5 Kitchen Habits That Will Make Your Cast Iron Last a Lifetime

Cast iron cookware isn’t just durable—it’s virtually indestructible with the right care. But how long it lasts in your kitchen comes down to daily habits. Whether you're new to cast iron or have a well-loved skillet passed down for generations, adopting these simple kitchen habits can keep your pan performing perfectly for decades.

Here are five cast iron maintenance tips every home cook should follow.

1. Dry Your Cast Iron Immediately After Washing

One of the biggest enemies of cast iron is moisture. Leaving water to sit—even for a few minutes—can cause rust to develop, weakening the seasoning and damaging the surface.

Best practice:
After rinsing or gently scrubbing your cast iron, towel it dry immediately. Then place it on a warm burner for 1–2 minutes to remove residual moisture completely.

2. Avoid Soap and Harsh Cleaners

Dish soap and synthetic cleaners strip away the pan’s natural non-stick layer, called seasoning. The same goes for steel wool and aggressive scrubbing pads.

What to use instead:
A natural cleaner like Salt and Soda Scrub gently lifts food residue while preserving the seasoning. It's abrasive enough to clean but food-safe and non-damaging.

3. Always Oil After Cleaning

To keep your cast iron seasoned, it needs a light coat of oil after each wash. Think of this as replenishing its protective layer.

How to do it:
Once your pan is dry and still slightly warm, add a few drops of neutral oil (like flaxseed or grapeseed) and use a cloth to rub it over the cooking surface. Wipe off excess to avoid sticky buildup.

4. Store It Properly

Stacking cast iron or sealing it in an airtight space can lead to trapped moisture or scratches on the seasoning layer.

Tips for storage:

• Keep your pan in a dry, open space.

• If stacking is necessary, place a paper towel or cloth between pans.

• Avoid storing with lids on—let it breathe.

5. Cook with It Often

The more you use cast iron, the better it performs. Frequent use reinforces seasoning and helps maintain a smooth, non-stick surface.

What to cook:
Anything with a little natural fat is perfect—think bacon, cornbread, roasted veggies, or seared meats. Avoid acidic foods (like tomato sauce) until your pan is very well seasoned.

Bonus Habit: Use a Dedicated Cleaning Routine

Cast iron loves consistency. Develop a regular process: rinse, scrub gently, dry completely, and re-oil. These steps become second nature and take less than 5 minutes after each meal.

Final Thoughts

Caring for cast iron doesn’t require special skills—just the right habits. With a few simple tweaks to your kitchen routine, your skillet can outlast every other pan in your kitchen. Better yet, it gets better with time.

Use tools that support the longevity of your cast iron, not compromise it. That’s why natural, soap-free cleaning options like Salt and Soda Scrub make such a difference.