A guide to buy and use cast iron cookware

Cleaning and Storing Cast Iron Cookware
The best way to clean your cast iron is to not dirty it in the first place. The way to do that is by wrapping the outsides of your cast iron pots with aluminum foil. When cast iron heats up from an open flame during cooking, it develops a black powder that rubs off on everything. Putting aluminum foil on the outside protects it from this powder. You can throw away the blackened foil and your cast iron cookware will stay clean. If your pot or pan is dirty, scrub it with a sponge and clean water. One thing to remember is that you should never use soap. It’s not good for your cast iron cookware. You also should not put Cast Iron Cookware in the dishwasher.
Seasoning and Storing Pots and Pans
It is important to store your cookware in a dry area. Before storing, you have to season it. If you see your cookware turning into a dull gray color or your food is sticking to the pan, it needs to be seasoned. To do this, rinse the pot with hot water and dry. Coat the insides of the cookware with melted vegetable shortening or vegetable oil. Cast iron pots or pans should be re-seasoned like this after every use.
Cast iron cookware is a good choice. Some don’t think it works well, but with the right supplies and a little extra care, you can make your cookware look as good as new and keep it that way.
Pros of Using Cast Iron Cookware
Food does not stick to the cookware, as long as it is cared for properly
Extremely versatile; you can cook a wide variety of things in it
Very durable
Cons of Using Cast Iron Cookware
Difficult to wash
Have to season it to maintain it (see below)
Cast iron is extremely heavy compared to other types of cookware
Food can burn easily if you’re not careful
Handles become very hot