How to Care for Enameled Cast Iron Cookware

If you’re curious about cleaning Le Creuset cookware, you’re in the right place. This premium French brand of enameled cast iron includes durable pieces like oven-safe skillets and Dutch ovens. Not only are they long-lasting, but their enamel coating makes them easier to maintain and non-stick. Plus, they come in a variety of colors. The Le Creuset skillet, for example, is a favorite among chefs for frying.

Whether you received your enameled cast iron cookware as a family heirloom or purchased it yourself, knowing how to properly clean and maintain it ensures its longevity. By following proper care, you’ll be able to pass your beloved enameled cast iron skillet down to future generations. Although most enameled cast iron is technically dishwasher-safe, hand-washing is recommended for the best results and longevity. Here are some simple cleaning methods, as well as expert tips for tackling stubborn stains.

How Frequently Should You Clean Enameled Cast Iron Cookware?

Like any cookware, enameled cast iron should be cleaned after each use to remove leftover food. Over time, the interior of your cookware may develop a patina or discoloration, especially after exposure to high heat or acidic foods like tomato-based sauces. Many cooks embrace this as a mark of their culinary achievements, but if you prefer, the discoloration can be avoided or minimized.

What You Will Need:

• Non-scratching plastic or silicone scraper
• Soft sponge or dishcloth
• Microfiber drying towel
• Dish soap
• Baking soda
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Chlorine bleach
• Paper towels
• Vegetable oil

How to Clean Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Using Dish Soap

Follow this straightforward routine after each use to keep your cookware spotless and looking as good as new.

Step 1: Allow It to Cool

For both your safety and the durability of your cookware, ensure the pan is fully cooled before cleaning. Placing a hot enameled cast iron pan directly into water could lead to cracks forming in the enamel.

Step 2: Remove Food Particles

Use a plastic or silicone scraper to gently lift any food remnants stuck to the surface of the pan.

Step 3: Clean with Warm Soapy Water

Wash your cookware with warm, soapy water using a soft sponge or dishcloth that won’t scratch the surface.

Step 4: Clean the Rim

If the exposed lip of the cookware appears rusty, remove the rust by applying a baking soda paste. To prevent future rust from forming, apply a small amount of vegetable oil to a paper towel and rub it around the rim to season the area.

Step 5: Tackle Stuck-on Food

When food becomes stuck and refuses to come off, here are three effective methods for cleaning it:

• Dry scrub with baking soda. Sprinkle some baking soda on a damp dishcloth and scrub the affected area. The gentle abrasiveness of the soda helps lift the food without damaging the enamel.
• Wet scrub with baking soda. Combine 2 cups of water and ¼ cup of baking soda in the pan, bring it to a boil on the stovetop. Let it cool before scraping off the food with a plastic tool.
• Soak it off. Fill the pan with warm, soapy water and let it soak for several hours before using a plastic scraper to remove the food.

Techniques for Removing Persistent Stains

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent stains, but certain foods—like tomato sauce, beets, and burnt sugar—can still be a challenge. Here are three solutions to help remove those tough stains:

• Utilize baking soda. Combine baking soda with water in a small bowl to form a thick paste. Use a soft sponge to apply the paste to the stained area, rubbing gently in circular motions. The mild abrasiveness of the baking soda helps lift stains without damaging the enamel. Once the stains are gone, rinse and dry the pan completely.
• Use hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide acts as a mild bleach to help lighten stains. After removing any burnt food, pour enough hydrogen peroxide into the cookware to cover the bottom by at least ½ inch. Add ¼ cup of baking soda and heat the pan on the stovetop until the mixture bubbles. Allow it to cool before washing the pan as usual.
• Soak in chlorine bleach. Mix 3 tablespoons of chlorine bleach into 1 quart of water. Pour the solution into the cookware and let it soak for 2 to 3 hours. After soaking, discard the solution and wash the cookware with warm, soapy water.

Avoid These Common Le Creuset Cleaning Mistakes

Now that you're aware of the essential steps to care for your Le Creuset, here are some important things to avoid in order to keep it in top condition:

• Using improper tools. Refrain from using steel wool or metal scrapers to remove stains, as they can scratch the surface and cause food to stick.
• Rough handling. Never bang your enameled cookware against sharp edges or other pans. This can chip the enamel and expose the cast iron, leading to rust.
• Cleaning a hot pan. Always allow the cookware to cool down completely before adding cold water or submerging it in a sink full of water.
• Neglecting the exterior. Be sure to clean both the exterior and the bottom of your cookware to remove any stains from spills and boil-overs.
• Air-drying. Always dry your cookware with a towel quickly and thoroughly before storing it.
• Improper storage. To avoid scratches and chips, place a kitchen towel or paper towel between the cookware and its lid when storing.
• Using the dishwasher. Hand-washing is recommended to preserve the life of your enameled cast iron cookware, as dishwasher detergents can be too harsh.