What To Know
- To protect the skillet from rust, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the entire surface of the skillet.
- Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the skillet and heat it over medium heat on the stovetop until the oil is hot and shimmering.
- You should use a stiff-bristled brush or scouring pad and hot soapy water to clean your cast iron skillet.
Cast iron skillets are a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. They’re durable, versatile, and can last for generations with proper care. However, cleaning a new cast iron skillet can be a bit daunting if you’re not sure how to do it properly. Don’t worry, though! We’re here to help. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of cleaning your new Lodge cast iron skillet so you can start cooking delicious meals in no time.
What You’ll Need
Before you start cleaning your new cast iron skillet, you’ll need to gather a few supplies:
- A stiff-bristled brush or scouring pad
- Dish soap
- Hot water
- A clean towel
- Vegetable oil (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Remove the Factory Seasoning
New cast iron skillets come with a factory-applied seasoning to prevent rust. This seasoning needs to be removed before you can use the skillet for cooking. To do this, simply scrub the skillet with a stiff-bristled brush or scouring pad and hot soapy water. Rinse the skillet thoroughly and dry it with a clean towel.
2. Scrub the Skillet
Once the factory seasoning has been removed, scrub the skillet again with a stiff-bristled brush or scouring pad and hot soapy water. This will remove any remaining dirt or debris. Rinse the skillet thoroughly and dry it with a clean towel.
3. Apply a Thin Layer of Oil
To protect the skillet from rust, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the entire surface of the skillet. You can use a paper towel or your fingers to apply the oil. Wipe off any excess oil.
4. Heat the Skillet
Place the skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Heat the skillet until the oil is hot and shimmering. Let the skillet cool completely.
5. Repeat Steps 3-4
Repeat steps 3-4 several times to build up a good layer of seasoning. The more times you repeat these steps, the better the seasoning will be.
Tips for Maintaining Your Cast Iron Skillet
- Always hand-wash your cast iron skillet with hot soapy water.
- Never use harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners on your cast iron skillet.
- Dry your cast iron skillet thoroughly with a clean towel after washing it.
- Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the skillet after each use to protect it from rust.
- Store your cast iron skillet in a dry place.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
My cast iron skillet is rusty.
If your cast iron skillet is rusty, don’t panic! Rust can be removed with a little elbow grease. Simply scrub the skillet with a stiff-bristled brush or scouring pad and hot soapy water. Rinse the skillet thoroughly and dry it with a clean towel. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the skillet and heat it over medium heat on the stovetop until the oil is hot and shimmering. Let the skillet cool completely. Repeat these steps until the rust is gone.
My cast iron skillet is sticky.
If your cast iron skillet is sticky, it’s probably because there’s too much oil on the surface. To fix this, simply wipe off the excess oil with a paper towel. You can also heat the skillet over medium heat on the stovetop until the oil is hot and shimmering. Let the skillet cool completely. This will help to polymerize the oil and create a more durable seasoning.
My cast iron skillet is not cooking evenly.
If your cast iron skillet is not cooking evenly, it’s probably because the heat is not being distributed evenly. To fix this, make sure that the skillet is preheated over medium heat on the stovetop before adding food. You can also try using a heat diffuser to help distribute the heat more evenly.
FAQs
How often should I clean my cast iron skillet?
You should clean your cast iron skillet after each use. This will help to prevent rust and build up a good layer of seasoning.
What should I use to clean my cast iron skillet?
You should use a stiff-bristled brush or scouring pad and hot soapy water to clean your cast iron skillet. Never use harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners.
How can I tell if my cast iron skillet is properly seasoned?
A properly seasoned cast iron skillet will have a dark, matte finish. The surface of the skillet will be smooth and free of any rust or pits.
Summary: Enjoy Your Cast Iron Skillet!
Now that you know how to clean and maintain your new Lodge cast iron skillet, you can start cooking delicious meals for years to come. Cast iron skillets are a great investment, and with proper care, they will last for generations. So what are you waiting for? Start cooking!
