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Lodge Just Settled the Debate: This Is the Best Way To Clean Your Cast Iron Pans

Cast iron pans are beloved by home cooks and professional chefs alike for their ability to heat evenly and retain heat for a long time. However, there has always been a debate about the best way to clean these pans. Traditional wisdom has dictated that using soap on cast iron should be avoided at all costs, as it can strip away the seasoning that gives the pan its non-stick properties. But according to Lodge, the renowned cast iron cookware manufacturer, it’s time to debunk this myth. The company recently revealed that using soap on cast iron pans is perfectly fine, and in fact, it can be the best way to clean them.

Lodge, which has been in the cast iron business for over 120 years, conducted extensive testing to settle the soap debate once and for all. They found that using a small amount of mild dish soap, along with a soft sponge or brush, can effectively remove food residue and maintain the pan’s seasoning. The key is to avoid using excessive amounts of soap, harsh scrub brushes, or soaking the pan for prolonged periods.

So why has the “no soap” myth persisted for so long? According to Lodge, it’s likely due to the misconception that soap will remove the seasoning from the pan. However, seasoning is not a layer of grease or oil that can be easily washed away with soap. It is a polymerized layer of oil that has been baked onto the surface of the cast iron, creating a natural non-stick coating. Soap, when used properly, will not harm this seasoning layer.

Using soap to clean cast iron pans offers several benefits. Firstly, it helps to remove stubborn food particles and prevent the buildup of residue over time. This can be especially useful for pans that have been used to cook greasy or heavily seasoned foods. Secondly, soap can help eliminate any lingering flavors or odors from previous cooking sessions, ensuring that your next meal doesn’t taste like the last one. Lastly, using soap can make the cleaning process quicker and more efficient, allowing you to spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal.

So, what is the proper way to clean a cast iron pan with soap? Lodge recommends the following steps:

1. Allow the pan to cool down after cooking.
2. Fill the sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap.
3. Gently scrub the pan using a soft sponge or brush, paying extra attention to any stuck-on food.
4. Rinse the pan thoroughly with warm water.
5. Dry the pan completely with a towel or by placing it over low heat on the stove.
6. Apply a thin layer of oil or shortening to the pan to maintain its seasoning.

It’s important to note that while soap is now deemed safe for cast iron pans, other cleaning methods should still be avoided. This includes using abrasive scrubbers, steel wool, or running the pan through the dishwasher. These methods can still damage the seasoning and should be avoided to ensure the longevity of your cast iron cookware.

In conclusion, Lodge has settled the long-standing debate about the best way to clean cast iron pans. Using a small amount of mild dish soap, along with a soft sponge or brush, is now considered the best method to effectively remove food residue and maintain the pan’s seasoning. So go ahead and embrace the soapy suds, knowing that you are properly caring for your beloved cast iron pans.

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Source : @Allrecipes

Lodge Just Settled the Debate: This Is the Best Way To Clean Your Cast Iron Pans

Yes, you can use soap.
Click the image for more info. https://t.co/96QcDfxXwI

— Allrecipes (@Allrecipes) December 13, 2023

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