Enamel cast iron cooking utensils are equal parts functional and beautiful, holding a special place in the hearts of many home cooks. But glazed cast iron pieces like Dutch pans and ovens from Le Creuset and Staub can be expensive, and you’ll want to take care of them properly so they last for many, many years.
Enameled cast iron pots have a smoother porcelain glaze and are easier to clean than unglazed cast iron pots. Enameled cast iron cookware is not the same as unglazed cast iron and it requires a different care than unglazed cast iron cookware (see our guide for cleaning and care of uncoated cast iron).
To understand how to properly use, clean and care for enameled cast iron cookware, we contacted the experts Nate Collier, marketing communications director of Le Creusetand Adam Blank, senior vice president of sales at Table Sur Lawho explained the do’s and don’ts of caring for enameled cast iron pots and pans.
Enameled cast iron cookware has a lower temperature than unglazed cast iron, but still needs to be handled with care. These cooking, cleaning and storage products are suitable for use with enamelled cast iron cookware.
$7.64 at Amazon
Both Blank and Collier recommend washing enameled cast iron cookware by hand, rather than in the dishwasher — even if it’s dishwasher safe. “The glaze makes it safe to use regular mild dishwashing detergents,” says Blank, “but “you want to avoid corrosive cleaners.”
$5.79 at Amazon
When washing nonstick cookware, make sure to use a sponge that won’t scratch the outer enamel, says Blank. “I recommend using a soft natural or nylon brush or sponge. Avoid using anything abrasive like scouring pads or metal sponges as they can damage the enamel.”
$9.01 at Amazon
Dobie Pads are non-abrasive sponges that are gentle enough to use on enamel surfaces but are great at cleaning food off.
$17.99 at Amazon
If you don’t like sponges, try our favorite Swedish dish towels instead of. This option is super absorbent and comes in a variety of fun colors so you can specify certain fabrics for certain jobs. Read more in our review here.
$8.99 at Amazon
“A brush can be useful for removing small food residues, or for cleaning between upper ribs,” says Collier. barbecue. “
$7.24 at Amazon
Baking soda can help gently remove stains and deposits that have built up on the inside and outside of enameled cast iron cookware. “A mixture of baking soda and water, which is useful for cleaning tough stains, oil deposits, and stains,” says Collier. Baking soda is also very useful for other rooms and appliances in your home, such as when you need a treat clean your oven.
$8.36 at Amazon
Deep stains inside enameled cast iron cookware can be removed by boiling OxiClean and water. Bring to a boil, remove from heat, allow solution to cool completely before pouring out and rinsing pot as usual.
$16.99 at Amazon
After washing enameled cast iron, dry it thoroughly with a lint-free dishcloth before storing. Powder coated dish towels can also be used to protect the pieces during storage; Simply place the towel in the pot or pan before placing another piece inside.
$15.95 at Table Sur La
“Quality enameled cast iron is chip resistant, but to be extra careful I recommend using a pan guard if you’re stacking your cookware for storage,” says Blank. Blank recommends this highly rated pan guard, which comes in three sizes to accommodate smaller and larger pieces.
$34.99 at Amazon
A pot holder arranger can also help protect the enamel from scratches or chipping while the pieces are stored.
“First, let your cookware cool for at least 15 minutes,” says Blank, before rinsing. “Although many brands are dishwasher safe, I recommend always washing by hand to protect the inside of the pan, help the food escape, and keep the color on the outside of the pan vibrant.”
Blank and Collier recommend washing enameled cast iron following these steps:
Step 1: Let the cloth cool to room temperature before washing.
Step 2: If there is significant residue in the pot or pan, soak in warm water and dish detergent for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off with a sponge. Otherwise, simply wash the pot or pan with a sponge and hot soapy water.
Step 3: Wipe the piece clean with a sponge or dish towel.
Step 4: Rinse with warm water.
Step 5: Wipe dry with a soft cloth.
“My favorite tip,” says Blank, “is to fill your cookware with water, add baking soda, and boil for about 10 minutes. This will remove any trapped food particles or stains. The same method can be used with OxiClean or any other oxygen cleaner for a deeper clean.
There are some do’s and don’ts when using, cleaning and storing enameled cast iron to ensure they last a long time. These cooking, cleaning, and maintenance tips will help you keep these items in good working order for years.
- Use silicone utensils, wooden or heat-resistant plastic cookware.
- When absolutely necessary, metal cooking utensils, such as spoons or polishers, can be used, but be careful as they are not scraped over the enamel surface.
- Do not hit the cookware against the rim of the pan.
- Electric or battery-powered hand beaters should not be used, as their blades can damage the enamel.
- Do not use knives or sharp-edged tools to cut food inside the enameled cast iron pan.
- Never place a hot pan in cold water or pour cold water into a hot pot as the enamel can crack due to thermal shock.
- Do not use detergents or other corrosive cleaners on cooking surfaces.
- Do not use metal pads or strongly corrosive cleaning tools.
- Store pans in a dry cabinet or cool space away from moisture.
- Never store enameled cast iron cookware while wet or damp.
- Use pot and pan guards to safely stack enameled cast iron cookware.
- Maintain the tightness of all handles and knobs by checking and re-tightening them regularly.
