If you’re wondering how to clean a cast iron skillet without damaging its seasoning or making it rust, you’re not alone. I’ve been there—scrubbing too hard, using the wrong soap, or drying it carelessly. A well-seasoned cast iron pan is a kitchen treasure, and with just a little care, it can last for generations. In this guide, I’m walking you through the easiest and most effective way to clean your skillet while keeping it in tip-top shape.
Why Cast Iron Skillets Need Special Cleaning
You can’t treat a cast iron pan like your average non-stick skillet. Cast iron skillets are durable, but their seasoning—the layer of baked-on oil—makes them special. That layer creates a natural non-stick surface and prevents rust. Using harsh chemicals or letting water sit too long on the pan can strip this layer and ruin the skillet’s performance.
Clean a Cast Iron Skillet After Everyday Use
Cleaning your skillet right after cooking is the best way to keep it in good shape. I’m sharing my go-to method that works for daily messes like eggs, veggies, or seared meats.
What You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy tools—just a few basic kitchen items:
- A sponge or stiff brush
- Warm water
- A little coarse salt (if needed)
- Paper towels or a dry dish cloth
- A bit of cooking oil (like vegetable or canola oil)
Steps to Clean a Cast Iron Skillet
Here’s what I usually do after cooking, even if there’s some stuck-on food.
- Rinse the skillet while it’s still warm. Avoid using soap unless it’s absolutely necessary.
- Scrub gently with a brush or sponge. If food sticks, sprinkle a bit of kosher salt and use that as a gentle abrasive.
- Dry it completely. I always use a paper towel, then warm the skillet on low heat for a minute to make sure it’s bone dry.
- Rub in a light coat of oil. This step maintains the seasoning. I grab a paper towel, add a drop of oil, and buff it until there’s no greasy residue.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Cast Iron
Some cleaning habits might seem harmless, but they can cause real damage. I’ve learned the hard way—so here’s what not to do.
- Don’t soak your skillet in water.
- Skip the dishwasher. It’s way too harsh.
- Never use steel wool or metal scouring pads.
- Avoid dish soap unless you’re planning to re-season the pan.
Dealing With Stuck-On Food or Gunk
If you’ve got a skillet with stubborn food that won’t budge, here’s how I tackle it.
Deep-Cleaning Tips for Cast Iron
Every now and then, your skillet might need a deeper clean. Here’s what works for me without wrecking the seasoning.
- Sprinkle coarse salt into the pan and scrub with a damp cloth or paper towel.
- For really tough gunk, boil a little water in the skillet to loosen the bits.
- After deep cleaning, don’t forget to dry it and rub in a little oil.
How to Restore a Rusty Cast Iron Skillet
If your skillet has rust, don’t toss it—restore it. I’ve brought back pans that looked hopeless using this simple method.
Steps to Remove Rust and Re-Season
Restoring isn’t hard, but it takes a little love and elbow grease.
- Scrub the rust off with steel wool until the surface is bare metal.
- Rinse and dry it immediately.
- Coat the pan with a thin layer of oil.
- Bake it upside down in the oven at 450°F (with a sheet of foil underneath to catch drips) for about an hour.
- Let it cool in the oven and repeat if needed.
How to Store a Cast Iron Skillet Properly
Proper storage can make all the difference in preventing rust. I always follow these tips, especially in humid kitchens.
Best Practices for Storage
- Dry thoroughly before storing—seriously, even one drop of water can cause rust.
- Store in a dry place with good air circulation.
- If stacking with other pans, place a paper towel between them.
Why Cleaning a Cast Iron Skillet is Worth It
Taking a few extra minutes to clean your skillet right is totally worth it. I’ve had one cast iron pan for over ten years, and it just keeps getting better with age. The more you use it and care for it, the more non-stick and flavorful it becomes.
So whether you’re frying eggs, searing steak, or baking cornbread, a well-maintained skillet can seriously level up your cooking game.
Got Questions?
- Have you ever accidentally ruined a cast iron skillet and tried to bring it back to life?
- What’s your favorite meal to cook in your cast iron pan?
- Do you have a cleaning trick that works like magic for tough messes?