So, you’ve just finished cooking a delicious meal in your trusty cast iron skillet, and now it’s clean-up time. You might be tempted to toss it in the dishwasher—after all, that’s what it’s for, right? Big mistake! Here’s why putting cast iron in the dishwasher is a disaster waiting to happen.
1. Rust, Rust, and More Rust
Cast iron is highly prone to rust if exposed to moisture for too long. Dishwashers use hot water, detergent, and high-pressure jets, which strip away the seasoning (that protective oil layer) and leave the bare metal exposed. The result? Your skillet turns into a rusty mess.
2. Seasoning Gets Destroyed
That beautiful, non-stick surface you’ve worked so hard to build up? Gone. Dishwasher detergents are too harsh for cast iron and will strip away the seasoning, leaving you with a dull, dry pan that food will stick to. You’ll have to completely re-season it before using it again.
3. Warping and Cracking
Cast iron is tough, but it doesn’t like sudden temperature changes. The extreme heat from the dishwasher’s drying cycle can cause it to warp, and if it gets banged around inside, small cracks can develop over time.
How to Properly Clean Cast Iron Instead
- Skip the soap – A little hot water and a scrub with a stiff brush or salt should do the trick.
- Dry it immediately – Wipe it down and even place it over low heat to evaporate any remaining moisture.
- Re-season regularly – A thin layer of oil keeps your cast iron smooth and rust-free.
The Bottom Line
Never put cast iron in the dishwasher! If you do, be prepared to deal with rust, a ruined seasoning, and possible warping. Instead, clean it the right way, and your cast iron will last for generations.
Got a rusty pan from a dishwasher mistake? No worries—check out our guide on how to restore cast iron and bring it back to life!