What to Know About Lodge Dishwasher-safe Cast Iron Cookware
Lodge heat-treated cast iron helps operators streamline cleaning in the kitchen, while still reaping the benefits of cast iron cookware. Rather than taking the time to scrape off burnt food, hand wash the pan, and then season it, staff can simply place this cast iron cookware in the dishwasher and reduce the time it takes to clean and season the dish. Below, we'll discuss how Lodge has created dishwasher-safe cast iron cookware as well as how to care for the products and why standard cast iron isn't dishwasher safe.
What Makes Cast Iron Dishwasher Safe?
To create dishwasher-safe cast iron, Lodge developed a unique treatment process that removes oxygen from the metal's surface and replaces it with nitrogen.1 This patented heat treatment prevents rust from forming on the surface of the cookware.
Even though these Lodge dishwasher-safe pieces are rust resistant, it's important to maintain their seasoned coating. Seasoning, rather than being a layer of oils that sits on the surface, is baked on and will naturally continue to develop as you use your pan. Lodge preseasons each of its cast iron pieces with oil and recommends that users maintain this coating by rubbing a light layer of cooking oil or seasoning spray on the pan while it's still warm. Users should then wipe down the cookware with a paper towel to remove excess oil.
Lodge Dishwasher-safe Cast Iron Cookware
Lodge manufactures several servers, skillets, kettles, and covers that are manufactured for dishwasher use. Like any cast iron cookware, Lodge's line of dishwasher-safe cast iron can be used on stovetops, ranges, grills, or campfires and in ovens. Though the products are dishwasher safe, hand washing is still recommended to prolong service life.
How to Clean Lodge Heat-treated Cast Iron
Lodge recommends washing these pieces by hand or in the dishwasher. Operators should not soak these dishwasher-safe pans to remove stuck-on food. Instead, users should utilize a food scraper to remove food and can simmer water in the pan for a few minutes to help loosen debris. After washing, operators should pat the cookware dry and oil the pan.2
For more information on caring for cast iron, read our in-depth guide on Lodge cast iron care and maintenance.
Why Can't You Put Some Cast Iron in the Dishwasher?
When considering adding Lodge cast iron cookware to your collection, it's important to remember that not all the company's cast iron is dishwasher safe. In general, most cast iron cookware cannot be placed in a dishwasher because certain detergents will strip away the rust-resistant surface.3 Additionally, operators purchasing cast iron should check whether it's heat-treated or labeled dishwasher safe in the product description to ensure it can be placed in a dishwasher.
References
- Seasoned Ferrous Cookware. United States Patent. Accessed March 2023.
- How to Clean and Care for Heat-treated Serveware. Lodge Cast Iron. Accessed March 2023.
- 21 Things You Should Never Put in the Dishwasher. Today. Accessed March 2023.
