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A cast iron skillet is one of the most long-lasting tools in the kitchen. It’s naturally nonstick, affordable, and, with proper care, can last for generations, improving with age.

But some common mistakes can damage your skillet over time. Let’s take a look at the most frequent missteps and how you can avoid them.

1. Overheating the Skillet

Cast iron skillet or fry pan on stove — Image Credit: Deposit Photos

Allowing your cast-iron skillet enough time to preheat is crucial before you begin cooking. Like with any cookware, proper preparation makes all the difference. If you let it get too hot, you risk food sticking, burning, and uneven cooking, which can ruin your meal.

2. Lack of Seasoning

season oil cast iron — Image Credit: Homestead How-To

Proper seasoning of your cast-iron pan can greatly extend its lifespan and protect it. To keep it in top shape, be sure to season it with cooking oil. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to season your cast iron pan using olive oil.

3. Improper Cleaning

scrubbing cast iron — Image Credit: The Thrifty Apartment

To maintain your favorite skillet in excellent condition, regular cleaning is essential! However, your cast iron doesn’t require a thorough scrubbing after every use. Over-cleaning and using too much detergent can strip away the seasoning that makes it so valuable.

4. Storing a Wet Skillet

Set of Two Rusty Cast Iron Skillets — Image Credit: Deposit Photos

Storing a wet cast iron skillet is a sure way to invite rust and mold. To prevent this, ensure it’s thoroughly dried before storing, and avoid letting it air-dry.

5. Storing in a Cramped and Humid Environment

various types of cast iron on a countertop — Image Credit: Deposit Photos

Stacking your skillets in cramped spaces or in humid environments can cause damage, reducing their performance.

6. Using the Wrong Utensils

Using inappropriate utensils, like metal spoons and forks, can scratch and damage the surface of your skillet. To protect its finish, opt for wooden or silicone utensils. Investing in quality utensils is worthwhile, as they are durable and easy to maintain.

7. Overcrowding the Skillet

Roasted beef ribeye steak in a cast iron frying pan a selective focus 1200x675 — Image Credit: Deposit Photos

Overcrowding the skillet can prevent food from properly cooking evenly, resulting in soggy, less flavorful dishes. Give your ingredients sufficient space to achieve the best results.

8. Cooking Delicate Foods

While cast iron is excellent for high-heat cooking and browning meats, it’s not ideal for delicate foods like seafood or eggs. The intense heat can make it difficult to handle flaky fish or soft eggs without breaking them. Consider using stainless steel pans for these types of dishes.

9. Cooking Acidic Foods

Acidic foods, such as tomato sauce or lemon juice, can develop a metallic taste when cooked in a cast-iron skillet. While safe to eat, it’s not the most pleasant flavor. If you choose to cook acidic foods in your skillet, limit the cooking time to under 15 minutes to minimize the off-flavors.

10. Storing Food in the Skillet

It might be tempting to leave your meal in the skillet after cooking, but this can promote bacterial growth and compromise the seasoning. To keep leftovers safe, it is better to transfer them to proper storage containers.

11. Soaking in Water

vinegar on cast iron — Image Credit: Homestead How-To

Soaking your cast-iron skillet in water can cause the seasoning to absorb moisture, making it more susceptible to rust. Instead, rinse the skillet with warm water to loosen stuck-on food, and use a sponge or washcloth to clean it. Avoid steel wool, but baking soda and salt can be used as gentle abrasives.

How to Remove Rust From Cast Iron Grill Pan

12. Not Enough Time To Cool

washing cast iron skillet — Image Credit: Homestead How-To

Avoid shocking your skillet with cold water. An unexpected temperature change can ruin the surface. Instead, allow it to cool down before washing, keeping its natural coating in optimal condition.

22 Recipes to Make in Grandma’s Cast Iron Skillet