Seasoning

• The seasoning on cast iron cookware is a layer of cooking oil or shortening that builds up over time. Some cast iron skillets are purchased pre-seasoned and need no further seasoning.
  
  If your skillet is not pre-seasoned, rub the entire surface, inside and out, with solid vegetable shortening. Place the skillet upside down on a baking sheet in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for one hour. At the end of the hour, turn off the oven and allow the skillet to cool before removing it. Skillets placed in the oven right-side up sometimes become sticky on the bottom because of excess oil.
  
  Repeat the seasoning process occasionally or just use the skillet regularly to add to the seasoning layer. Eventually, a black coating of burnt grease builds up on the skillet, creating a nonstick surface.
  
  

Cleaning

• Do not use soap or dish detergent on your cast iron and don't place it in the dishwasher. Soap or excess scrubbing removes the seasoning layer.
  
  Wipe out excess oil and loose food debris with a paper towel and rinse the skillet in water. Remove stuck on foods with a nylon scrubber. Dry it thoroughly with a dry dish towel or heat it briefly on the stove. Water remaining on the skillet causes rust.
  
  For food that is tough to remove, add a little water to the skillet and heat it to soften the food and make it easier to remove. In a properly seasoned skillet, food does not stick.
  
  

Storing

• Rub a thin layer of oil or shortening onto your cast iron skillet and wipe off the excess before storing it. Use a small amount on a paper towel and rub the entire interior surface. Store in a dry place. When storing for long periods, place a paper towel inside the skillet to absorb moisture.
  
  

Dealing with Rust

• Occasionally a break in the seasoning will occur, causing a rust spot. This is rarely a problem on skillets that are used frequently. If rust does occur, remove it by scrubbing with steel wool and repeating the seasoning process.
  
  Skillets that are rusted completely benefit from intense heat. Place the skillet in a self-cleaning oven and run the cleaning cycle. The skillet comes out shiny, like new. Wash off any ash residue and start the seasoning process again from scratch.