Best Oil To Use On Cast Iron (2024 Update)
If you're looking for the best oil to use on cast iron, there are a few factors that you need to consider before making a purchase. The first thing to think about is the smoke point of the oil – this is the temperature at which the oil starts to smoke and break down, which can cause a bitter taste and potential health risks. You also want to look for an oil that is stable at high temperatures and has a high concentration of monounsaturated fats.
When it comes to cast iron care, using the right oil is crucial for maintaining the longevity and non-stick properties of the cookware. Many people swear by traditional options such as canola oil and vegetable oil, but there are also more unique choices such as flaxseed oil and grapeseed oil. Each oil has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to do your research before purchasing.
So, what should you consider when looking for the best oil to use on cast iron? Do you prioritize smoke point or nutritional profile? Are you looking for something with a neutral flavor or something that will enhance the taste of your food? By answering these questions and understanding the characteristics of various oils, you'll be well on your way to making an informed purchase and keeping your cast iron cookware in top shape.
10 Best Oil To Use On Cast Iron
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This product is ideal for cleaning cast iron cookware such as skillets, Dutch ovens, carbon steel, and woks.
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This product is ideal for cleaning cast iron cookware, including dutch ovens, woks, grill pans and pots.
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This product is ideal for restoring, curing, care, and seasoning cast iron cookware.
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Ideal for cleaning cookware, pots, and skillets with a food-safe design that is easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
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Ideal for applying food-grade mineral oil and wax on wooden, bamboo, and cast iron kitchen utensils and countertops.
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Ideal for cleaning and maintaining the quality of cast iron and carbon steel products by fighting rust and neutralizing odors.
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Ideal for cleaning and maintaining cast iron pans, dutch ovens, waffle irons, and pre-seasoned cookware.
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This product is ideal for cleaning and maintaining cast iron cookware.
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Ideal for cleaning cast iron pans, dutch ovens, waffle irons, griddles, skillets, and woks without scratching or damaging the surface.
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10
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Ideal for cleaning and maintaining cast iron skillets, pans, and cookware.
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1. Ultimate Cast Iron Cleaning Kit
Introducing the latest version of the Herda Cast Iron Chain Scrubber – an advanced and uniquely designed kitchen tool that is perfect for cleaning cast iron pans. This scrubber has both rounded and square corners, making it versatile and suitable for use on any type of iron skillet. With added smooth fine ringlets, you can expect better scrubbing power without damaging the cast iron seasoning. In fact, this product is so innovative that it has been granted a patent number: US D845570 S.
Constructed with 316 stainless steel chain link, this chain scrubber is rust-resistant, smooth, and machine-crimped for strength, ensuring long-lasting durability. The added silicon scrub pad is easy to clean and will never hold stains like traditional sponges or steel wool scouring pads, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative.
The Herda Cast Iron Chain Scrubber is an affordable and easy-to-use solution for cleaning your cast iron pans. Its solid-yet-flexible chainmail design is perfect for mini skillets, normal and large cast iron pan pot skillets, and it is easy to grasp, ensuring comfortable cleaning. Simply wash the cast iron pan under warm water, apply light pressure with the scrubber, and watch as it removes the burned-on bits without the need for soap or pre-soaking. Cleaning the scrubber is also a breeze – toss it into the dishwasher or wash it in soapy water and rinse.
As a bonus, this product comes with a 4-in-1 cast iron pan scraper tool set, which includes an iron skillet scrubber cleaner, a grill scraper, a pan/pot/food scraper, and a bamboo fiber cloth rag. With friendly customer service, you can buy the Herda Cast Iron Chain Scrubber with confidence, knowing that it can be used on a variety of kitchen items such as frying pans, baking sheets, griddles, dutch ovens, pyrex, metal pots, carbon steel pans, pie pans, and much more. Upgrade your kitchen cleaning routine with the Herda Cast Iron Chain Scrubber today!
2. Herda's Cast Iron Chain Scrubber Set
Introducing Herda's set of 2 chain scrubbers for cast iron, the perfect replacement for steel wool scrubbers, sos scouring pads, and steel scrub pads. Designed to last a year for all your cast iron cleaning needs, this set of 2 chain scrubbers is an affordable option for your home kitchen or camping trips.
Crafted from high-quality American standard 316 stainless steel, these chain scrubbers are machine crimped and feature hundreds of 1cm and 0.5cm smooth rings. Despite being surprisingly light, these scrubbers are wonderfully effective at removing baked-on, dried-on, and burnt-on food particles from your cast iron cookware.
Unlike cloth scrubbers, these chain mesh pot scrubbers are easy to clean with soap and water, and they won't develop mildew when drying. Additionally, they don't have long bristles that make it difficult to remove crud from between the bristle clusters.
This stainless steel chain mail scrubber can be used with just water and little pressure, making it ideal for cleaning cast iron pans, baking pans, frying pans, saucepans, pizza stones, glassware, carbon steel cookware, sinks, grill stove tops, campfire pans, and more.
Available in 4-inch, 4.5-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch sizes, this cast iron cleaner scrubber provides various options to choose from. With the purchase of this set, you get two pieces of silver cast iron scrubber chainmail and a lifetime guarantee.
Invest in Herda's premium quality chain scrubbers for cast iron skillets and enjoy the benefits of an affordable, long-lasting, and effective cleaning solution for all your cast iron cookware needs.
3. Coconut Care: Cast Iron Savior
Introducing a plant-based, food-grade conditioning and seasoning oil that is specifically designed for your cast iron pans, griddles, and skillets. Made with fractionated coconut oil, it is a safe and effective choice for your family's cooking needs. This product is unlike regular coconut oil found at your local grocery store, as it does not go rancid, ensuring that it will last you a long time.
This cast iron oil is perfect for hydrating, seasoning, and preventing rust on your valuable cookware. Try it today alongside our cast iron scrub (sold separately) for best results. You can apply it with a non-piling cloth or, for even easier application, try our VBK oil applicator (also sold separately).
After washing your cast iron cookware (especially if you use soap), it is essential to apply this oil to prevent rust and keep it in top condition. Simply apply a thin layer of oil to your cast iron, making sure to cover the exterior as well. The light scent of orange and rosemary will leave your cookware smelling fresh and clean.
One of the best features of this product is that it does not go bad. Unlike vegetable, soybean, or other cooking oils, our fractionated coconut oil is designed to last until you use it up. So, you can buy with confidence knowing that you won't have to replace it anytime soon.
4. Chainmail Scrubber: Safe Cleaner For Cookware
Introducing the most innovative and ergonomic design in cookware cleaning – the Cuisinel Cast Iron Cleaner. This meticulously crafted cleaner is designed with a handle that provides a better grip and keeps your hands away from the chain mail, resulting in less fatigue. The flexible scrubber can easily get into any corner or crevice and is suitable for all cookware, including pots, pans, grills, griddles, and even pizza stones. With this cleaner, you can easily get rid of dirt, rust, or oil build-up on your cast iron and make your cookware look brand new again.
The Cuisinel Cast Iron Cleaner is not just a regular scrubber. It is a cleaning tool that can clean, revitalize, and renew your cookware. Scrub away dirt without scraping away the seasoning, or transform and revitalize a rusted or corroded cast iron to provide the perfect bedrock for new layers of seasoning. This eventually results in a non-stick pan, giving you a better cooking experience. Whether you left a wet cast iron out overnight or you found a 100-year-old Lodge buried in your backyard, this innovative cleaning tool can nurse any cast iron back to health.
Made from the highest quality FDA Food Grade anti-rust stainless steel and premium food-safe silicone, the Cuisinel Cast Iron Cleaner is rust and grime resistant. The non-slip scrubber will not warp or impart toxins into your cookware, making it safe for your family. The non-porous honeycomb webbing of the silicone retains soap while scrubbing, behaves like a sponge against dirt, can be cleaned easily by running water through the holes, and makes it easier to air-dry without any build-up. You can use this cleaner with or without soap, depending on your preference.
The Cuisinel Cast Iron Cleaner is fully immersible and dishwasher safe. The flat top of the handle can be used to stand and air-dry or for small-footprint storage, so there is no damage or harmful build-up on your countertop, dish tray, or kitchen shelf. You can put this heat-resistant cleaner through the ringer, and it will come out unscathed, and both cookware and scrubber will come out looking brand new! This invaluable tool will bring your cookware back to life.
Cuisinel is a US-based company that offers quick and friendly customer service, so you are assured of reliable customer support. In addition to Amazon's seamless 30-day money-back guarantee, Cuisinel stands behind the durability of their products, so you know you're always in good hands. As the premier cast iron company, they are proud to introduce you to their innovative and essential cleaning solution, and they are confident that you will be as impressed as they are. You can be assured that you are making the right choice with the Cuisinel Cast Iron Cleaner.
5. Clark's Wood Care Applicator Brush – Food Safe
This cutting board scrub brush is a must-have for anyone who values their wooden kitchenware. Unlike generic plastic scrub brushes, this brush was specifically designed for food safe mineral oil and wax for wood surfaces, making it the ideal applicator for giving your wooden kitchenware extra shine and a fresh look.
Crafted in the USA using beautiful maple wood and natural Tampico fibers, this brush is free from cheap bamboo, glue, plastic, and Chinese imported goods. The all-natural wood and plant fibers are completely food safe, ensuring that your kitchen remains a healthy and hygienic space.
The ergonomic design of this scrub brush allows for serious scrubbing, strong enough to remove even the toughest stain while still being soft enough to not damage or scratch the wood surface. This brush is versatile and can be used for cutting boards, butcher blocks, countertops, kitchen islands, and any other kitchen surface. It’s also a great general-purpose scrub brush that can be used for various other cleaning tasks.
The natural Tampico fibers offer the perfect blend of stiffness, abrasiveness, and suppleness, providing a superior cleaning experience that no plastic scrub brush can mimic. It is the perfect tool to maintain your kitchen's cleanliness and keep your wooden kitchenware looking its best.
Invest in this high-quality cutting board scrub brush today and enjoy a safe, hygienic, and beautiful kitchen. We look forward to hearing all the ways you use this brush!
6. Crisbee Rust-Fighting Soap For Cast Iron Maintenance.
Introducing a versatile and effective solution to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your non-stick skillet and cast iron cookware. This dishwashing soap is specially formulated with Oxalic Acid to remove stubborn stains and prevent flash rust on cast iron cookware.
Not only does it help in the initial seasoning and daily maintenance of your cast iron cookware, but it also protects and neutralizes odors. The soap eliminates the oxidation of oils and leaves your cookware looking and smelling fresh with its Grapefruit scent.
This soap can be used not only as a traditional dish soap but also as a cleaning agent for your cookware. It works its magic on the toughest of stains and keeps your cookware in top-notch condition.
In addition to its effectiveness, this dishwashing soap also supports a great cause. $1 from each bottle is donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
So go ahead and wash your cast iron cookware with confidence as this soap is specifically designed for that purpose. Keep your cookware looking like new with this essential cleaning solution.
7. Cast Iron Chain Scrubber For Easy Cleaning
Introducing a unique and effective way to clean your cast iron pans – the Chainmail Scrubber. Made with high-grade stainless steel, this scrubber is designed to resist rust and tarnish, ensuring optimal longevity. Say goodbye to steel wool cleaners that can damage the seasoning of your seasoned cast iron. With the Chainmail Scrubber, you can easily and safely treat your pans without worrying about losing that essential seasoning.
Measuring at 8 by 6 inches, this scrubber is compact enough to fit in a drawer without taking up too much space. Alternatively, you can hang it on a hook near your sink for easy access and convenience. The Chainmail Scrubber is easy to use and will quickly become a staple in your kitchen cleaning routine.
This scrubber is not only effective but also reliable. With fast shipping through Amazon, you can trust that you will receive your product promptly. The manufacturer is committed to providing quality products and thoughtful services to ensure your satisfaction.
Invest in the Chainmail Scrubber today and experience the convenience and effectiveness of this unique cleaning tool for your cast iron pans.
8. Cast Iron Chainmail Scrubber For Skillets.
Introducing the innovative and ergonomic design of the Cast Iron Scrubber with Silicone Handle. This scrubber is designed with a golden ratio that provides a better grip and keeps your hands away from the chain mail, so you won't hurt yourself while using it.
This multi-purpose chain mail scrubber is perfect for a wide range of kitchen cookware, including iron skillet, cast iron pan, griddle grill, wok, burner flattop, frying pan, carbon steel, pizza stone, pie pan, faucet, and much more. It is ideal for both home and camping use, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen tools.
Built for the long haul, the cast iron chainmail scrubber is made of 316 stainless steel that is closely connected and durable. It will not crack or bend even after many years of use, ensuring that you get the most out of your investment.
The Cast Iron Scrubber with Silicone Handle is also designed to be easier to clean. It saves you time and effort in cleaning your home kitchen cookware. After use, it is easy to clean, leaving no residue and not easy to breed bacteria. Simply dry it and it's ready to use again.
When you purchase this scrubber, you will receive 1 red Cast Iron Scrubber with 1 pan scraper and 1 grill scraper, all measuring 3.5*3.5*3.9 inches. As a trusted seller, customers can expect satisfactory customer service in accordance with Amazon's rules.
Upgrade your kitchen cookware cleaning routine with the Cast Iron Scrubber with Silicone Handle. With its ergonomic design, durable construction, and ease of use, it is a must-have for any kitchen.
9. Iron Scrubber Brush Set – Cast Iron Cleaning Kit
Introducing the best scrubber brush for all your cast iron cookware needs! This highly effective iron skillet scrubber is perfect for cleaning griddles, pans, pots, dutch ovens, and anything cast iron. Its wide cleaning head makes it easy to clean even the toughest of stains.
The scrubbing brush boasts of strong bristles that are durable and stiff but will not scratch surfaces. The comfortable handle is designed to ensure that you can clean your cookware without hurting your hands. You can now clean your pots and pans with ease using this powerful cleaning tool.
The best part? This cast iron skillet brush comes with a replacement brush head, which means you get two cleaning brushes in one pack! The replacement brush head has the same wide cleaning head as the original, ensuring that you can clean your cookware thoroughly.
This pot and pan scrubber is 100% non-scratch and will work perfectly on non-stick surfaces. It is designed to ensure that it does not ruin seasoning no matter how hard you scrub. You can clean your cookware with ease, without worrying about damaging them.
This premium scrub brush is feature-rich, with a nice and wide cleaning head, small bristle set for crevices, non-scratch, and a comfy handle. Its powerful cleaning tool is perfect for enameled pots and pans.
10. Kuche Chef's Cast Iron Skillet Cleaner
Introducing the all-natural kitchenware cleaning soap from Kuche Chef, specially designed to clean cast iron cookware while preserving its seasoning. Say goodbye to traditional detergent soaps that contain harmful chemicals like parabens, phosphates, and artificial foaming agents, and switch to a safer alternative that is manufactured using traditional soap making methods.
One of the unique features of this cast iron cleanser is that it is unscented, which eliminates unwanted odors and ensures that the seasoning of the pan and kitchenware is preserved. This soap can also be used on other kitchenware items to protect their surface coating from chemicals.
This soap is gentle and perfect for sensitive rice cooker bowls, carbon steel pans, and more. Cleaning your cookware is easy and hassle-free; simply apply a teaspoon of soap directly onto the cookware and clean with hot water using a soft-bristled brush. Once done, ensure that the cookware is thoroughly dried.
For optimal results, we recommend using Kuche Chef's everyday cast iron conditioner after each use to protect and restore the seasoning of your cookware. This soap is not only effective in cleaning your kitchenware, but it is also environmentally friendly, making it safe for you and your family to use.
Best Oil To Use On Cast Iron FAQs
Can I use butter instead of oil on cast iron?
Yes, you can use butter instead of oil on cast iron, but with some caveats. Cast iron is an excellent heat conductor, but it is also a porous material, meaning it can absorb flavors and odors from the food you cook in it. When you use butter on a cast iron skillet, the milk solids in the butter can burn at high temperatures, leaving a black, sticky residue on the pan's surface.
To avoid this, you can use clarified butter, also known as ghee, which has been heated to remove the milk solids. Clarified butter has a high smoke point, making it an excellent choice for high-heat cooking. Another option is to use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil.
Regardless of which fat you choose, be sure to use a small amount and spread it evenly over the surface of the pan. Too much oil or butter can lead to a greasy, unevenly cooked dish. And always be sure to properly clean and maintain your cast iron skillet to keep it in good condition for years to come.
Can I use olive oil on cast iron?
Yes, you can use olive oil on cast iron. In fact, olive oil is a great option for seasoning and maintaining cast iron. To season cast iron with olive oil, preheat your oven to 375°F and apply a thin layer of olive oil to the entire surface of your cast iron pan. Place the pan in the oven and bake for one hour. Repeat this process a few times, and you will have a well-seasoned cast iron pan that will be non-stick and easy to clean.
When using olive oil on cast iron for cooking, it is important to keep in mind that it has a lower smoke point than other oils, such as canola or vegetable oil. This means that it may smoke and burn at high temperatures, which can negatively affect the flavor of your food. Therefore, it is best to use olive oil for low to medium heat cooking, such as sautéing vegetables or frying eggs.
Overall, olive oil is a great option for seasoning and maintaining your cast iron pan, and can also be used for cooking as long as you keep the heat level in mind.
Can I use vegetable oil on cast iron?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil on cast iron. In fact, vegetable oil is a popular choice for seasoning cast iron cookware. Seasoning is the process of coating the cast iron with oil and heating it to create a nonstick surface that also helps prevent rust.
To season your cast iron with vegetable oil, start by cleaning the cookware with hot water and mild soap. Dry it thoroughly and then apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the entire piece, including the handle. Place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for one hour. Turn off the oven and let the cast iron cool completely before removing it.
After seasoning, you can continue to use vegetable oil to cook with your cast iron. Just be sure to use a high smoke point oil, such as canola or grapeseed, to prevent the oil from breaking down and smoking at high temperatures. It's also important to avoid using too much oil, as it can create a sticky residue on the surface of the cast iron.
How often should I oil my cast iron skillet?
Cast iron cookware is a great investment for any kitchen, but it requires proper care in order to maintain its longevity and performance. One of the most important aspects of caring for a cast iron skillet is oiling it regularly. The frequency of oiling your cast iron skillet depends on how often you use it and how you clean it.
If you use your cast iron skillet frequently, it is recommended to oil it once a week. However, if you use it less often, you can oil it less frequently. The key is to oil it enough to prevent rust and maintain a non-stick surface, but not so much that it becomes sticky or greasy.
When oiling your cast iron skillet, it is important to use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. Start by cleaning the skillet with hot water and a stiff brush, then dry it completely. Apply a thin layer of oil to the skillet, making sure to cover all surfaces, including the handle. Place the skillet upside down in a preheated oven and let it bake for an hour at 375°F. Let it cool in the oven before removing it.
By oiling your cast iron skillet regularly, you will ensure that it lasts for years to come and provides you with delicious, perfectly cooked meals every time.
Is it necessary to use oil on cast iron?
Yes, it is necessary to use oil on cast iron. Cast iron cookware is porous and can rust easily if not properly cared for. Applying a thin layer of oil to the surface of the cast iron helps to create a barrier between the iron and any moisture, preventing rust from forming. Additionally, the oil helps to create a non-stick surface on the cast iron, making it easier to cook with and clean.
To properly oil a cast iron pan, first clean it with hot water and a stiff brush. Then, dry the pan thoroughly and apply a thin layer of oil to the entire surface, including the handle and any ridges or grooves. Use a paper towel to spread the oil evenly and remove any excess. Place the pan in a preheated oven and bake for an hour at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This process, called seasoning, helps to create a durable non-stick surface on the cast iron that will improve with each use.
Is there a difference between using vegetable oil or canola oil on cast iron?
Yes, there is a difference between using vegetable oil and canola oil on cast iron. Vegetable oil is a type of oil that is derived from various plant sources, such as soybeans, sunflower seeds, and corn. Canola oil, on the other hand, is a type of vegetable oil that is made from the seeds of the canola plant.
When it comes to using oil on cast iron, canola oil is generally recommended over vegetable oil. This is because canola oil has a higher smoke point than vegetable oil, which means it can withstand higher temperatures without burning. This is important when seasoning or cooking with cast iron, as high heat is often required.
Additionally, canola oil has a neutral flavor and odor, which makes it ideal for use on cast iron. Vegetable oil, on the other hand, can have a distinct flavor and aroma depending on the specific type of oil used.
Overall, while both vegetable oil and canola oil can be used on cast iron, canola oil is the preferred choice due to its higher smoke point and neutral flavor.
What are the benefits of using flaxseed oil on cast iron?
Flaxseed oil is a popular seasoning option for cast iron cookware because it offers several benefits. Firstly, it creates a natural, non-stick surface on the cookware, making it easier to cook with and clean. Secondly, it helps to prevent rust and corrosion on the cast iron, which can prolong the life of the cookware. Thirdly, flaxseed oil is a healthy cooking option since it is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have numerous health benefits. Finally, using flaxseed oil on cast iron can help to develop a beautiful, dark patina on the cookware over time, which not only looks great but also enhances the flavor of food cooked in the pan. Overall, using flaxseed oil on cast iron is a great way to maintain and improve the quality of your cookware while also promoting healthy cooking practices.
What is the best oil to use on cast iron?
When it comes to cast iron, the best oil to use is one with a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. This is because cast iron can withstand high temperatures, and you don't want your oil to break down or impart any unwanted flavors to your food. Some good options include vegetable oil, grapeseed oil, canola oil, and flaxseed oil.
One of the most popular oils for cast iron is flaxseed oil, which is known for its ability to create a non-stick surface on the pan. To use flaxseed oil on your cast iron, you'll want to preheat your oven to 400°F, apply a thin coat of the oil to the surface of the pan, and then bake it in the oven for an hour. Repeat this process a few times to build up a nice seasoning on your cast iron.
Ultimately, the best oil to use on your cast iron will depend on your personal preferences, but as long as you choose an oil with a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, you should be in good shape.
What is the best way to season cast iron with oil?
Seasoning cast iron with oil is an essential step in maintaining the quality of your cast iron cookware. There are different ways to season your cast iron pan, but the most effective method is by using oil.
To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C). Wash your cast iron cookware with hot water and mild soap, and then dry it completely. Once it's dry, coat the entire surface of the cookware with a thin layer of oil, such as vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, or canola oil. Use a paper towel or a clean cloth to spread the oil evenly and make sure there are no excesses.
Put your cast iron cookware in the oven upside down, with a sheet of aluminum foil under it to catch any drips. Leave it in the oven for an hour, then turn off the heat and let it cool down in the oven.
Repeat this process three to four times until your cast iron cookware develops a glossy, non-stick surface. This process will give your cookware a natural non-stick surface and prevent rusting. Remember to avoid using soap or abrasive materials to clean your seasoned cast iron cookware, as this can damage the seasoning.
What type of oil should I avoid using on cast iron?
When it comes to cooking with cast iron, there are a few types of oil you should avoid using. These include oils that have a low smoke point and oils that are prone to going rancid quickly.
Firstly, you should avoid using oils with a low smoke point, such as butter, flaxseed oil, and extra virgin olive oil. When these oils are heated, they can smoke and burn, leaving a sticky, gummy residue on your cast iron that is difficult to remove.
Secondly, you should avoid using oils that are prone to going rancid quickly, such as vegetable oil and canola oil. These oils can leave a funky, unpleasant taste on your cast iron, which can be difficult to get rid of.
Instead, opt for oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, grapeseed oil, and peanut oil. These oils are more stable at high temperatures and won't leave a gummy residue on your cast iron. Remember to always use a minimal amount of oil when cooking with cast iron to prevent buildup and maintain its non-stick properties.
