How to Care for Your Cast Iron Skillet: Cleaning, Seasoning, and Storage

Quick answer

Proper cast iron skillet care boils down to three habits: clean it right after cooking with hot water and a stiff brush, season it with a thin layer of oil whenever the surface looks dull, and store it in a dry place with a breathable cover. Follow these steps consistently, and your skillet will become more nonstick over time.

Cast iron skillets are prized for their heat retention and natural nonstick surface, but they do require a bit of attention to stay in top shape. The good news is that caring for cast iron is straightforward once you understand the basics: cleaning, seasoning, and storing. With the right routine, your skillet can last for generations.

In this guide, we'll walk you through each step, highlight common mistakes to avoid, and share product recommendations that make maintenance easier. Whether you're a new owner or a seasoned cook, these tips will help you keep your skillet performing at its best.

Why Cast Iron Care Matters

Cast iron is durable, but it's also reactive. Without proper care, it can rust, and food can stick to the surface. The key to a nonstick skillet is a well-maintained seasoning layer—a polymerized oil coating that forms a natural barrier. This layer develops over time with regular use and proper maintenance.

Understanding the 'why' behind each care step helps you make better decisions. For example, you might wonder why you shouldn't use soap or why you need to dry the skillet thoroughly. The answers lie in protecting that seasoning and preventing moisture from causing rust.

• Always dry your cast iron immediately after washing to prevent rust.
• Avoid soaking cast iron in water for extended periods.
• Re-season only when the surface looks dull or food starts to stick.

How to Clean Your Cast Iron Skillet

Cleaning cast iron is simpler than you might think. For everyday cleaning, use hot water and a stiff brush to remove food residue. Avoid soap if possible, as it can strip the seasoning, though a small amount of mild dish soap is acceptable if needed. The key is to avoid harsh scrubbing pads that can damage the surface.

After washing, dry the skillet thoroughly with a towel or by placing it on a warm stove. The goal is to remove all moisture to prevent rust. Some cooks prefer to heat the skillet briefly to ensure it's completely dry. Once dry, apply a very thin layer of oil to the surface to protect the seasoning.

• Use a brush with stiff bristles, like the Natural Fiber Cleaning Brush, to scrub without scratching.



• If food is stuck, boil a little water in the skillet to loosen it before scrubbing.
• Never put your cast iron in the dishwasher—it will ruin the seasoning.

How to Season Your Cast Iron Skillet

Seasoning is the process of baking oil onto the surface to create a nonstick layer. To season, clean the skillet, dry it completely, and rub a thin layer of oil (like vegetable or flaxseed oil) over the entire surface, inside and out. Then, place it upside down in an oven at 350-400°F for about an hour. Let it cool in the oven to finish the process.

You don't need to season your skillet every time you cook. Instead, season when the surface looks dull or when food starts to stick. Regular cooking with oil also helps maintain the seasoning. If you notice rust spots, scrub them off and re-season the affected area.

• Use a paper towel to apply a thin, even layer of oil—excess oil can become sticky.
• Place a baking sheet under the skillet in the oven to catch any drips.
• Seasoning is not a one-time task; it's an ongoing process that improves with use.

Storing Your Cast Iron Skillet

Proper storage prevents rust and keeps your skillet ready for the next use. Store your cast iron in a dry place, away from moisture. If you stack skillets, place a paper towel between them to absorb any moisture and prevent scratches. Avoid covering with a tight lid, as trapped moisture can lead to rust.

If you have a skillet with a matching lid, like the No.10 Skillet & Lid Set, store the lid separately or with a breathable cover. The goal is to allow air circulation while protecting the surface from dust and humidity.

• Always ensure the skillet is completely dry before storing.
• Consider hanging your skillet if you have wall space—it keeps it accessible and prevents stacking damage.
• In humid climates, add a silica gel packet to your storage area to absorb excess moisture.

Step-by-Step Cast Iron Care Routine

1. Clean after every use: Wash with hot water and a stiff brush. Avoid soap when possible and never use steel wool. Dry immediately with a towel. Checkpoint: The surface should be free of food particles and moisture.
2. Apply a thin layer of oil: Once dry, rub a small amount of cooking oil over the entire surface using a paper towel. This protects the seasoning and prevents rust. Checkpoint: The skillet should look lightly oiled, not greasy.
3. Store in a dry place: Keep your skillet in a dry cabinet or on a hook. If stacking, place a paper towel between pieces to absorb moisture. Checkpoint: No signs of rust or moisture when you take it out next time.

Recommended Products for Cast Iron Care

• Natural Fiber Cleaning Brush: A hefty 4-inch kitchen brush with an oiled beech wood handle and stiff natural union fiber bristles well-suited to cleaning cast iron cookware. This brush provides the right stiffness to scrub away food residue without scratching your skillet's seasoning, making it a practical tool for daily cleaning.
• No.6 Cast Iron Skillet: This 8 3⁄8 inch skillet is perfect for scrambled eggs for two, a single grilled sandwich, or a small batch of cornbread. Smoother—Polished cooking surface that comes pre-seasoned and develops nonstick layers as you cook. A smooth, pre-seasoned surface like this one is easier to maintain and more resistant to sticking, which means less effort when cleaning and seasoning.

Caring for your cast iron skillet doesn't have to be complicated. With a simple routine of cleaning, seasoning, and proper storage, you'll enjoy a nonstick surface and rust-free cooking for years. Remember, the more you use your skillet, the better it gets—so don't be afraid to put it to work.