How to clean enamel cookware for longevity
Equal parts functional and beautiful, enamelled cast iron cookware holds a special place in the hearts of many home cooks. But enameled cast iron items like Le Creuset and Staub skillets and Dutch Ovens can be expensive, and you need to take proper care of them to ensure 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. Enamelled cast iron cookware is not the same as uncoated cast iron and requires different care than uncoated cast iron cookware (read our guide to cleaning and caring for uncoated cast iron).
To understand how to properly use, clean and store enamelled cast iron cookware, we spoke to experts Nate Collier, head of marketing communications at Le Creuset, and Adam Blank, a senior vice president of merchandising at Sur La Table, who this explained tips and tricks for the care of enameled cast-iron pots and pans.
Enameled cast iron cookware is less temperamental than uncoated cast iron, but should still be handled with care. These cooking, cleaning and storage products are right for enameled 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. “The enamel makes it safe to use common mild dishwashing detergents,” says Blank, “but you should avoid abrasives.”
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When washing nonstick cookware, Blank says, be careful to use a sponge that won’t scratch the enamel on the outside. “I recommend using soft natural or nylon brushes or sponges. Avoid using abrasive products such as scouring pads or scouring pads as these can damage the enamel.”
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Dobie Pads are non-scratch scrubbing pads that are gentle enough to be used on enameled surfaces but are excellent for removing stuck food.
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If you don’t like sponges, try our popular Swedish tea towel instead. This option is extremely absorbent and comes in a pack of fun colors so you can target specific wipes for specific tasks. Read more in our review here.
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“A brush can be useful for removing small bits of food debris,” says Collier, “or for cleaning between the ribs on grills.”
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Baking soda can help gently remove stubborn deposits and stains from the inside and outside of enameled cast iron cookware. “A paste made from baking soda and water,” says Collier, “is handy for removing stubborn stains, oily residue, and stains.” Baking soda is also useful for other rooms and appliances in your house, such as B. if you need to clean your oven.
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Deep stains on the inside of enamel cast iron cookware can be removed by boiling OxiClean and water. Bring to the boil, remove from heat, allow the solution to cool completely before pouring out and washing the pot as usual.
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After washing enamelled cast iron, dry it thoroughly with a lint-free tea towel before storing it away. Flour sack tea towels can also be used to protect pieces during storage; Simply place the towel in the pot or pan before stacking another piece inside.
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“High quality enameled cast iron is chip resistant,” says Blank, “but to be extra careful, I recommend using pan protectors when stacking your cookware for storage.” Blank recommends this set of highly rated pan protectors, which come in three sizes are to accommodate smaller and larger pieces.
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A pot rack organizer can also help protect the enamel from scratching or chipping while the pieces are in storage.
“Allow your cookware to cool for at least 15 minutes before rinsing,” says Blank. “Although many brands are dishwasher safe, I recommend always hand washing to preserve the patina on the inside of the pan, which helps release food and keeps the color on the outside of the pan vibrant.”
Blank and Collier recommend washing enameled cast iron as follows:
Step 1: Allow the part to cool to room temperature before washing.
Step 2: If there is significant residue in the pot or pan, soak in warm water and dish soap for 15 to 20 minutes before going in with a sponge. If not, simply wash the pot or pan with a sponge and hot, soapy water.
Step 3: Wipe the piece clean with a sponge or dishcloth.
Step 4: Rinse with warm water.
Step 5: Dry with a soft towel.
“My favorite tip,” says Blank, “is to fill the cookware with water, add baking soda, and cook for about 10 minutes. This should get rid of any stuck 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 do’s and don’ts in using, cleaning and storing enameled cast iron pieces to ensure they last. These cooking, cleaning, and storage tips will help you keep these parts in good condition for years to come.
- Use cooking utensils made of silicone, wood or heat-resistant plastic.
- If absolutely necessary, metal cooking utensils such as spoons or whisks can be used, but do so with care as they should not be scraped across the enamel surface.
- Do not bang cooking tools on the edge of the pan.
- Hand-held electric or battery-powered stirrers should not be used because their blades can damage tooth enamel.
- Knives or utensils with sharp edges should not be used to cut food in an enameled cast iron skillet.
- Never place 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 abrasive cleaners or other abrasive materials on the cooking surface.
- Do not use metal pads or harsh abrasives.
- Store pans in a dry cupboard or in an airy place away from steam.
- Never store enameled cast iron cookware wet or damp.
- Use pot and pan protectors to safely stack enameled cast iron cookware.
- Keep all handles and knobs tight by checking and tightening them regularly.