We Asked Chefs for the Best Cast Iron Cleaning Tools

Cast iron cookware has a lot of benefits: it’s naturally nonstick, non-toxic, and long-lasting. However, it requires more maintenance than slick nonstick pans or machine-washable stainless steel skillets. The pros outweigh the cons, so I asked a couple of cast iron experts for their go-to cleaning hacks, and they both recommended the same two tools: the Lodge Pan Scraper and Lodge Scrubbing Pad.

“I use my cast iron pan nearly every day, and these two products have become my favorite cleaning tools — I’ve tried everything!” says Emmy Clinton, a cook, a recipe creator, and the founder of Entirely Emmy. Laura Ascher of Cast Iron Skillet Cooking uses the same pan scraper and chainmail scrubber from Lodge for cleaning cast iron pans.

Lodge Pan Scrapers

Although cast iron skillets are nonstick when properly seasoned, food can still burn and stick, making the pan difficult to clean. Scrubbing that first layer of stuck-on food will just rip up your regular sponge, which is where a plastic scraper like this 2-pack from Lodge comes in. (Bonus: It’s only $5.)

“The Lodge scraping tools are great for lifting charred food pieces without damaging the seasoning,” Clinton says. “I also love the shape of the tool; its edges are perfectly curved to the pan, making it really easy to scrape.” Ascher adds that the scrapers themselves are easy to clean — you can even pop them in the dishwasher.

Lodge Scrubbing Pad

After tackling that first layer of grime, both chefs reach for Lodge’s Scrubbing Pad. The dish scrubber has a silicone core surrounded by a layer of stainless steel chainmail. “Not to be confused with steel wool, a chainmail scrubber is very durable, doesn’t scratch or ruin the seasoning, and is easy to clean,” says Ascher, adding that it’s best for traditional cast iron and may scratch enameled cast iron. Clinton uses the heavy-duty scrubber with hot water for “tougher, stuck-on pieces, like charred-on chicken skin.”

Just like Lodge cast iron cookware, the brand’s plastic scrapers and the chainmail scrubber are affordable at under $30 total, and “you’ll only need to buy them once,” according to Clinton. “I know maintaining a cast iron can be intimidating, but these tools make it feel effortless.”

Shop More Cast Iron Cleaning Tools at Amazon

Pibc Cast Iron Cleaner

Lodge Rust Eraser

Camp Chef Professional Cast Iron Cleaner

Herda Cast Iron Scrubber

Scotch-Brite Stainless Steel Scrubbers

Full Circle Scrub Brush