How to Clean a Cast Iron Pan & Skillet

Cast iron pans are amazing for cooking! They can be used on the stove, in the oven, or even on the grill. Plus, they last a very long time — some people even pass them down to their kids and grandkids!

But to keep your cast iron skillet working well, you have to clean it the right way. If you don’t, it can get rusty or lose its smooth, non-stick surface. The good news is that cleaning a cast iron pan is easy once you know how.

In this guide, you’ll learn simple steps to take care of your skillet so it stays in great shape for years to come.

How to Clean a Cast Iron Pan & Skillet

To preserve its non-stick coating and avoid rust, make sure to clean it thoroughly after every use. Follow these steps:

1. Scrub with warm water: Right after cooking, while your pan is still warm (but not too hot to handle), rinse it under warm water. Use a soft sponge to scrub away food bits. Avoid soaking your pan. Leaving it in water too long can cause rust.
2. Use salt for stubborn residue: If food is sticking, sprinkle a handful of coarse salt into the pan and scrub gently with a damp sponge or cloth. The salt acts as a natural scrubber, which helps to lift stuck-on bits without damaging the seasoning.
3. Boil away tough spots: For really stubborn messes, pour a small amount of water into the pan and bring it to a simmer on the stove. The heat will loosen any stuck food. Once the water evaporates, give it one last scrub.

Some people believe you should never use soap on cast iron, but a little mild dish soap won’t ruin it. Just avoid harsh scouring pads or dishwashers.

How to Dry a Cast Iron Pan & Skillet

Drying your cast iron skillet the right way is just as important as cleaning it. Leaving any moisture on the surface can lead to rust, which can ruin your pan over time. The best method? Using your stovetop!

Follow these simple steps:

1. Wipe away excess water: Use a clean towel or paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps speed up the drying process.
2. Heat on the stovetop: Place the pan over low to medium heat on your stove. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until all remaining moisture has evaporated.
3. Let it cool: Turn off the heat and allow the skillet to cool slightly before handling.

For extra care, give the pan one final wipe with a dry cloth to make sure there’s no lingering moisture.

How to Re-Season Cast Iron After Washing

Seasoning helps build up a protective layer that enhances the pan's performance over time. Here’s how to do it:

1. Apply a thin layer of oil: Rub a very light coating of cooking oil all over the pan, including the inside, outside, and handle. Oils high in unsaturated fats, such as algae oil, work well for seasoning because they spread easily and polymerize effectively. Other options include avocado oil and coconut oil.
2. Wipe off excess oil: Use a paper towel to wipe away any excess oil, so that only a thin, even layer remains. The surface should not feel greasy or sticky.

Once your cast iron pan is seasoned and completely cool, store it in a dry place to prevent moisture buildup and rust.

What Not to Do When Cleaning a Cast Iron

Taking care of your cast iron pan properly will help it last for years, but there are a few mistakes you should avoid.

One of the biggest is soaking it in water for too long. While it might seem like an easy way to loosen stuck-on food, too much water exposure can cause rust. Instead, wash your pan soon after cooking and dry it completely.

Another common mistake is using too much soap. While a little bit of soap won’t ruin your pan, scrubbing it with too much can strip away the seasoning — the protective layer that keeps food from sticking.

When cleaning cast iron, avoid harsh scrubbing tools like steel wool or rough pads. These can scratch off the seasoning, which makes food stick and causes the pan to lose its non-stick quality.

The type of oil you use for seasoning also matters. Avoid oils with low smoke points, like butter or extra virgin olive oil, because they can burn easily and leave behind a sticky, uneven coating. Instead, choose oils with high smoke points, such as algae oil or avocado oil. They help create a smooth, durable seasoning layer.

Long-Care Term & Maintenance Tips

Taking care of your cast iron pan properly will help it last for generations. With a few simple steps, you can keep it clean, rust-free, and ready to use whenever you need it. Follow these tips:

• After cooking, always clean your cast iron pan while it’s still warm. Old food and oil can leave behind smells and flavors that may affect your next meal. A clean pan means better-tasting food.
• Proper storage helps keep your cast iron in good shape. Always store it in a dry place to prevent rust. If you need to stack it with other pans, place a paper towel or cloth between them to protect the seasoning.
• Over time, your cast iron pan may start to lose its non-stick surface. If food begins to stick or the pan looks dull, it’s time to re-season it. To do this, rub a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil, like algae oil, all over the pan, including the handle. Then, bake it upside down in a 450–500°F (230–260°C) oven for an hour. Let it cool completely before using.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some common questions to keep your pan in the best shape possible.

Do I need to clean my cast iron after every use?

Yes! Cleaning your cast iron after each use prevents food buildup, rust, and unwanted flavors. Always dry the pan immediately and apply a light layer of oil to protect the seasoning.

What’s the best oil to use to re-season a cast iron?

Oils with high smoke points work best for seasoning because they form a strong, non-stick coating. Good options include algae oil and avocado oil.

How often should I season my cast iron?

​​If your pan is well-maintained, you don’t need to season it often. However, if food starts sticking or the surface looks dull, it’s a good idea to re-season it.

Other signs to watch for include rust spots, which indicate the protective layer has worn away, and an uneven or flaky coating that feels rough instead of smooth. A dull, gray appearance or a sticky surface can also mean the seasoning is breaking down.

Why does my cast iron keep rusting?

Rust forms when cast iron is exposed to moisture for too long. To prevent this, always dry your pan thoroughly after washing and apply a thin layer of oil before storing. Avoid soaking it in water, and never leave it damp or in a humid environment.

Can I put my cast iron in the dishwasher?

No. The dishwasher exposes cast iron to prolonged moisture and harsh detergents, which can strip away the seasoning and cause rust. Always wash your pan by hand using warm water and a brush, then dry and oil it immediately to keep it in great condition.

The Bottom Line

Regular cleaning, thorough drying, and occasional seasoning will ensure your cast iron skillet lasts for years. Whether you’re cooking a sizzling steak, fluffy pancakes, or crispy cornbread, a well-maintained skillet delivers excellent heat distribution and enhances the flavor of every meal!

For both seasoning and cooking, algae oil from Algae Cooking Club is an excellent choice. Its high smoke point makes it perfect for maintaining your pan’s non-stick surface, while its heart-healthy fats and neutral flavor make it ideal for preparing delicious, nutritious meals.

Upgrade your cast iron care routine and your cooking experience with algae oil — your skillet (and your taste buds) will thank you!