How to Care for Enameled Cast Iron Cookware

Use the cookware indoors only. Do not use it on grills or open flame cook pits outside. Also, do not put it in the microwave, as it could damage the pot and destroy the microwave.

Place the cookware on the burner that is closest to its size when cooking. This will prevent hot spots and warping of the pot. Do not slide the cookware across counters or cooktops. Always lift it to move it.

Avoid metal utensils, as they will scratch the enamel.

Do not cook with temperatures exceeding 400 degrees F. Higher heat may crack the enamel.

Let the cookware cool completely before washing it. Hand wash the piece with dishwashing liquid and a soft nylon scouring pad. Dry it with a clean towel. Do not let the cookware air dry.

Soak the pot in a mixture of 1 teaspoon of bleach per 1 pint of water for two hours to remove stains, as recommended by the Lodge Cast Iron website. For stuck on food, boil 1 cup of water mixed with 2 tablespoons of baking soda for 10 minutes in the pot, then rinse the pot.

Do not drop the cookware. If you drop it and chip the enamel, exposing the cast iron underneath, you'll need to season that spot as you would a normal cast iron pot, using things like animal fat or other solid fats to keep it from rusting.