Q&A for How to Season Cast Iron Cookware

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  • Question
    How long should I wait to use a skillet that I have reseasoned?
    Community Answer
    You can use it as soon as you have completed re-seasoning it.
  • Question
    Why won't people let go of the old idea that you can't use soap to wash cast-iron cookware?
    Community Answer
    People do wash cast iron in warm soapy water, but it does not need a washing every time - just a wipe out.
  • Question
    What is the gas mark for 500 degrees?
    Community Answer
    Either the highest mark or the next to the highest one should be 500, but the reason that they are not marked is because they are not accurate. The best way is to get an oven thermometer.
  • Question
    How do I get rid of sticky, oily residue on a pan?
    Community Answer
    Cook some bacon in the pan over an open fire or on a grill and that will remove the oily residue and reseason the pan.
  • Question
    Can mineral oil be used to season a pan?
    Community Answer
    No, not at all. It is not comestible, and contains many chemicals that are toxic to the human body.
  • Question
    My pot smells like old oil. What can I do?
    Community Answer
    Put lemon juice (from real lemons) in and on it, and let it sit for maybe ten minutes. If that doesn't work, vinegar is good too. After doing either, wash thoroughly.
  • Question
    What gas mark is 500 degrees?
    Community Answer
    Get an oven thermometer - it's very useful. As for your specific question, I can't say other than it's pretty hot - most settings for cooking are like 300-425, so 500 is very hot, probably the highest possible setting.
  • Question
    If I have a cast iron fry pan that has an X mark on the bottom, will this help identify the manufacturer?
    Community Answer
    The pan in question is made by Griswold. Griswold clearly marked their pans and dutch ovens with an X or a cross with their name embossed.
  • Question
    How do I repair a leak in my cast iron skillet?
    Community Answer
    If it's a crack or porous pinhole, you can have it MIG-welded or arc-welded, then grind smooth. Re-season and you're good to go.
  • Question
    Can I clean a cast iron pan with soap and water and then season it?
    Community Answer
    Yes, just dry it quickly and completely. Soap and water should not be used routinely though.
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