How to clean cast iron cookware in a few simple steps

Enamel-coated cast iron does not rust and does not need to be re-seasoned. However, it must be cleaned correctly to prevent damaging the surface. While it can be placed in an automatic dishwasher, repeated cleaning in this manner will cause the enamel surfaces to lose color and appear dull.

1. Never rinse or soak heated enamel-coated cast iron in cold water. The surface can crack. Allow the cookware to cool before cleaning.
2. Dropping or banging enamel-coated cast iron cookware against hard surfaces can cause chipping that leads to rusted metal.
3. Wash with regular dishwashing soap and hot water. Use a plastic scrubber, never steel wool, to remove stuck-on food.
4. For burned-on food, fill the pan with hot water and 1/2 cup baking soda. Heat on medium until water is boiling. Turn off the heat and allow the water and baking soda solution to cool before washing as usual.
5. Always dry completely before storing the cookware.

If you have received a vintage cast iron piece and see rusty areas, it can usually be saved. This method will work well if the rust is only on the surface and not severe enough to have damaged the integrity of the cookware.

1. Use a non-abrasive plastic scraper to remove as much loose rust as possible. You'll find the Pampered Chef scrapers handy for cleaning and scraping batter from a bowl into baking pans.
2. Make a paste of lemon juice and baking soda by mixing one tablespoon of lemon juice with one cup of baking soda.
3. Apply the paste to the rusty areas and cover with plastic wrap.
4. Allow the paste to work for at least 24 hours and then scrub the piece with a stiff-bristled brush to remove the rust.
5. Rinse well with hot water and follow the steps to re-season the cast iron with vegetable oil.

If you don't have cast iron cookware yet and you're interested in buying a few pieces, we have recommendations for the best brands to shop below:

• Lodge Cast Iron ($10 to $150): One of the oldest cast iron manufacturers (founded in 1896) in the United States, Lodge Cast Iron offers the largest collection of unenameled cast iron cookware from muffin pans to Dutch ovens on the market. The pieces are extremely durable and affordably priced.
• Food Network Cast Iron ($14 to $50): Available in both regular cast iron and enameled cast iron, Food Network brand pieces are lighter weight and perfect for someone getting started with cooking in cast iron.
• Le Creuset Cookware ($75 to $425): Le Creuset set the standard for enameled cast iron cookware. Its pieces are prized by both home cooks and professional chefs for performance and beauty.
• Staub Enameled Cast Iron Cookware ($300 to $460): If you are looking for unique enameled cast iron pieces like a tomato or artichoke-shaped cocotte, Staub moves impressively from stove to table.