How to Clean Cast Iron Skillet

The first time I bought a cast iron skillet, I was excited — and slightly nervous. Everyone told me how amazing cast iron was for cooking, but no one explained how to take care of it. After using it to fry some eggs, I left it in the sink like I would any other pan. Big mistake. The next day, it was rusty, dull, and looked like I’d had it for 10 years. That’s when I realized I had to figure out how to clean cast iron skillet the right way.

It turns out, caring for cast iron isn’t hard — it’s just different. And once you learn the basics, it becomes second nature. In fact, cleaning your skillet properly can actually make it better over time. That’s the beauty of cast iron: the more love you give it, the better it performs.

So, if you’re like me — confused at first but eager to learn — let’s walk through exactly how to clean cast iron skillet and keep it in excellent condition for years to come.

Why Cast Iron Skillets Need Special Care

If you’ve ever owned a nonstick pan, you might assume all cookware is cleaned the same way — warm water, soap, maybe a soak, and done. But cast iron is a bit different. It’s made of raw metal, which means it’s more prone to rust and damage if you don’t treat it properly.

The secret to cast iron is the seasoning — a layer of baked-on oil that protects the metal and gives it that naturally non-stick surface. If you scrub too hard or let it sit in water, you can strip that layer off. That’s why knowing exactly how to clean cast iron skillet matters so much.

Step 1: Clean It Right After Cooking

Timing is important. Once you finish cooking, allow the skillet to cool slightly, but don’t let it sit too long. If it’s still warm, food bits will come off more easily, and it’ll be easier to clean without heavy scrubbing.

Start by wiping the skillet out with a paper towel. If there’s a lot of oil, pour it out first. Sometimes, that’s all you need to do — especially if your skillet is well-seasoned. If some bits are stuck on, move to the next step.

Step 2: Scrub Gently — No Soap Needed

Although people often debate this, the truth is you don’t need dish soap most of the time. Instead, scrub gently with a soft sponge, a nylon brush, or a cast iron scraper. If food is really stuck on, you can add a tablespoon of coarse salt with a little water to act as a natural scrub.

Avoid metal scouring pads or steel wool, as they can remove the seasoning. The goal is to get the pan clean without damaging that protective surface.

Step 3: Rinse Quickly and Dry Immediately

Once the skillet is clean, rinse it under warm water quickly — don’t soak it. Letting cast iron sit in water, even for a short time, can lead to rust. As soon as you rinse it, dry it right away using a clean towel or paper towel.

Even after towel drying, the skillet may still hold onto a little moisture. To be safe, place it on the stove over low heat for 2–3 minutes. This helps remove any remaining water and keeps rust away.

Step 4: Oil It After Every Use

This step is where many people go wrong — but it’s also where the magic happens. After drying, while the skillet is still warm, pour a small amount of cooking oil into the pan (about a teaspoon). Using a paper towel or cloth, rub the oil all over the surface — including the bottom and handle.

Be sure to wipe off any excess so the skillet doesn’t feel greasy. This thin layer of oil keeps the skillet seasoned and protects it between uses.

Step 5: Store It Correctly

After oiling, let the skillet cool completely before storing. Make sure it’s in a dry place with good air flow. If you stack pans, place a paper towel between them to absorb moisture.

Some people store their skillet in the oven — which is fine, just remember to take it out before turning the oven on!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Clean Cast Iron Skillet

Yes, cast iron is tough — but it still needs the right care. Here are a few things to avoid:

• Never soak it in water or leave it wet

• Avoid dishwashers, always

• Don’t use harsh soap or steel wool

• Don’t forget to oil it after cleaning

• Never store it while still damp

By avoiding these habits, your skillet will stay smooth, rust-free, and easy to cook with.

Why This Extra Effort Is Totally Worth It

At first, learning how to clean cast iron skillet may seem like extra work. But over time, you’ll see why people love this cookware so much. It lasts for decades — even lifetimes — and it just gets better the more you use and care for it.

Food tastes better, sears are crispier, and you’ll feel more connected to your cooking. Plus, there’s something satisfying about keeping a tool like this in great shape. Every time you clean and oil your skillet, you’re building a better pan for tomorrow’s meal.

Final Thoughts

So now you know how to clean cast iron skillet — no mystery, no stress. Clean it while warm, skip the soak, scrub gently, dry completely, and oil it afterward. Store it in a dry place, and it will reward you with a lifetime of delicious meals.

If you’ve been afraid to use cast iron because you weren’t sure how to take care of it, let this be the guide that changes that. Because the truth is, it’s not hard — it just takes a little care and consistency.

And trust me, the more you use it, the more you’ll love it.