If you’ve just cooked a hearty breakfast of bacon and eggs on your cast iron skillet and are wondering the best way to clean and store it, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’m walking you through my step-by-step method to keep your cast iron in top shape—ready for your next cook!
Hi, I’m JB, and welcome to JB Cooks (formerly JB Cooks, it is now Okie Smokin). I cook with cast iron.
Step 1: Let It Cool (But Not Too Much)
After cooking, turn the heat off and let the skillet cool down just enough so you can handle it safely. You don’t want it to cool completely, though. Cleaning it while it’s still slightly warm helps loosen any stuck-on bits and keeps temperature shock to a minimum when you add water.
Step 2: Rinse With Warm Water
Take your skillet to the sink and rinse it with warm water—roughly the same temperature as the pan. This avoids thermal shock, which can cause cracking or warping in extreme cases.
Step 3: Scrub It Clean
I like to use a bit of coarse salt as a natural abrasive. Some folks swear off soap, but I personally use a small amount of mild dish soap occasionally—especially when I’ve cooked something greasy. Use the abrasive side of a sponge or a scrub pad and work it in.
Step 4: Dry It Immediately
Never let your cast iron air dry. That’s a fast track to rust. Grab a lint-free towel and dry it thoroughly, or place it on a low heat burner for a minute or two to make sure every bit of moisture is gone—even on the outside and bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Oil It Up
Once the skillet is dry, apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rust and keep that seasoning nice and strong. I use apricot oil, but you can also use flaxseed oil, vegetable oil, or even saved bacon grease if you’re feeling old-school. Rub it in with a paper towel or cloth, then wipe away the excess so it’s just a thin layer.
Step 6: Store It Right
I like to store mine in the oven (just make sure you remove it before preheating!). Wherever you keep yours, make sure it’s in a dry spot with decent airflow. And boom—it’s ready for your next cooking session.
Want More Cast Iron Recipes and Tips?
I post weekly videos here on JB Cooks featuring cast iron recipes, tips, and everything in between—from stovetop meals to oven-baked dishes. I’m not a pro, just a passionate home cook sharing what’s worked for me—and hopefully, it works for you too.