How to Clean a Cast Iron Pan

Dec 23

There are just a few steps needed to clean a cast iron pan after use. The process takes about 10 minutes, including cooling time. It should be repeated as needed.

Remember: Cast iron pans never go in the dishwasher. Use silicone tipped tools or wooden spoons on the cooking surface. Metal tools will damage the iron and cause it to flake and rust.

Step 1:

Grab an oven mitt, a cup of water, a silicone spatula or similar tool, coarse salt and a sponge. Turn the heat on the stove to medium high. Add a cup of water to the pan. Let the temperature rise until there is a slight boil inside the pan. Hold the pan’s handle with your oven mitt. Gently scrape the surface of the pan to lift cooked on residue.

Step 2:

Once the residue in the pan has been loosened, turn off the stove’s heat. Allow the pan to cool for about 5 minutes. When the pan becomes cool enough to handle with mitts, dump out the dirty water and excess residue. Return the pan to the stove top. Wipe out remaining water.

Step 3:

Add two to three pinches of coarse salt to the interior of the pan. Using a damp mild sponge (no soap!), clean the surface of the pan. The coarse salt acts as an abrasive to clean any remaining debris.