Season Cast Iron Skillet

Tools

• Oven
• Paper towels or a clean cloth
• Oven mitts

Materials

• Cast iron skillet
• Mild dish soap
• Neutral, high-smoke-point cooking oil

Safety

• Use oven mitts when handling the hot skillet.
• Provide ventilation because the oil may produce smoke.
• Do not leave the heating skillet unattended.
• Keep the skillet and oil away from children, pets, and flammable materials.
• Let the skillet cool completely before washing or storing it.

Steps

1. Step 1: Clean the skillet

   • Wash the skillet with hot water and a small amount of mild dish soap.
   • Scrub away food residue and rust. Do not use the skillet until it is clean.

   Check: The cooking surface is free of stuck-on food and loose rust.

2. Step 2: Dry it completely

   • Towel-dry the skillet thoroughly.
   • Place it on a warm stovetop burner for a few minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture, then turn off the burner.

   Check: No water droplets or damp areas remain.

3. Step 3: Apply a very thin coat of oil

   • Spread a small amount of neutral, high-smoke-point oil over the inside, outside, and handle.
   • Use a clean paper towel or cloth to wipe off excess oil until the skillet looks nearly dry.

   Check: The surface has a thin, even sheen rather than visible pools or streaks of oil.

4. Step 4: Bake the skillet

   • Place the skillet upside down on an oven rack.
   • Put a sheet of foil or a suitable oven-safe tray on the rack below it to catch drips.
   • Bake at about 450°F (230°C) for 1 hour.
   • Turn off the oven and leave the skillet inside until it is cool enough to handle safely.

   Check: The oil has bonded to the surface and the skillet is completely cool before removal.

5. Step 5: Repeat if needed

   • For a stronger or more even finish, repeat the thin-oil and baking process one or two more times.
   • After seasoning, wipe the skillet with a small amount of oil before storing it.

   Check: The surface is dark, smooth, and evenly coated without sticky or wet oil patches.