Keeping your Lodge 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet in tip-top shape is pretty simple once you get the hang of it. Although the manufacturer's description might say it's dishwasher safe, it's really better to wash it by hand. Dishwashers can be a bit too harsh and might mess up that important seasoning that makes the iron naturally non-stick.
Here's an easy routine: Try to clean the skillet while it's still a bit warm—makes getting rid of food bits much easier. A stiff brush or a cloth works well for scrubbing leftovers. You can use a bit of soap, but don't go overboard with it; avoid harsh detergents because they can damage the skillet's seasoning.
After cleaning, make sure to dry it completely. Leaving it wet is a quick route to rust, and we definitely don't want that. You can dry it with a towel or just put it on a warm stove for a few minutes. Once it's dry, rub a thin layer of oil over it. Most cooking oils will do the trick, but some folks swear by flaxseed oil for its durability. This keeps the seasoning strong and adds some extra rust protection too.
From our research, maintaining that seasoning is key. It not only keeps the skillet naturally non-stick, but it also helps it last longer and cook better over time. We've found that many people prefer hand washing for these reasons.
Plus, a well-seasoned skillet is great at holding heat, which folks rave about. And don't forget, regular care ensures your Lodge skillet stays awesome for a long time. If it ever seems a bit dull or less shiny, you can bring it back to life by re-seasoning it.
Just clean it well, dry it, coat it with a layer of oil, and bake it upside down in the oven. Sticking to these habits will keep your trusty cast iron a kitchen favorite for years.
