How to Care for Enamelled Cast Iron Cookware: Cleaning & Maintenance Guide
Cast iron cookware is built to last, but a little care goes a long way. Whether you're using a cast iron frying pan, skillet or casserole dish, the way you cook, clean and store it can make all the difference to its lifespan.
Cooks Professional Cast Iron Cookware features a PFAS-free vitreous enamel coating, combining excellent heat retention with a protective finish that doesn't require seasoning. Here's how to keep your enamelled cast iron pots and pans performing at their best for years to come.
How to clean enamelled cast iron
Unlike traditional pre-seasoned cast iron, vitreous enamelled cast iron doesn't need re-seasoning after washing. Everyday cleaning is simple, provided you follow a few steps:
1. Allow it to cool: Let your cast iron cookware cool naturally before washing. Placing a hot pan in cold water can cause thermal shock and damage the enamel or cause cracking.
2. Wash gently: Use warm water, mild washing-up liquid and a soft sponge or brush. Avoid metal scourers and harsh cleaning products that could scratch the coating. We recommend one of our Bamboo Scourers or Eco Sponges for persistent food.
3. Remove stubborn residue: For burnt-on food, soak the pan in warm, soapy water until the residue softens, then gently clean with a non-abrasive sponge.
4. Dry thoroughly: Pay particular attention to rims and exposed cast iron edges, where trapped moisture could cause rust.
Handwashing is recommended to help preserve the appearance and condition of your enamelled cast iron cookware.
Preventing damage and extending its lifespan
Vitreous enamel is durable, but everyday cooking habits can affect how well the coating holds up over time.
Avoid overheating: Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well, so medium temperatures are suitable for most cooking. Heat your pan gradually and never leave it empty over a high heat. Our cast iron is oven safe up to 260°C, and it is unlikely you will need to cook above this anyway.
Use suitable utensils: Wooden, silicone or heat-resistant nylon utensils help protect the enamel surface. Avoid sharp metal tools or cutting food directly inside the pan.
Prevent thermal shock: Never plunge hot cast iron cookware into cold water or expose it to sudden temperature changes, as this can cause the enamel to crack or chip.
Handle with care: Lift cast iron pans rather than dragging them across glass or ceramic hobs. Avoid knocking lids against the rims of casserole dishes, which can damage the enamel.
These simple habits help protect your vitreous enamel coating and maintain your cookware's performance.
Removing stains and discolouration
Over time, enamelled cast iron may develop light staining or discolouration, particularly from ingredients such as tomato sauces, spices and cooking oils. These marks are often cosmetic and don't affect cooking performance. To minimise staining, clean your cookware after each use and avoid allowing food residue to build up. For stubborn marks, soak the cookware in warm, soapy water and gently clean with a soft sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners or aggressive scrubbing.
Storing your cast iron cookware
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning. Make sure your cast iron skillets, frying pans and casserole dishes are completely dry before putting them away. If stacking cookware, place a soft cloth or pan protector between each piece to prevent scratches. For casserole dishes, a cloth between the lid and pot can also help protect the enamelled edges, although not essential.
Store your cookware somewhere dry, away from unnecessary moisture.
Hobs, ovens and grills
Recommended utensils for enamelled cast iron
The right utensils help keep your enamel looking and cooking its best. We stock a range of kitchen utensils designed to work with cast iron, with gentle silicone that won’t scratch the surface.Silicone Utensils are heat resistant and flexible, so they’re ideal for scraping sauces from the sides of a casserole dish or turning delicate fish in a skillet.
Our Heat-Resistant Silicone Utensils come in packs of 2, 3 or 5, equipped with all the essentials needed in every kitchen, paired perfectly with our cast irons. The 2 Piece Utensil Set comes equipped with a thin spatula and set of tongs, ideal for flipping and serving up food. Our 3 Piece Utensil Set is perfect for soups, stews and everyday serving, equipped with a rounded turner, ladle and serving spoon. The complete 5 Piece Utensil Set is perfect for all occasions and a kitchen must-have.
Pair your cast iron with any set of Cooks Professional utensils and you’ll have everything you need to cook, stir and serve without risk to your enamel.
Wooden spoons and spatulas are also a classic choice for stirring stews and sautéing vegetables, and they’re kind to the enamel even with years of use.
Frequently asked questions
Does enamelled cast iron need seasoning?
No. Vitreous enamelled cast iron has a protective coating that eliminates the need for seasoning, unlike traditional pre-seasoned cast iron cookware.
Can you put enamelled cast iron in the dishwasher?
Always hand wash. Warm water, washing-up liquid and a sponge or brush are all you need. Our cast iron is hand wash only, primarily because dishwasher detergents are far more aggressive than washing-up liquids. Over repeated cycles, washing machines can dull the gloss on the enamel and attack any exposed cast iron on the rims here the lids sit.
Can you use washing-up liquid on enamelled cast iron?
Yes. Mild washing-up liquid and warm water are suitable for cleaning enamelled cast iron pots and pans without damaging the coating.
Why is food sticking to my enamelled cast iron skillet?
Food can stick if the pan is overheated or insufficiently oiled. Gradually preheat your skillet, use a little oil or butter and allow food to develop a crust before turning.
How long does enamelled cast iron last?
Quality enamelled cast iron cookware can last for many years with proper care. Avoiding overheating, abrasive cleaning and sudden temperature changes helps preserve its protective coating. If you keep up these simple steps then there's no reason your cast iron can't last a lifetime!
Can enamelled cast iron be used on induction hobs?
Yes, cast iron is naturally magnetic so it works on induction hobs as well as gas, electric, ceramic, halogen and solid-fuel jobs. All Cooks Professional cast iron is induction compatible.
Can I use metal utensils on enamelled cast iron?
No, metal utensils can scratch and narj the enamel, and those marks tend to be permanent. Wooden or silicone utensils are all safe to use and keep the surface scratch free.
Make your cast iron cookware last
Looking after your Cooks Professional cast iron doesn't need to be complicated. Gentle cleaning, gradual heating and careful storage will help keep your vitreous enamelled pots and pans performing at their best.
Following the recommended care instructions also helps maintain your product's 25 year guarantee. Manufacturing faults during normal domestic use may be covered within the applicable guarantee period, but wear and tear, scratches, stains, discolouration, commercial use and damage caused by misuse or overheating are excluded.
Explore our cast iron cookware collection for vitreous enamelled frying pans, skillets and casserole dishes designed for everyday cooking.