How to Properly Clean a Dutch Oven

Dutch ovens are great for braising meats for hours, stewing vegetables, and turning bits of food from the fridge into cozy soups that can last a whole week. They can be a little pricey (up to a few hundred dollars) but are a great investment. If you treat them with care, they’ll be around for decades and can even be one of those kitchen heirlooms.

Here’s what you need to know about Dutch oven cleaning methods:

How to Clean a Dutch Oven (General Steps):

• Step 1: Clean the exterior first. Remove pesky spills and grime by wiping them down with a dedicated cloth. You can also make a paste from baking soda and water, and scrub it onto the pot with a damp sponge. Remember, do not use any abrasive ones such as steel wool.
• Step 2: Clean the inside of the oven thoroughly. For cast-iron Dutch ovens, you need to use boiling water. Ensure to avoid soapy water. As for enamel cast iron, soaking it in water would help stubborn stains.
• Step 3: Beware of chipping. Cracks in cast iron or chips in enamel should be fixed. If you ignore those, it can seriously interfere with your cooking. Check for any damage before using it.
Step 4: Dry and Apply new seasoning. Dry thoroughly and apply new seasoning if applicable. Dutch Ovens with Enamel finishing don't require this but it is needed for cast iron ones.

As a chef or home cook, you understand that maintaining kitchen equipment is essential for achieving excellent culinary results.Dutch ovens are incredibly versatile, serving various purposes from braising and stewing to baking and frying. However, neglecting to clean your Dutch oven properly can lead to enamel scratches, compromising its ability to sear meats and caramelize vegetables effectively. Furthermore, failing to clean seasoned cast iron can result in unwanted flavors from previous meals impacting your current dishes.

Cleaning: Cast Iron vs. Enameled Cast Iron

Featured Products: Lodge EC3D43 3 Qt. Red Porcelain Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven with Cover and Lodge L8CO3 2 Qt. Black Cast Iron Round Camp Dutch Oven with Cover

Cast iron and enameled cast iron are the two most popular types of Dutch ovens, both offering excellent heat distribution. While they are both constructed from cast iron, the enameled versions feature a smooth, non-stick enamel coating. This makes enameled Dutch ovens simpler to clean, eliminates the need for seasoning, and provides a wider range of colors and designs in comparison to traditional cast iron.

Nonetheless, cast iron Dutch ovens are generally more durable and cost-effective than their enameled counterparts. Your choice ultimately hinges on personal preference. If you're using a brand-new cast iron Dutch oven, keep in mind that it needs to be seasoned before its first use.

How to Properly Clean an Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven:

You don't need to season an enamel-coated cast iron Dutch oven, but you do have to be aware of the risks of damaging the enamel when you clean it. Some enameled Dutch ovens are even suitable for the dishwasher. However, we'd recommend hand washing these pots to prolong their lifespan.

Step 1: Soak

The enamel coating shouldn't stick to anything, but sometimes it is unavoidable to get bits of grime. If this happens, try these steps:

• Just leave it soaking for 30-60 minutes with an inch of water and drops of dish soap. It should come off easily with just a sponge.
• As an extra step, you can also try a baking soda bath. You do this by boiling water in the pot with a paste consisting of three parts baking soda and one part water and then letting it soak.

If you have burnt-on grime that just don’t seem to budge—mix it with a tiny bit of water, and scrub away. Remember to avoid using steel or abrasive cleaners.

Featured Product: Lodge EC3D43 3 Qt. Red Porcelain Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven with Cover

Step 2: Scrape and scrub

Since most foods don't stick to enameled surfaces, the inside should be easy to clean using a mixture of dishwashing liquid and hot water. If there is stuck-on food, use a nonmetal scrub brush to loosen the stuck food or fill it to soak for several hours with hot water and a drop of dishwashing liquid. Do not use any citrus-based cleaners since they can dull the exterior glossy finish. Make sure to also be aware of enamel chipping before cleaning.

Step 3: Try Baking Soda For Stubborn Stains

Boiling Method:

• Add 4 cups of hot water to your pot and turn up the heat to medium.
• Boil the pot with water add two tablespoons of baking soda and mix well.
• Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes before scraping stuck-on food off the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.
• Rinse with warm water after dumping the solution down the drain.

Soak Method:

• You can also make a paste of three parts baking soda and one part water.
• Put the lid on the Dutch oven and let it sit overnight.
• Scrub the stains with a dish sponge, a bit of soap, and warm water.

Step 3: Dry and Store

Allow it to air dry completely on the drying rack until all moisture has vanished. Alternatively, you can gently wipe it down with a clean cloth towel.

How to Properly Clean a Cast Iron Dutch Oven

Step 1: Initial Wipe down

Maintaining a cast iron Dutch oven involves a bit of dedication. After each use, wipe it down with a dry paper towel or a specialized cast iron cloth and store it in a cool, dark location. For any sticky residue, a damp sponge or paper towel can be effective. Be sure to dry it thoroughly afterward.

Featured Product: Lodge L8CO3 2 Qt. Black Cast Iron Round Camp Dutch Oven with Cover

Step 2: Use Boiling Water

Fill the Dutch oven with water until any burnt food residues are submerged. Bring the water to a boil, then turn off the heat and allow the water to sit for several minutes.

Step 3: Scrub the interior

After the water has cooled, use an appropriate cleaning brush and scrub any remaining residue using a brush scrubber. You can also use a chainmail-wrapped sponge to remove stubborn bits from your teeth.

WARNING: Do not use mild soap on cast iron or soak it in any kind of liquid, because this will ruin its seasoning.

Step 4: Thoroughly Dry

Wipe down using dry paper towels or a drying cloth. To ensure that it's dry, you could heat the oven on the stove for 20 minu­tes.

Step 5: Seasoning by adding a new coat of oil

Put a small amount of cooking oil into the pot. Rub the oil into both the interior and exterior surfaces with a paper towel. After wiping off the excess oil residue, put the Dutch oven away.

Pro-Tip:

Before using a new Dutch oven, it's essential to season it correctly. Start by applying a coat of oil both inside and out, then place it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes. Afterward, take it out and allow it to cool completely. Next, heat it again at 200°F for one hour to ensure proper bonding of the oil. For best results, leave the Dutch oven in the oven overnight to enhance its seasoning. Lastly, apply a final layer of oil before its first use.

Want to have the Best Dutch Ovens?

Here at Culinary Depot, we carry different types of Dutch ovens for all your needs. Can't find the right kitchen tool?Contact us or visit our online store for more information.