What To Know
- Once the skillet is hot, use the stiff-bristled brush or chainmail scrubber to scrub away the grease.
- If your skillet is rusty, you can remove the rust using a wire brush or steel wool.
- Once the rust is removed, you need to season the skillet to protect it from further rusting.
Cast iron skillets are the workhorses of the kitchen, but they can also be a pain to clean. Grease and grime can build up over time, making it difficult to keep your skillet looking and performing its best.
But don’t worry, cleaning cast iron skillet grease doesn‘t have to be a chore. With the right tools and techniques, you can restore your skillet to its former glory in no time.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you start cleaning, you’ll need to gather a few supplies:
- Dish soap
- Hot water
- A stiff-bristled brush or chainmail scrubber
- A clean towel
- A pair of tongs or oven mitts
2. Heat Your Skillet
Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat. This will help to loosen the grease and make it easier to remove.
3. Scrub the Skillet
Once the skillet is hot, use the stiff-bristled brush or chainmail scrubber to scrub away the grease. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
4. Rinse the Skillet
Rinse the skillet thoroughly with hot water. This will remove any remaining grease or soap residue.
5. Dry the Skillet
Use the clean towel to dry the skillet thoroughly. This will help to prevent rust.
6. Season the Skillet
Once the skillet is dry, you need to season it to protect it from rust. To do this, rub a thin layer of vegetable oil over the entire surface of the skillet. Then, place the skillet in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour.
7. Enjoy Your Clean Skillet
Your cast iron skillet is now clean and ready to use. Enjoy cooking your favorite meals in your newly restored skillet!
Tips for Preventing Grease Buildup
- Always preheat your skillet before adding food. This will help to prevent food from sticking and creating grease.
- Use less oil or butter when cooking. This will help to reduce the amount of grease that builds up on your skillet.
- Clean your skillet after every use. This will help to prevent grease from building up and becoming difficult to remove.
Troubleshooting
- My skillet is still greasy after cleaning.
If your skillet is still greasy after cleaning, you may need to use a stronger degreaser. You can try using a commercial degreaser or a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water.
- My skillet is rusty.
If your skillet is rusty, you can remove the rust using a wire brush or steel wool. Once the rust is removed, you need to season the skillet to protect it from further rusting.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How often should I clean my cast iron skillet?
You should clean your cast iron skillet after every use. This will help to prevent grease from building up and becoming difficult to remove.
- Can I use soap to clean my cast iron skillet?
Yes, you can use soap to clean your cast iron skillet. However, be sure to rinse the skillet thoroughly with hot water after washing to remove any soap residue.
- Can I put my cast iron skillet in the dishwasher?
No, you should not put your cast iron skillet in the dishwasher. The harsh detergents and high temperatures in the dishwasher can damage the seasoning on your skillet.
