Caring for Cast Iron Cookware

Learn how to season a cast iron pan properly with this step-by-step guide! Find out the best oils to use, how to clean cast iron, and tips for keeping your pan rust-free.

Why Does Cast Iron Need Seasoning?

Unlike non-stick pans, cast iron doesn’t come with a ready-made coating (unless it’s pre-seasoned). Instead, it relies on a process called polymerization, where oil is baked onto the pan’s surface at high heat, forming a smooth, black patina.

Caring for cast iron cookware might seem like a chore, but it’s easier than you think—and completely worth the effort.

A well-seasoned cast iron pan can last a lifetime, offering a naturally non-stick surface, even heat distribution, and the versatility to cook everything from crispy roasted vegetables to delicious cobblers.

In this post, you’ll learn how to season a cast iron pan, the best oil to use, how to clean and care for it, and what to do if rust appears. Whether you’re a cast iron newbie or looking to perfect your technique, these tips will help you maintain your cookware for years to come.

What Does It Mean to Season Cast Iron?

The first step in caring for a new cast iron pan is seasoning. This process builds up a protective, non-stick layer that prevents rust and improves cooking performance over time.

How to Clean and Care for Cast Iron

Proper care ensures your cast iron stays in top condition for years to come. Here’s how to maintain it:

Cleaning Cast Iron (Without Stripping the Seasoning)

• Never use soap (except in rare cases when re-seasoning a rusty pan).
• Use hot water and a stiff scrub brush to clean the pan immediately after use.
• For stubborn food residue, scrub with coarse salt and a little water instead of soap.
• Avoid soaking—prolonged exposure to water can cause rust.
• Dry immediately and thoroughly, using a towel or placing it over low heat.

Preventing Rust on Cast Iron

After each use, apply a light coat of oil to keep the seasoning intact.

• Never air-dry; always towel-dry or heat-dry your pan.
• Store it in a dry place, ensuring no moisture lingers.
• If stacking multiple pans, place a paper towel between them.

Why Cook with Cast Iron?

There are many advantages to cooking in cast iron. In fact, the only disadvantage I can think of is that the pans are heavy—but that’s a small trade-off for a cookware piece that lasts a lifetime.

Seasoned Cast Iron is Naturally Non-Stick

Besides being beautiful, cast iron pans that have been properly seasoned and cared for can offer you a chemical-free non-stick surface to cook on.

Cast Iron is a Good Investment Piece

Because they don’t contain a chemical non-stick coating, there’s no need to toss out a pan the way you’d discard a Teflon-coated pan after a few years.

They’re incredibly sturdy, too. A well-maintained cast iron pan will likely outlive you. For a relatively small price, you’ve purchased a pan that you can one day hand down as a family heirloom.

Cast Iron Promotes Even Cooking

Sure, a cast iron skillet takes longer to heat, but it retains heat exceptionally well—providing even, consistent cooking throughout the pan.

Cast Iron is a Versatile Piece of Cookware

One of my favorite aspects of cast iron is its versatility. It can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, and even over an open flame, unlike traditional coated non-stick pans.

Cast Iron Recipes

Skillet Meals are one of my favorite things to cook in cast iron; I love when I can start and finish the recipe in the same pan because it creates less dishes!

• Skillet meals like this recipe for Italian Chicken, Mushroom, and Zucchini Skillet, One Skillet Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce, Baked Honey Mustard Chicken, or these Apple Cider Pork Chops with Caramelized Apples are great cooked in cast iron.

Roasted Vegetables turn out great in cast iron because the cast iron gives them a nicely browned crust – try it and compare to veggies roasted on a baking sheet!

• Try these Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Sage, Honey Roasted Carrots, or Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic for some yummy veggie recipes cooked in cast iron. These are all kid favorites in our house!

Greasy foods that will give your seasoning an extra boost.

• I always cook Homemade Bacon Bits in cast iron because cast iron works great for cooking in the oven. Cooking bacon in cast iron also helps add to the seasoning thanks to the fat rendered during the cooking process.

Desserts – yes, you can cook dessert in cast iron!

• Cobblers, like this Black Cherry Pomegranate Cobbler work great in cast iron pans and always remind me of making cast iron cobblers while camping when I was a kid.
• Brownies, like my Easy Homemade Fudgy Brownies, can be cooked up in a cast iron pan. A 9 inch cast iron skillet about would be the right size to use in place of an 8×8 pan. Smaller cast iron pans are fun for individual brownies.

Common Cast Iron Questions

Got questions about cast iron care? Here are answers to some of the most common ones. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to leave a comment below—I’m happy to help!

Can I use soap to clean my cast iron pan?

It’s best to avoid soap as it can strip the seasoning. Instead, use hot water and a stiff brush. For stubborn residue, scrub with kosher salt and a little warm water—it’s an effective, seasoning-safe method!

What’s the best way to remove rust from cast iron?

Use steel wool to scrub away rust, then wash the pan with hot water and soap (only this time), dry it thoroughly, and re-season immediately to restore the protective layer.

Why is my cast iron pan sticky after seasoning?

A sticky surface usually means too much oil was applied. Try using a thinner layer next time and baking at a slightly higher temperature to help it polymerize better!

How often should I season my cast iron pan?

A new pan may need seasoning a few times initially. After that, regular cooking with oil-rich foods like bacon or fried potatoes will help maintain the seasoning.

Join the Cast Iron Conversation!

Love cooking with cast iron? If you found this guide helpful, let me know in the comments!

Share your favorite cast iron recipes, tips, or ask any questions—I’d love to hear from you. Plus, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @goodlifeeats for more kitchen tips and recipes!

More Useful Kitchen Tips to Try

• How to Open a Jar with a Tight Lid – Stubborn lids can be frustrating! Try these six proven techniques to get that jar open effortlessly.
• How to Fill Muffin Tins the Easy Way – No more mess! This simple trick ensures perfectly portioned cupcakes and muffins every time.
• How to Use an Electric Knife Sharpener – Sharpening knives can seem daunting, but this guide will walk you through the process so your blades stay razor-sharp.
• How to Grease and Flour a Pan – Prevent sticking and ensure even baking with these easy greasing and flouring techniques.

Don’t see what you’re looking for here? You can always head over to check out the recipe index to look for more recipes.

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Taking care of cast iron is simple once you know the basics. Have your own cast iron tips or experiences? Share them in the comments—I love hearing from you!