If you are planning to switch to cast iron cookware for its many benefits, then you’re in the right place. Learn how to clean and season a cast iron pan effectively so it lasts forever!
There are some recipes like my skillet lasagna or most Indo-Chinese dishes such as hakka noodles, fried rice, or even dragon chicken that I only make in my cast iron pan. It lends that beautiful smokiness that it’s impossible to achieve in any other type of cookware!
Watch How to Clean and Season Cast Iron Pans Video
This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.
A cast iron pan isn’t just another piece of cookware—it’s an old-school kitchen hero. With the right care, it can last you decades (and even get better with time!). But we get it—cleaning and seasoning cast iron cookware can feel a little intimidating at first. Knowing how to clean and season cast iron pans is actually super simple once you know the steps.
Jump to section: How to clean & Season Cast Iron Pans
Why Seasoning Matters
Seasoning your cast iron pan is what gives it that naturally non-stick surface and protects it from rust. It’s basically just a thin layer of oil baked into the surface. Every time you cook with oil, you’re adding to that seasoning. But every now and then, especially after a deep clean, it helps to give it a little extra love. Proper seasoning is a critical part of knowing how to clean and season cast iron pans effectively.
How to Clean a Cast Iron Pan (After Everyday Use)
- Skip the Soap: Instead, scrub it gently with warm water and a non-abrasive scrubber (a sponge or stiff brush works well).
- Tackle Stuck-On Bits: For stubborn spots, learn how to clean those bits using coarse salt and a bit of water as a scrub—it works like magic.
- Dry Immediately: Water is the enemy of cast iron. Wipe it dry right after washing or place it on low heat for a few minutes to evaporate any leftover moisture.
- Add a Light Oil Coat: Rub in a drop or two of oil (vegetable oil, canola, or flaxseed oil work great) before storing. Wipe off excess with a paper towel. This light coating is essential after cleaning and seasoning.
How to Season a Cast Iron Pan (Deep Seasoning)
Do this when your pan is looking dull or has been scrubbed down. Understanding this process is part of learning how to clean and season cast iron pans deeply:
- Preheat Your Oven: 200°C (400°F) is perfect.
- Wash & Dry Thoroughly: Give it a good clean and make sure it’s bone dry.
- Rub with Oil: Use a thin layer of high smoke-point oil like flaxseed, grapeseed, or canola. Don’t overdo it—too much oil can turn sticky.
- Bake Upside Down: Place the pan upside down on a middle rack (with a tray or foil underneath to catch drips) and bake for 1 hour.
- Cool in the Oven: Let it cool inside the oven before storing.
Repeat this process 2-3 times for a solid seasoning layer if your pan is new or has been stripped down completely. Mastering these steps will ensure your cast iron pan is well-cleaned and seasoned. If you’re wondering how to clean and season cast iron pans for the best results, this method guarantees success.
How To Remove Rust From An Iron Pan
No worries! Rust looks scary, but it’s totally fixable. Knowing how to clean off rust is crucial for maintaining your pan.
- Scrub off the rust with steel wool or a scouring pad until the surface feels smooth again.
- Wash and dry it thoroughly.
- Follow the deep seasoning steps above, ensuring your cast iron is completely cleaned and restored. Learning how to clean and season cast iron pans will help maintain your cookware in pristine condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Flaxseed oil is a favorite because it polymerizes well and creates a tough coating. But neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or grapeseed work just fine too—especially if they’re what you already have in your kitchen.
Scrub off all the rust with steel wool or a stiff brush until the surface is bare. Wash it, dry it completely, and season it just like a new pan. Rust is reversible!
Not necessarily! You don’t have to do a full seasoning every time, but it’s a good habit to rub a light layer of oil onto the surface after cleaning and drying.
Caring for cast iron is way less complicated than it sounds. Think of it as a slow-building relationship—regular maintenance, the occasional deep clean, and a little attention go a long way. With a bit of practice, your cast iron pan will reward you with years (or generations!) of delicious meals.
If you’ve been letting that cast iron pan sit in the back of the cupboard, this is your sign to pull it out and bring it back to life. Start with learning how to clean and season cast iron pans correctly.
The post How to Clean and Season Cast Iron Pans appeared first on My Food Story.
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