How to Clean Oil Stains From a Cast Iron Pan
Cast iron is widely used in cookware due to its ability to withstand and maintain high cooking temperatures. Seasoning is used to create a non-stick surface and to protect the cast iron from rust. A layer of corn oil or melted lard is applied to the inside of the pan to create the seasoning. If the seasoning of the pan becomes worn, stains, including oil, may form on the pan. A few common household items can be used to remove oil stains from a cast iron pan. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Cooking pot
- Nylon scrubber
- Spatula
- Salt
- Comet
- Steel wool pad
- Mild dishwashing soap
- Soft cloth
- Corn oil
Instructions
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1
Boil water in a separate cooking pot.
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2
Pour boiling water over the oil stain in the cast iron pan. The temperature of the water will break up the oil stain.
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3
Scrub the oil stain buildup away with a nylon scrubber. Continue to apply boiling water to the stain and scrubbing with a nylon scrubber until the stain comes out. If the stain still remains, use a more abrasive cleaner such as salt.
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4
Pour the boiling water out and pour a tablespoon of salt into the pan. Scrub the stain away with a nylon scrubber. If the stain still remains, apply a chemical cleaner such as Comet.
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5
Sprinkle Comet on the bottom of the pan. Add a small amount of water and scrub the oil stain away with a steel wool pad.
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6
Rinse the pan using mild dishwashing soap and warm water to remove any remaining buildup residue. Dry the pan with a soft cloth.
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7
Re-season the pan with corn oil or melted lard.
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Tips & Warnings
Dry the cast iron immediately after it has been rinsed. It will rust if left wet.
