How My Mother-In-Law's Simple Cast Iron Cleaning Hack Changed Everything

If you’ve ever searched online for “how to clean XYZ pan,” you know the results can be overwhelming. From too many suggestions to paid promotions, it’s hard to know which advice to trust. And when you’re left wondering what’s safe to use, and why your search has now led you to buying new pans, you can’t help but feel confused. The Googlesphere has a way of pulling you in every direction.

When it comes to cooking and cleaning, I've found that the best answers often come from the experienced home cooks around us. For cast iron cleaning, my mother-in-law had the perfect solution all along—no fancy sprays or chemical cleaners. She showed me that all you need to clean your cast iron is two simple ingredients, likely already in your pantry. Looking for a new cast iron pan? Check out some of the best options here.

To Soak or Scrub?

This debate can be heated, and understandably so. We all want to take care of our cast iron properly. The method my mother-in-law taught me? It’s a little of both: soak first, then scrub. But we’re not talking about hours of soaking and scrubbing with harsh tools. The best part about her technique is its simplicity—and it allows the pan to retain its seasoning over time, unlike using soap and excessive scrubbing which can ruin the seasoning. Learn how to season a cast iron pan like a pro.

The Easiest Way to Clean Cast Iron Pans and Remove Food Residue

The best part? This method is simple, natural, and budget-friendly. Let’s break down my mother-in-law’s tried-and-true cleaning technique below:

What You’ll Need

• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Lukewarm water

How to Get Rid of Stubborn Food Bits and Stains

1. For safety, let your cast iron cool completely after cooking. Once it’s cool, leave it on the stovetop or transfer it to the sink.
2. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the food residue, creating small mounds on the spots that need cleaning.
3. Drop a few splashes of white vinegar onto each mound of baking soda, then fill the pan with a thin layer of lukewarm water—about half an inch. This dilutes the vinegar slightly, making it gentler on the surface while still loosening up the food particles.
4. Let the pan sit for 20 minutes. Using a damp, non-abrasive sponge or scrub brush, gently scrub in circular motions to loosen the food bits. Do not add more water during this step, and rinse the sponge as needed. Once the bits are loosened, rinse the pan with warm water, scrubbing gently for a final clean. Dry the pan completely with a kitchen towel, and safely store it away.

The Final Verdict