Caring for Your Cast Iron Pans: Why Soap and Water Might Not Be So Bad

Cast iron skillets are a beloved kitchen tool, prized for their ability to retain heat and develop a natural non-stick surface when properly cared for. Despite the common belief that using soap and water on cast iron pans is a no-no, many seasoned cast iron users, like yourself, find that using a bit of soap and water doesn’t harm the seasoning at all—and may even be necessary for maintaining the pans’ cleanliness and longevity.

In fact, as you’ve noted, your 46-year-old and 90-year-old cast iron pans—both of which you use three times a day—are doing just fine with this approach. Your pans continue to provide the perfect cooking surface where eggs can slide right out without sticking, and they’re in great shape despite frequent use.

Why the Debate Over Soap and Water?

Traditionally, it’s been said that soap can break down the seasoning on cast iron pans. The seasoning is a layer of oil that’s polymerized (cooked) onto the surface of the pan to create a naturally non-stick coating. This protective layer can be sensitive, and in some cases, soap can theoretically strip it away.

However, with a well-established, thick layer of seasoning, the soap will have little to no effect. Your pans, after being used for decades, have likely built up a robust, durable seasoning that can handle occasional soap use without suffering. In fact, many experts agree that for cast iron that’s already well-seasoned, a little soap won’t do any harm. The key is to dry the pans well after washing and to ensure they stay seasoned by adding a thin layer of oil when needed.

How You Maintain Your Cast Iron: A Proven Approach

Usage: You use these two cast iron pans three times a day, which speaks to how well they’ve held up. Regular use helps maintain the seasoning as long as you’re cooking with oils or fats.
Cleaning: After each use, you wash them in hot water with Dawn dish soap. The soap helps to break down oils and food residue. Since your pans are well-seasoned, the soap won’t affect the non-stick coating, and you don’t need to worry about stripping the seasoning.
Drying: After washing, you towel dry your pans thoroughly. Moisture is the enemy of cast iron, as it can lead to rusting. Towel drying ensures that no water is left to cause damage.
Seasoning: Every 10 years, you reseason your pans, which is a good practice for ensuring the surface remains non-stick and smooth. This long seasoning interval suggests your current method is effective at preserving the pan’s coating.

With your specific use of soap and water, your cast iron pans continue to perform exceptionally, with no food sticking and a smooth cooking surface.

Homemade Oven Cleaner for Cast Iron and More: A Convenient, Non-Toxic Solution

In addition to taking care of your cast iron pans, your homemade oven cleaner is a brilliant way to clean your kitchen surfaces—especially those prone to grease buildup, such as your oven, stovetop, and even your cookie sheets and cake pans.

This cleaner is easy to make, uses common ingredients, and is non-toxic—meaning it’s safer for your kitchen and the environment than store-bought chemical cleaners. Here’s how it works:

Ingredients:

¼ cup Dawn dish soap – Known for its ability to break down grease and oils effectively.
½ cup lemon juice – Contains natural acids that help cut through grease and leave a fresh, clean scent.
1 cup vinegar – Another great natural cleaner with powerful degreasing properties.
1 ¼ cup water – The base that helps dilute the solution for ease of application.

Instructions:

Mix Ingredients: Combine the Dawn dish soap, lemon juice, vinegar, and water in a spray bottle or a bowl. Shake or stir until well combined.
Apply the Cleaner: Spray or apply the solution generously to the area that needs cleaning—whether it’s your oven, stovetop, cookie sheets, or cake pans. The solution works well on most kitchen surfaces and will help break down grease and stubborn grime.
Let it Sit: Allow the cleaner to sit on the surface for a few minutes to work its magic. The acidity of the lemon juice and vinegar, along with the grease-fighting power of Dawn, will start to loosen the dirt.
Wipe Away: After a few minutes, simply wipe the area with a clean cloth or sponge. For tougher spots, you can scrub a little more, but the solution should lift most grime with minimal effort.
Repeat if Necessary: For areas with heavy buildup, you may need to repeat the process, but the results are quick—taking only about 5 minutes to restore the oven or stovetop to a pristine condition.

Why This Cleaner Works Well on Cast Iron:

Not only does this cleaner work wonders on your kitchen surfaces, but it’s also safe for use on your cast iron pans. The Dawn dish soap effectively breaks down grease and residue, while the vinegar and lemon juice help to clean and deodorize without damaging the seasoning of your pans. This means you can easily keep your cast iron looking great, even if you use it for greasy dishes like fried foods or roasted meats.

Conclusion: Efficient Cast Iron Care and Cleaning

By following these simple yet effective techniques for caring for your cast iron pans and cleaning your kitchen surfaces, you’re ensuring that both your cookware and your space remain in top shape. You’ve found a balance that works well for you—using soap without fear of damaging your pans and keeping things fresh with a homemade oven cleaner that’s fast, safe, and efficient. Your cast iron pans have been well-maintained and continue to perform beautifully, thanks to your thoughtful care and attention. Keep enjoying your cooking and the ease that comes with well-maintained, easy-to-use tools!