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Cast iron cookware is a timeless kitchen essential, known for its durability, excellent heat retention, and ability to develop a natural non-stick surface over time. Many people believe that cast iron should never be washed with soap and water, but this is a myth. With proper care, cast iron pans can last for generations, just like the two well-loved pans in this story—one 46 years old and another an impressive 90 years old.

In this guide, learn how to maintain your cast iron cookware, why soap and water are perfectly fine to use, and how to make a homemade oven cleaner that also works wonders on cast iron.

Proper Care for Cast Iron Pans

Caring for cast iron is simpler than many think. Here’s how you can keep your pans in top condition for a lifetime:

1. Daily Use and Cleaning

  • Cast iron pans can be used multiple times a day without losing their non-stick properties.
  • Contrary to popular belief, washing cast iron with hot water and Dawn dish soap is safe. It helps remove grease and food residue without stripping the seasoning.
  • After washing, always towel-dry the pan immediately to prevent rust.

2. Seasoning Your Cast Iron

  • Many cast iron users re-season their pans frequently, but this isn’t always necessary. In fact, some well-maintained pans only need to be seasoned once every 10 years.
  • To season, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or flaxseed oil to the pan, then bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for an hour. Allow it to cool before storing.
  • The more you cook with cast iron, the better the seasoning will become, creating a natural, slick surface that prevents sticking.

3. Cooking with Cast Iron

  • Properly seasoned cast iron prevents food from sticking. Even delicate foods like eggs can slide right out without trouble.
  • Use the pan for frying, baking, searing, or even making desserts like cornbread and cakes.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to acidic foods like tomatoes, which can strip seasoning over time.

Homemade Cast Iron and Oven Cleaner

Keeping cast iron looking great doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals. This DIY cleaner is perfect for cast iron, ovens, stovetops, cookie sheets, and cake pans. It effortlessly cuts through grease and grime, making cleaning quick and easy.

Ingredients for DIY Oven & Cast Iron Cleaner:

  • 1/4 cup Dawn dish soap
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • 1 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.
  2. Spray generously onto the surface of your cast iron, stovetop, or oven.
  3. Let it sit for 5 minutes to break down grease and residue.
  4. Wipe clean with a damp cloth or scrub lightly with a sponge.
  5. Rinse and dry immediately.

This simple yet powerful homemade cleaner saves time and effort while keeping your cookware and kitchen surfaces spotless.

Why Cast Iron Lasts for Generations

The key to a cast iron pan’s longevity is consistent use and proper care. Unlike modern non-stick pans that wear out over time, cast iron only gets better with age. A well-seasoned cast iron pan can outlive its owner, passed down through generations as a treasured kitchen tool.

With the right cleaning and maintenance, cast iron becomes a versatile, virtually indestructible kitchen essential. Whether your pan is brand new or over a century old, following these tips will ensure it remains in perfect condition for years to come.

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