How to Clean a Cast Iron Skillet

What is the best way to clean a cast iron skillet? A little soap and water should do the trick. You may need to add salt or vinegar to remove rust or brown stains on cast iron skillets. Also, chainmail is great for getting crud off cast iron cookware. Need instructions for keeping your cast iron clean and seasoned? Read on!

Love cooking with non-toxic cookware, but a little overwhelmed by the cleaning process?

We hear you, chef! Nothing is more delicious than the ooey-gooey yumminess of cast iron mac and cheese, but figuring out how to clean a cast iron skillet can leave you scratching your noodle. Whip up your favorite home-cooked cast iron skillet meals without the dread of a colossal cleanup. With a little patience and the right techniques, you'll find that cleaning your cast iron can become a simple, even enjoyable part of your cooking routine. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to maintaining a beautifully seasoned, long-lasting cast iron skillet that will serve you (and your family) for years to come.

Are Cast Iron Skillets Nonstick?

Don’t cast doubt on the effectiveness of cast iron’s nonstick capabilities. Sure, cast irons aren’t naturally nonstick. However, they can be! You just have to harness these powers for yourself. 

Cast irons become nonstick through a process known as seasoning. That’s when you build up layers of baked-up oils to create a non-toxic, nonstick cooking surface. Yup. Cast irons can become even better with time.

However, maintaining a seasoned cast iron requires a bit of care. That’s where proper cleaning of a cast iron skillet comes into play.

If you use harsh soaps or scrub too hard, you can break the natural nonstick coat on your cast iron. It can also cause the cast iron to rust prematurely. 

We know it might seem like extra work compared to regular non-stick pans, but it's totally worth going this extra mile. Trust us, once you try a cast iron steak and eggs, you’ll never go back!

Why Bother With Cast Iron When There Is Nonstick Cookware?

Nonstick cookware can create a sticky situation for your health. Nonstick pans are typically coated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

Also known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS have been linked to serious health effects, including:

Unlike nonstick pans, cast iron skillets don't contain any potentially harmful chemicals. They're made of pure iron, which is safe for cooking and can even provide a small boost of dietary iron. When properly seasoned, cast iron develops a natural nonstick surface without any PFAS coatings.

Beyond the health benefits, cast iron offers superior cooking performance compared to nonstick cookware.

Cast iron provides:

  • Excellent heat retention and distribution
  • Versatility for stovetop, oven, and even campfire cooking
  • Ability to reach very high temperatures for perfect searing
  • Durability to last for generations with proper care

While cast iron does require some maintenance, the effort is well worth it for safer, better-tasting food. Check out this recipe for cast iron peach cobbler, and tell us that traditional nonstick cookware can do this! 

What Is the Best Way To Clean A Cast Iron Skillet?

To effectively clean a cast iron skillet, you'll need a few basic materials, including hot water, a non-abrasive scrubber or coarse salt, and neutral oil for seasoning. Start by rinsing the skillet while it’s still warm to loosen any stuck food, and avoid using soap to preserve the skillet's seasoning. After cleaning, ensure the skillet is thoroughly dried and apply a thin layer of oil to maintain its non-stick surface and protect it for future use.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cleaning a Cast Iron Skillet

  1. Clean While Hot: After cooking, let your skillet cool just enough to handle safely. It’s best to clean it while it’s still warm, as this helps loosen any stuck-on food.
  2. Rinse with Hot Water: Use hot water to rinse out any food particles. Avoid using soap, as it can strip the seasoning from the skillet. If there are stubborn bits stuck on, you can use a soft scrubber or a chainmail scrubber to gently remove them.
  3. Use Salt for Stuck-On Food: For tougher messes, sprinkle some coarse kosher salt into the skillet. The salt acts as an abrasive that helps lift off food without damaging the seasoning. Use a dry cloth or paper towel to scrub the surface with the salt.
  4. Boil Water for Tough Residue: If food is still stuck, add a small amount of water to the skillet and bring it to a boil on the stove. This will help loosen any remaining bits. Once done, carefully pour out the water and wipe the skillet clean.
  5. Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, it’s crucial to dry your skillet immediately to prevent rusting. You can place it on low heat on the stove for a few minutes until all moisture evaporates.
  6. Re-season with Oil: Once dry, apply a thin layer of neutral oil (like vegetable or canola oil) to the interior of the skillet using a paper towel. This helps maintain the seasoning and keeps your skillet non-stick.
  7. Store Cast Iron Properly: Store your cast iron skillet in a cool, dry place. If stacking with other cookware, place a paper towel between them to protect the surface.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your cast iron skillet remains in excellent condition, ready for your next delicious meal!

How Do You Get Tough Gunk Off A Cast Iron Skillet?

Sometimes, our meals can get a bit messy. You’ll understand once you clean up the Sloppy Joe Casserole. However, slopping up every last bite is well worth the extra elbow grease during cleanup. 

To perform an abrasive cleaning on a cast iron skillet, follow these steps:

  1. Start with a Warm Skillet: Just as with any regular cleaning, allow your skillet to cool slightly after cooking, but clean it while it's still warm. This helps loosen any stuck-on food.
  2. Use Coarse Salt or Cornmeal: Sprinkle a generous amount of coarse kosher salt or cornmeal into the skillet. These abrasive agents will help scrub away tough residue without damaging the seasoning.
  3. Scrub with a Cloth or Scrubber: Using a clean, dry cloth or a chain link scrubber, gently scrub the surface of the skillet with the salt. The grit will help lift off any stubborn bits of food.
  4. Add Water if Necessary: If there are still stubborn spots, you can add a small amount of hot water to the skillet and use your scrubber to loosen the debris further. Avoid soaking the skillet for long periods.
  5. Rinse and Dry Immediately: Rinse the skillet with hot water to remove any remaining salt and food particles. Dry it thoroughly with a paper towel or by placing it on low heat on the stove to evaporate any moisture.
  6. Re-season if Needed: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of neutral oil (like vegetable or canola oil) to the interior of the skillet using a paper towel. This helps maintain its non-stick surface and prevents rust.

With a little TLC, your cast iron will be as good as new!

How to Clean Cast Iron With A Chain

Sometimes, you need to get down on cast iron’s level by getting to the nitty gritty of cleaning with steel. Cleaning a cast iron skillet with a chainmail scrubber is an effective and gentle method for tackling tough residues. A chain mail scrubber is made of stainless steel links that provide a robust yet non-damaging way to scrub away suck-on food without stripping the skillet's seasoning.

To clean your skillet, start by rinsing it with hot water while it's still warm from cooking. Then, use the chain mail scrubber to gently rub the surface, applying light pressure to remove any stubborn bits. For best results, try working stubborn gunk by moving the chainmail in circular motions.

After scrubbing, rinse the skillet thoroughly, dry it completely to prevent rust, and finish by applying a thin layer of neutral oil to maintain its seasoning. This method not only makes cleanup easier but also helps ensure your cast iron skillet remains in excellent condition for generations to come!

Should You Oil Cast Iron After Every Use?

Hey, you season your food. Might as well season your cast iron, too. However, seasoning your cast iron doesn’t involve salt and pepper. It involves a dab of food-grade oil. 

You do not need to oil your cast iron skillet after every use, but it is a good practice to do so if the skillet looks dry. After cleaning, applying a thin layer of oil helps maintain the seasoning and prevents rust. 

Many experienced cast iron users recommend lightly oiling the skillet after it has been cleaned and dried, especially if it has been used for cooking fatty foods, as this can help reinforce the non-stick surface.

While you don’t have to re-season your cast iron skillet after every use, it’s beneficial to do so a few times a year or whenever you notice food starting to stick. It’s a good practice to season your cast iron skillet at least once a month.

Avocado oil is a good, healthy oil to use for seasoning cast iron. It has a high smoke point of around 500-520°F, making it ideal for the high temperatures required during the seasoning process.

Can I Use Soap and Water On A Cast Iron?

Yes, you can use dish soap on your cast iron skillet, especially if you choose products without harmful chemicals. When in doubt, soap up your cast iron using Million Marker Approved Household Cleaning Products

Just remember, a little goes a long way to clean your cast iron with soap and water. Only use a small amount! Also, it’s best to avoid immersing the skillet unnecessarily. This can cause rust. Instead, use minimal water to rinse it out.

While it’s fine to use soap occasionally, try to stick with gentle cleaning methods most of the time. This helps preserve the skillet's seasoning, which is crucial for its nonstick properties and overall longevity. 

How to Clean A Rusty Cast Iron Skillet

When cooking with cast iron…rust happens! Don’t throw the skillet into the trash! Bring it back to life to cook yet another epic honey mustard roasted chicken.

Follow these steps to remove rust from cast iron:

  1. Scrub Off the Rust: Begin by using a steel wool scouring pad or a wire brush to scrub away the rust. If you prefer a gentler option, coarse salt can also be effective. Make sure to use warm water to help loosen any debris.
  2. Wash with Soap (Optional): While it’s generally advised to avoid soap, using a small amount is acceptable in this case since you'll be re-seasoning the skillet afterward. Apply a little dish soap along with warm water to remove any remaining rust particles.
  3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the skillet under hot water to ensure all soap and rust are removed.
  4. Dry Completely: It’s crucial to dry the skillet immediately to prevent further rusting. You can do this by placing it on the stove over low heat until all moisture evaporates.
  5. Re-season the Skillet: Once dry, apply a thin layer of neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil) all over the cooking surface. Heat the skillet in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about an hour to create a new seasoning layer.
  6. Store Properly: After re-seasoning, allow the skillet to cool and store it in a dry place, ideally with a paper towel inside to absorb any moisture.

There you have it! Your cast iron is rust-free and ready to serve your family its next nutritious meal. 

What Is the Difference Between Rust and Brown Stains on Cast Iron?

The difference between rust and brown stains on cast iron cookware lies primarily in their appearance and origin. Rust typically appears as a flaky, reddish-brown, or orange discoloration. Its presence indicates that the iron has been exposed to moisture and has begun to corrode. Rust can be surface-level or more severe, depending on how long the moisture has been present. 

On the other hand, brown stains are often the result of burnt food residue or carbon buildup from cooking, which can appear as dark spots or discoloration on the surface of the skillet.

To differentiate between the two, you can lightly scrub the area with a bit of oil or a non-abrasive scrubber; if it lifts off easily, it’s likely food residue. If it remains stubborn and flaky, it’s probably rust. 

How Do You Remove Brown Stains from Cast Iron?

Brown stains that have sat on your cast iron for a while can present some challenges when cleaning your skillet. However, there are ways to restore your cast iron back to its original glory. 

Try these deep cleaning techniques for cast iron skillets to remove brown stains:

  1. Use Coarse Salt: For light stains, sprinkle coarse kosher salt into the skillet. The salt acts as an abrasive that helps lift off the stains without damaging the seasoning. Use a cloth or sponge to scrub the surface gently, then rinse with hot water.
  2. Vinegar Soak: If the stains are more stubborn, create a solution of equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. Soak the skillet for up to 8 hours, checking periodically. Once the stains have softened, scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or brush to remove any remaining residue. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
  3. Baking Soda Paste: Make a paste using baking soda and a small amount of water. Apply it to the stained areas and let it sit for about 15 minutes before scrubbing gently. Rinse well to remove any baking soda residue.
  4. Steel Wool for Tough Stains: For very tough stains, you can use steel wool or a chain mail scrubber. Scrub gently to avoid stripping away too much seasoning, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
  5. Re-season Your Skillet: After cleaning, it's important to dry the skillet completely and apply a thin layer of neutral oil to maintain its seasoning and prevent future staining.

Brown stains, go away! Time to slay in the kitchen and make a mouth-watering taco skillet.

Does Vinegar Rust Cast Iron?

Vinegar can effectively remove rust from cast iron, but it should be used with caution. A common method involves creating a solution of equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. 

Submerge the rusty cast iron skillet in this mixture for no more than 8 hours, checking periodically to see if the rust is coming off. The vinegar works by reacting with the rust, making it easier to scrub away.

However, it's crucial not to leave the skillet submerged for longer than eight hours, as prolonged exposure can damage the iron itself. 

After soaking, rinse the skillet immediately with water and scrub away any remaining rust using a non-abrasive sponge or brush. Once clean, dry the skillet thoroughly and re-season it with a thin layer of oil to restore its protective coating.

Get Personalized Recommendations for Reducing Your Harmful Chemical Exposures

Reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals is an important step toward better health, but it can feel overwhelming at first. There are so many potential sources of exposure in our daily lives, from personal care products to household cleaners to cookware. 

Making changes takes time, and it's not always clear which changes will have the biggest impact on your specific situation. That's where personalized guidance can be incredibly helpful.

Million Marker's Detect & Detox Test Kit offers a way to get tailored recommendations for reducing your chemical exposures. The kit tests your urine for biomarkers of common endocrine-disrupting chemicals like phthalates, parabens, and BPA. 

Based on your results, you'll receive personalized suggestions for lifestyle changes and product swaps that can help lower your exposure levels. This targeted approach allows you to focus your efforts on the areas that matter most for your individual chemical burden. With expert guidance, you can make informed decisions about which changes to prioritize as you work towards healthier, less toxic lifestyle.

How to Clean Crud Off A Cast Iron Skillet

Cleaning buildup off a cast iron skillet is a small but significant step in your journey toward healthier cooking choices. Investing in cast iron cookware means you're choosing a non-toxic option that can last for generations with proper care. You'll soon discover that maintaining your skillet is easy and rewarding. Simply scrub away any residue with coarse salt or a gentle scrubber, rinse with hot water, and dry it thoroughly before applying a thin layer of oil. As you embrace this timeless kitchen tool, you'll find joy in cooking delicious meals that not only taste great but are also better for your health. So, have fun experimenting and enjoy the many culinary delights your cast iron skillet has to offer!

Resources

[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23308854/ 
[2] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935123023575 
[3] https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/EHP10092 
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6348874/ 
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8529509/