Enameled cast iron cookware is equal parts functional and beautiful, and holds a special place in the hearts of many home chefs. But enameled cast iron pieces like Le Creuset and Staub Dutch ovens and pans can be expensive, and you’ll want to take proper care of them so they last for many, many years.
Enameled cast iron cookware has a porcelain enamel coating that is smoother and easier to clean than uncoated cast iron cookware. Enameled cast iron cookware is not the same as uncoated cast iron, and should be cared for differently to uncoated cast iron cookware (see our cleaning and care guide uncoated cast iron).
To understand the proper way to use, clean and store enameled cast iron cookware, we tapped experts Nate Collier, Le Creuset’s director of marketing communications, and Adam Blank, senior vice president of merchandising at Sur La Table , which explained the dos and don’ts of caring for enameled cast iron pots and pans.
Enameled cast iron cookware is less temperamental than uncoated cast iron, but still needs to be handled with care. These kitchen, cleaning and storage products are suitable for use with enamelled cast iron cookware.
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Both Blank and Collier recommend washing enameled cast iron cookware by hand, rather than in the dishwasher, even if the piece is dishwasher safe. “Enamel makes it safe to use common soft dishwashing liquids,” Blank says, but “you want to avoid abrasive cleaners.”
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When washing nonstick cookware, Blank says, be sure to use a sponge that won’t scratch the outside of the enamel. “I recommend using soft, natural or nylon brushes or sponges. Avoid using anything abrasive like a scourer or metal sponge as they can damage the enamel.”
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Dobie pads are non-scratch scrubbing sponges that are gentle enough to use on enamel surfaces, but great for cleaning stuck-on food.
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If you don’t like sponges, try our favorite Swedish tea towel. This option is ultra absorbent and comes in a fun color pack so you can designate certain cloths for certain jobs. Read more in our review here.
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“A brush can be useful for removing small food deposits,” says Collier, “or for cleaning between ribs on grills.”
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Baking soda can help gently clean build-up and stubborn stains from the interior and exterior of enameled cast iron cookware. “A paste of baking soda and water,” says Collier, “is very helpful for cleaning tough stains, oil residue, and marks.” Baking soda is also useful for other rooms and appliances in your home, such as when you need to clean your oven.
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Deep stains on the interior of enameled cast iron cookware can be removed by boiling OxiClean and water. Bring to a boil, remove from heat, allow the solution to cool completely before discarding and washing the pot as usual.
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After washing the enameled cast iron, dry it thoroughly with a lint-free kitchen towel before storing it. Flour sack cloths can also be used to protect garments while in storage; simply place the towel in the pot or pan before stacking another piece inside.
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“Quality enameled cast iron is chip-resistant,” Blank says, “but just to be extra careful, I recommend using pan guards if you’re stacking cookware for storage.” Blank recommends this set of high-grade pan guards, which come in three sizes to fit smaller and larger pieces.
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A pot rack organizer can also help protect the glaze from scratches or splashes while the pieces are stored.
“Let your cookware cool for at least 15 minutes first” before washing, says Blank. “While many brands are dishwasher safe, I always recommend hand washing to preserve the patina of the pan’s interior, which helps with food release and keeps the color on the pan’s exterior vibrant “.
Blank and Collier recommend washing enameled cast iron by following these steps:
Step 1: Allow the garment to cool to room temperature before washing.
Step 2: If there is significant residue on the pot or pan, soak it in warm water and dish detergent for 15 to 20 minutes before going in with a sponge. If not, just wash the pot or pan with a sponge and hot, soapy water.
Step 3: Clean the piece with a sponge or kitchen towel.
Step 4: Rinse with warm water.
Step 5: Dry with a soft towel.
“My favorite tip,” says Blank, “is to fill cookware with water, add baking soda, and boil for about 10 minutes. This should remove any stuck-on food particles or stains.” The same method can be used with OxiClean or any other oxygen bleach for an even deeper clean.
There are some dos and don’ts when it comes to using, cleaning and storing enameled cast iron pieces to ensure they last a long time. These cooking, cleaning and storage tips will help you keep these pieces in good condition for many years.
- Use silicone tools, wooden kitchen tools or heat-resistant plastic.
- When absolutely necessary, metal kitchen tools such as spoons or whisks can be used, but be careful not to scrape the surface of the glaze.
- Do not hit the kitchen tools on the edge of the pan.
- Electric or battery-operated hand mixers should not be used, as their blades can damage the enamel.
- Knives or sharp-edged utensils should not be used to cut food inside an enameled cast iron pan.
- Never put a hot pan in cold water or fill a hot pot with cold water, as this can cause the enamel to crack due to thermal shock.
- Do not use scourers or other abrasive cleaners on the cooking surface.
- Do not use metal pads or hard abrasive cleaning tools.
- Store pans in a dry cupboard or ventilated space away from steam.
- Never store enameled cast iron cookware while wet or damp.
- Use pot and pan protectors to safely stack enameled cast iron cookware.
- Maintain the tightness of all handles and knobs by checking and retightening them regularly.
