Can You Wash Cast Iron with Soap?
Yes, you can use small amounts of mild dish soap on cast iron without ruining the seasoning. Modern dish soaps are gentler than old-fashioned lye-based soaps. However, you should avoid soaking cast iron and always dry it thoroughly after washing.
Key Takeaways
- The old advice against using soap on cast iron dates back to when soaps contained lye, which could strip seasoning.
- New or poorly seasoned cast iron may be more vulnerable; build up seasoning before using soap regularly.
- For stuck-on food, boiling water in the pan or using a chain mail scrubber works well.
Explanation
The old advice against using soap on cast iron dates back to when soaps contained lye, which could strip seasoning. Modern dish detergents are much milder and will not damage a well-established seasoning layer with brief contact.
The seasoning on cast iron is polymerized oil that has bonded to the metal through heat. This creates a durable, non-stick surface that mild soap cannot easily remove. Scrubbing with abrasives or soaking are more likely to damage seasoning than a quick soap wash.
After washing, dry cast iron immediately and thoroughly to prevent rust. Many people heat the pan briefly on the stove to evaporate all moisture, then apply a thin layer of oil before storing.
Things to Know
- New or poorly seasoned cast iron may be more vulnerable; build up seasoning before using soap regularly.
- For stuck-on food, boiling water in the pan or using a chain mail scrubber works well.
- Dishwashers are too harsh for cast iron and should always be avoided.