How to Clean, Season, and Care for Lodge Cookware

There’s just something special about cooking with cast iron. Whether you’re searing a steak, baking cornbread, or whipping up a cozy one-skillet meal, Lodge cast iron delivers serious flavor and unmatched durability. But like any great relationship, cast iron cookware thrives with a little TLC.

At Cashiers Kitchen, we carry a wide selection of Lodge cast iron cookware — from classic skillets to Dutch ovens and grill pans. And we’re here to help you take care of it every step of the way.

Step 1: Clean It Right

Yes, you can use soap. The myth that soap ruins cast iron is just that — a myth. Here’s how to clean your Lodge pan after cooking:

Wash by hand with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap.
Use a Lodge pan scraper (available in-store) to lift stuck-on food without damaging the seasoning.
For stubborn messes, simmer a little water in the pan for a few minutes, let it cool, then scrape.

Step 2: Dry Completely

Cast iron hates lingering moisture — it leads to rust. So after rinsing:

Dry immediately with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
Set the pan on a warm burner for a few minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture.

Step 3: Oil and Love

Once dry, it’s time to protect your pan and build that signature non-stick surface:

Apply a very light layer of oil — vegetable oil, canola, or our favorite: Lodge Seasoning Spray (available in-store).
Use a paper towel to wipe the pan until no oily residue remains.
Store it in a dry place until your next delicious creation.

Bonus Tips for Cast Iron Success

Avoid the dishwasher. Always hand wash.
Skip soaking. Sitting in water is a no-go.
Cook often. The more you use it, the better it gets.
Re-season when needed. If your pan looks dull or feels sticky, clean it and give it a fresh oil rub, then bake at 350°F for an hour.

Cast Iron, Made to Last

With just a little care, your Lodge cookware can last for generations. Whether you’re cooking over gas, induction, campfire, or oven, it’s a reliable kitchen workhorse that only gets better with time. Have a favorite cast iron recipe or cleaning trick? Drop by and share it — we love trading tips with fellow food lovers!