4 Mistakes That Are Ruining Your Enameled Cast Iron Cookware

Enameled cast iron cookware is built to last. In fact, manufacturers like Staub (a leading brand in the category) offer a lifetime guarantee for their products. That said, the better you maintain your enameled cast iron cookware, the more effectively these items will serve you—and your kids and grandkids!

Wonder why your enameled cast iron is looking a little worse for wear? We spoke with Staub’s brand manager, who shared the most common mistakes she sees people make with their cookware. Here are her top observations.

Not Properly Preheating Your Cookware

When it comes to cooking with enameled cast iron, “patience is a virtue,” Gringle explains, noting that properly preheating your pan is essential. “The biggest mistake is rushing the preheating process,” she underscores.

Taking the following steps means that turning the oven on high, even when recipes say to do so, is not going to be essential, Gringle shares. “Start on low heat for about three minutes, until you can feel heat radiating when you hold your hand above the pan,” she instructs. “Then increase the temperature and add your cooking oil.”

In the long run, your cast iron cookware will perform better when you follow this method, and it’ll be easier to clean, too, Gringle says.

Cooking with Metal Utensils

The types of utensils you reach for when cooking with enameled cast iron pots and pans matter. Skip the metal, and opt for wooden or silicone spoons and spatulas instead, Gringle advises.

“People bang metal utensils on the side of the pans which can cause enamel to chip, even though our enameling is extremely durable,” she explains. It can also leave behind unsightly scratches.

Not Letting Your Pan Cool Before Washing It

While some people like to wash dishes as they cook, give your enameled cast iron pan a minute to cool off before rinsing it, Gringle says. Otherwise, she explains, you run the risk of thermal shock, which can damage the material.

Putting Enameled Cast Iron in the Dishwasher

Even though the dishwasher makes your life way easier, it isn’t a great match for your enameled cast iron pieces. “While Staub cast iron is dishwasher-safe, hand washing is recommended to keep your pan in heirloom condition,” Gringle says. “Harsh dishwasher detergents can dull the exterior enamel over time.”

Instead, all you’ll need is a soapy sponge and a stiff natural bristle or nylon brush, she shares, noting that if you need to do some more intense cleaning, Bar Keepers Friend will come in handy, too. Before putting pans and their lids away, be sure to dry them off fully, Gringle adds.