Buying Guide: Best Cast Iron Cleaning Products in 2025 (What to Look For)

With so many options out there, choosing the best cast iron cleaning products can feel overwhelming. Some are safe and effective, while others can damage your skillet’s seasoning or introduce unwanted chemicals into your kitchen. Here’s a guide to help you choose wisely.

What Makes a Great Cast Iron Cleaner?

The best cast iron cleaning products share a few important traits:

• Seasoning-safe – they won’t strip the protective layer that makes cast iron naturally nonstick.
• Food-safe ingredients – safe enough to use on cookware without leaving behind toxins.
• Eco-friendly – biodegradable and sustainable, keeping both your kitchen and the environment safe.
• Effective abrasiveness – strong enough to lift food and rust without scratching the surface.

Types of Cast Iron Cleaning Products

Here’s a breakdown of the most common options and how they compare:

1. Dish Soap

Cheap and common, but not recommended. Soap can strip away seasoning and leave cast iron vulnerable to rust.

2. Steel Wool

Very abrasive. While it removes rust, it also removes seasoning. Best reserved for restoring heavily rusted pans—not for everyday cleaning.

3. Chainmail Scrubbers

Popular among cast iron users, chainmail scrubbers remove food effectively. However, they require caution to avoid scratching and don’t always preserve seasoning as well as natural scrubs.

4. Natural Cast Iron Scrubs

The safest and most effective option for daily use. Salt and baking soda provide gentle abrasiveness, are completely food-safe, and biodegradable. This is why many consider natural blends like Salt and Soda Scrub among the best cast iron cleaning products available.

How to Use Cast Iron Cleaning Products Properly

1. Rinse the pan with warm water immediately after cooking.
2. Apply your chosen cleaner—ideally a natural scrub—and scrub gently.
3. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a towel or low heat.
4. Finish with a light coat of oil to maintain seasoning.

Final Thoughts

The best cast iron cleaning products are the ones that protect your pan, your food, and the environment. Natural scrubs like salt and baking soda strike the perfect balance of safe, effective, and eco-friendly cleaning. With the right choice, your cast iron will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest everyday cleaner for cast iron?
A natural scrub made from salt and baking soda. It removes food and grease without damaging seasoning.

Can I use steel wool regularly?
No. Steel wool should only be used for severe rust removal. Daily use will strip seasoning.

Are chainmail scrubbers good for cast iron?
They work, but they can be harsh. Natural scrubs are a safer option for maintaining seasoning long-term.