Introduction
Clean Lodge cast iron cookware is a great option for both experienced and novice cooks. Its stellar heat distribution and even cooking makes it an excellent choice for all types of recipes. Plus, the hefty construction stands up to daily use, while the porcelain enameled surface requires little more than warm water and soap for cleaning. With proper care and seasoning, clean Lodge cast iron can last a lifetime. Here are some tips to help keep your lodge cookware in great condition.
Overview of how to clean lodge cast iron cookware
The first step to keeping your Lodge cast iron pans clean is to avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive scrubbers on them. Instead, just use warm water and mild soap to remove any food residues. After washing, make sure to dry the pans thoroughly with a kitchen towel.
If there are stubborn bits of food stuck on your cast iron pan, you can use a stiff brush or coarse salt to gently scrub them away without damaging the surface. It is important not to soak Lodge cookware in water for long periods of time. Doing so can cause rust and weaken the pan’s seasoning.
Once the cookware is clean, you should season your cast iron with oil to prevent rust and keep food from sticking. To do this, heat the pan over a low flame for several minutes. Then, coat it with a thin layer of vegetable oil or melted lard and let it cool. The oil will soak in, leaving a protective coating on the surface. You should repeat this process every few months to keep your Lodge pans well-seasoned.
Finally, you can store your cast iron cookware either hanging or stacked in a dry location. Make sure that the pieces are not stored too close together, as this could cause them to scratch each other. With these tips in mind, your Lodge cast iron cookware will stay looking and working like new for years to come.
10 ways of how to clean lodge cast iron
Let the Cast Iron Cool Down
Before attempting to clean your cast iron pan, be sure to let it cool down completely.
Use Hot Water and a Soft Brush
Soaking your cast iron pan in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes can help loosen stubborn bits of food. Use a sponge, stiff brush, or coarse salt to scrub away any food particles that are still stuck to the pan. Be careful not to use too much pressure when cleaning, as this could damage the pan’s seasoning.
Using hot water and a soft brush is the most gentle way to clean your cast iron cookware. This method works best for removing cooked-on bits of food.
Add Mild Dish Soap if Needed
If the pan is particularly dirty, you can add a teaspoon of mild dish soap to the hot water and use a soft brush for scrubbing.
Rinse with Hot Water
Once you’ve finished scrubbing, make sure to rinse the pan with hot water and dry it thoroughly with a kitchen towel.
Dry Thoroughly
Leaving your pan wet can cause rust and weaken the seasoning. Make sure to dry it completely before storing or re-seasoning it.
Apply a Thin Layer of Oil
Before storing or re-using the pan, you should apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rust and keep food from sticking. To do this, heat the pan over a low flame for several minutes. Then, coat it with a thin layer of vegetable oil or melted lard and let it cool. The oil will soak in, leaving a protective coating on the surface.
Place in a Preheated Oven
To further season your cast iron pan, you can place it in a preheated oven for about an hour. This will help to create a strong layer of seasoning on the pan, which will prevent rust and make it easier to clean.
Remove from Oven and Let Cool
Once the hour is up, be sure to remove your pan from the oven and let it cool completely before using or storing.
Wipe off Excess Oil
When the pan is cool, you can wipe off any excess oil with a paper towel to prevent it from building up over time.
Store in a Dry Place
Once you’ve finished seasoning your cast iron pan, it’s important to store it in a dry place. Make sure that the pieces are not stored too close together, as this could cause them to scratch each other.
Conclusion
Taking proper care of your cast iron cookware will help it last for many years. Be sure to clean and season the pan regularly, and store it in a dry place. With these simple tips, your Lodge cast iron cookware will stay looking and working like new for years to come.
