Many enthusiasts cherish their cast-iron cookware due to its durability and heat retention capabilities. However, there’s a common belief that washing these pans with soap can ruin their seasoning, the special layer that prevents sticking and protects the cookware from rust. This belief stemmed from the past when strong chemicals in soaps could indeed damage cast iron.
Today, however, modern soaps are milder. According to chef George Duran, these soaps are gentle enough not to harm a well-seasoned cast-iron pan. Mild soap can effectively remove odors from cooking certain foods, like bacon or fish. Marco Carmo, an owner of a cleaning service, supports this view, explaining that today’s dish soaps won’t strip the seasoning unless the pan is soaked for long periods or scrubbed too harshly.
To clean a cast-iron pan, simply rinse it with warm water and wipe it down with a paper towel. If necessary, using a little mild dish soap is now considered safe. Your cast-iron pan will remain in good condition with these cleaning practices.
The Truth About Washing Cast Iron with Soap
