How to Clean Iron Cookware

Iron cookware is perhaps the most durable cookware you can have in your kitchen. If taken care of properly, it is also a great asset to your culinary skills. Iron cookware is strong and sturdy, nonstick, heats evenly, and retains heat long after it is removed from the stove top. Cleaning iron cookware is a simple process that's more than worth the minimal effort.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dish soap Clean sponge or cloth Plastic scouring pad Baking soda Soft, clean, dry towel

1. Wash the cookware out after each use with warm soapy water and a clean sponge or cloth.

2. Use a plastic scouring pad to help dislodge any food that may have cooled and adhered to the cookware.

3. Scrub away stubborn stains with baking soda and water. Mix the two in equal parts, adding more of one or the other as needed until it is the consistency of paste.

4. Dry iron cookware thoroughly with a clean, dry towel before putting it away and never let it air dry; residual water left on the cookware may lead to rust.

Tips & Warnings

• Iron cookware that is cracked will no longer heat food effectively and should be thrown out. Season new iron cookware before using it to help protect it. Wipe it thoroughly with a paper towel dipped in cooking oil and "bake" it in the oven at 350 degrees for an hour.
• To avoid serious burns, always use a potholder to move the pan while it is in use or immediately after. Let the pan cool before washing it. Do not place the pan in an automatic dishwasher. This may remove the seasoning.

References

• How to Clean Cast Iron Cookware
• Cast Iron Cookware