When it comes to maintaining your cast iron cookware, you may have heard that using soap is a no-no. But, hold on, not everyone in the know agrees with this notion. Some folks who swear by cast iron actually argue that a little suds can be a good thing. They say it helps to scrub away any stubborn grub or germs hanging out on the pan. It's worth considering if you want to keep your cast iron in prime condition and avoid any yucky surprises.
Sure, cast iron cookware is known for its durability and ability to withstand high heat, but that doesn't mean it's completely maintenance-free. Keeping it clean and properly seasoned is crucial to ensure it lasts for years to come. And, that's where the debate about using soap on cast iron comes in.
Before you swear off soap altogether, hear us out. Not everyone in the know agrees with this notion. Some seasoned cast iron users believe that a little suds can do a body good. They argue that using soap can help to scrub away stubborn food residue and bacteria that can build up on the pan. This can keep your cast iron cookware in good condition and prevent any potential health hazards.
The great cast iron debate, can you use soap or not? It's not a black and white answer, it depends on the pan and the situation.
Want to get into the nitty-gritty of it? Let's take a closer look at the types of cast iron cookware that can handle a little soap, and how to clean and maintain them the right way.
Alright, let's dive into the types of cast iron cookware that can handle a little soap action. If you've got a pan that's been well-loved and frequently used, it can handle a little soap every now and then. The key is in the seasoning, a well-seasoned pan has a layer of oil that's been cooked into the surface. This oil barrier protects the pan from rust and gives it that sought after non-stick quality. As long as your pan is well-seasoned and you use it often, the seasoning will be strong enough to withstand the occasional use of soap.
Just get a brand spanking new pan or one you've recently seasoned? It can handle a bit of soap. This is great for getting rid of any factory gunk or prepping it for its first cookout. Just don't forget, after you've given it a soapy bath, it's essential to re-season the pan to keep it rust-free and to give it that legendary non-stick quality.
When it comes to cast iron and soap, not all suds are created equal. Mild, non-abrasive soap is generally considered safe to use on cast iron cookware. It's best to avoid harsher soaps or dishwashing liquids that contain harsh chemicals or abrasives. These types of soap can strip away the seasoning on the pan and cause damage. So, choose your soap wisely when it comes to keeping your cast iron cookware in top shape.
When in doubt, a good place to check is the manufacturer's instructions. Many cast iron cookware manufacturers will have specific recommendations for cleaning and maintaining their products. By following these recommendations, you can ensure that your cast iron pan is properly cleaned and maintained without causing any damage. It's always better to be safe than sorry.
When it comes to washing your cast iron cookware, it's all about the details. One thing to keep in mind is to make sure you rinse it thoroughly and dry it completely after using soap, this way you can avoid any soap residue to be left on the pan and prevent rust from happening. It's all about paying attention to the little things to make sure your cast iron is always in tip-top shape.
On the flip side, while it might be okay to use soap on some, there are others that should be very much avoided. If you got a pan that's been sitting in the back of your cupboard for a long time or one that hasn't been seasoned in a while, it's probably best to hold off on using soap on it. The reason being, the weak seasoning on the pan might not be able to handle it and could lead to rust and a decrease in cooking performance. So, before you lather up your cast iron pan, take a moment to check its condition and make a judgement call.
Right now, you're probably thinking, "Hey Viva, if I can't use soap, what can I use to clean my cast iron cookware?" We're glad you asked! One of the most popular cleaning methods for cast iron pans is simply using salt and a sponge. Salt is abrasive enough to remove any stubborn food that may be stuck on your cookware while also gentle enough to not cause any damage. You can also use a sponge with a mixture of baking soda and water for a similar effect.
Feeling fancy? There are even specialized cast iron cleaners that will get the job done right.
Want to know another way to clean your cast iron cookware? Try using a chain mail scrubber, it's gentle enough to clean the pan without removing the seasoning, and it's effective at removing any stuck-on food.
You can also use a brush or a stiff-bristled brush to clean the pan. This will help to remove any food residue without removing the seasoning. Some folks swear by boiling water in the pan to loosen any stuck-on food, then they use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the pan clean. Give it a try and see what works best for you!
Something to keep in mind is that certain types of food should be avoided when cooking with cast iron cookware. For example, acidic foods such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, and vinegar can react with the cast iron and cause discoloration and a metallic taste. These foods should be cooked in a different type of pan or in a non-stick skillet.
One more thing to keep in mind is that cast iron cookware should be re-seasoned regularly. This can be done by rubbing a thin layer of oil onto the surface of the pan and then heating it in the oven for a few hours. This will help to maintain the non-stick quality of the pan and protect it from rust. It's like giving your cast iron a spa day, it'll thank you for it.
Whether you choose whether to soap your cast iron cookware or not, there is one absolute truth we can all agree on. Never, ever clean your cast iron in the dishwasher. The heat and harsh detergents used in dishwashers can be damaging and can strip away the seasoning. Instead, it's best to give it a good old fashioned hand-wash with warm water and a mild detergent if needed.
Using soap on cast iron cookware is a hot topic with hard stances on both sides of the debate. But the general rule of thumb is that well-seasoned and frequently used pans can handle a little soap, and new or recently seasoned pans can be cleaned with soap before first use, but older or infrequently used pans that aren't well-seasoned should be avoided from using soap.
Always check the manufacturer's instructions and the color of the pan before using soap on your cast iron cookware, and avoid using harsh soaps or dishwashing liquids that contain harsh chemicals or abrasives. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your cast iron cookware.
Remember to rinse and dry your pan thoroughly after washing and to re-season it regularly to maintain its non-stick quality. Also, alternative cleaning methods can be used to clean cast iron cookware, such as using salt, baking soda, a chain mail scrubber, or a stiff-bristled brush, avoiding certain types of acidic foods when cooking with cast iron. With a bit of TLC, your cast iron cookware can last many years and will be a great addition to your kitchen.
To soap or not to soap? That is the question! Let us know in the comments below which side of the debate you fall on but remember to be polite…we’re all friends here!
Did this help you decide how to help your cast iron cookware live its best life! If you did, consider following us on Twitter, Instagram or going all out and signing up for our newsletter (It’s FREE!)
