a bond with the iron, thereby creating a natural nonstick coating that is so closely associated with cast iron cookware. It’s precisely this nonstick coating without chemicals that we’re after because cast iron cooking is great for just about anything from cabbage stir-fry to fish and even eggs.

What to do with really grimy pans?

You might be tempted to soak the pan in water as a way of softening up crusted and stuck-on food bits. Even though this works with regular dishes, please don’t make it a practice with your cast iron.

Instead, add water to the pan and heat it on the stovetop. Scrape the bottom and sides with a wooden spoon or spatula and continue heating until the water boils. Don’t risk scratching the coating with metal utensils.

Gina Matsoukas, from Running To The Kitchen, recommends making a paste with water and salt if the problem persists. Apply the salt scrub to the pan’s surface and spot clean with a folded kitchen towel or washcloth. For seriously crusted skillets, spread 1 cup of salt on a still-warm pan. Then, likewise, fold a towel and scour the trouble zones. Finish off with a final rinse, and dry and season like normal.

Long-term care for cast iron skillets

Best practices indicate high-success rates by reseasoning a skillet often after use. Ideally, after each time you cook with it. Avoid a gummy pan by maintaining a nice slick seasoning. Too much oil will build up into a sticky surface. If this ever happens, wash it off with hot water, dry thoroughly, and reseason with a thin layer of oil.

Be consistent by following the simple steps of washing, drying, and seasoning a cast iron skillet, and you’ll love having a clean and reliable piece of cooking equipment for all your one-pan meals and culinary needs.

This article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.