Cast iron is not fragile, but it does like a specific routine. Here is how to clean a cast iron skillet after cooking, what to do about stuck-on food and rust, and the one step that prevents most problems: drying it on the stove.
The Short Answer
While the pan is still warm, rinse with hot water and scrub with a brush or scraper. A small amount of mild dish soap is fine. For stuck-on bits, scrub with coarse salt. Dry immediately on the stove, then rub in a few drops of oil.
Everyday Cleaning
- Let the pan cool until it is warm, not scorching.
- Rinse with hot water and scrub with a stiff natural dish brush or chain mail scrubber.
- Use a drop of mild dish soap if needed.
- Dry with a cotton waffle towel, then heat on the stove for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Rub in 1/2 teaspoon of neutral oil and wipe off the excess.
Stuck-On Food
Pour in 2 tablespoons of coarse kosher salt with a splash of oil and scrub with a folded paper towel. For really stubborn bits, simmer a little water in the pan for 3 to 5 minutes, then scrape with a wooden spatula.
How to Remove Rust
Scrub the rust with steel wool until the bare iron shows, wash, dry completely, then re-season in the oven. Our cast iron seasoning guide walks through it.
Can You Use Soap on Cast Iron?
Yes. Modern dish soap is mild and will not strip polymerized seasoning. What damages cast iron is soaking, the dishwasher and leaving it wet.
Never Do These
- Soak it in the sink.
- Put it in the dishwasher.
- Let it air dry.
- Store it with a lid on, which traps moisture.
Equipment I Used
- Large airtight food storage container: for leftovers and freezer portions.
New to slow cooking? The Easy Slow Cooker Recipes guide is a beginner-friendly collection of easy crockpot breakfasts and dinners.
Clean a Cast Iron Skillet FAQ
Can you wash cast iron with soap?
Yes, a small amount of mild dish soap is fine. Avoid soaking and harsh scouring on seasoned surfaces.
How do you clean cast iron with salt?
Pour in coarse salt with a splash of oil, scrub with a paper towel, rinse, dry and oil.
Why is my cast iron rusting?
It was left wet or stored in a humid spot. Always dry on the stove and oil lightly.
How do you clean burnt cast iron?
Simmer water to loosen it, scrape, scrub with salt, then dry and oil. Re-season if the surface looks dull.
