Le Creuset is a well-known brand in the cookware world and has been around since 1925. This long history has made them a well-trusted brand. But that's not the only reason why people gravitate to them. Their durable construction, high-quality materials, and versatile color options make it so anyone can find a piece that fits within their style. Le Creuset even offers a limited lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.

If taken care of properly, Le Creuset enameled cast iron cookware could potentially last your lifetime and be passed down to the next generation.

The good news is that cleaning and maintaining your Le Creuset cookware isn't difficult but does require a little more than simply throwing it in the dishwasher.

Since many of Le Creuset's items are an investment, I've slowly been purchasing some of their products over the years, and it has been worth that initial investment. So far, I've tested and/or owned their skillets, saucepans, and Dutch ovens, and I have made a few hiccups along the road regarding caring for the cookware properly. I'm here to offer what I've learned from my experience so that you can avoid chips, cracks, or damage to your pans, pots, or Dutch ovens.

How to Clean Le Creuset Cookware

What You’ll Need:

• Dishwashing soap
• A non-abrasive sponge or scrub brush
• Baking soda
• Kitchen towel/paper towel for drying

Step 1: Allow cookware to cool

After using your cookware, allow it to cool completely before cleaning. Washing your enameled cast iron cookware while it is still hot leaves the potential for the enamel to crack due to thermal shock.

Step 2: Wash

Once cooled, run your cookware under warm water, apply some dish soap, and use your non-abrasive sponge or scrub brush to clean. Make sure you’re not only washing the surface of your cookware but also the exterior and bottom of the pan or pot, ensuring you get rid of any spilled food or grease.

Step 3: Stuck on food

First, try soaking your cookware for approximately 15 minutes in hot, soapy water. After letting it soak, try cleaning as normal, and likely, any stuck-on food will come off with a little bit of elbow grease.

However, if you still find yourself stuck on food, try adding a couple of tablespoons of baking soda and some warm water to your cookware. Place your cookware on the stovetop and bring the water to a simmer for around 10 minutes. This should help the food residue soften. Turn off the heat and allow the cookware to cool again before taking it back to the sink to clean as usual.

Step 4: How to care for and store your cookware

After cleaning your cookware, be sure to dry it with a kitchen towel or paper towel and store it in a dry cupboard that is going to be free of steam or moisture. Ensure that you have plenty of space between your cookware so they don't bump into each other. If you need to stack your cookware, place a kitchen towel between the pots and pans as an extra layer of protection.

Best Tips and Practices

• Cook on medium to medium-low heat to avoid overheating your cookware. Overheating your cookware can lead to frequent burnt or stuck on food. Since Le Creuset cookware is made of enameled cast iron, it distributes heat extremely well and can also retain that heat just as well.
• For stained areas, mix a bit of baking soda and water until it forms a paste. Apply the paste to the stained area and rub in circular motions. If that stain is still stubborn, try adding about a 1/2 to 1-inch of hydrogen peroxide and add some baking soda, approximately 1/4 cup. This will act as a mild bleach and should get out those stains.

What to Avoid

• Although much of Le Creuset's cookware is dishwasher-safe, it is recommended to wash it by hand to avoid the enamel breakdown that can happen with frequent dishwashing.
• Avoid using metal utensils, and opt for wooden or silicone utensils instead. Metal utensils can create scratches and chip away at your enameled cookware.
• Instead of using abrasive cleaners, opt for mild dish soap and baking soda for those stuck on foods.
• Never use steel wool on enameled cookware. Although steel wool comes in handy for raw cast iron in removing rust from your enameled cookware, it can easily damage the enamel coating.

Reach Out to a Curated Expert

Although Le Creuset is well known for its enameled cast iron cookware and this "how to" is specifically geared to that, these days, they offer even more, such as nonstick cookware and stainless steel. So you can get those essential enameled cast iron pieces and then branch out to the other material options for the rest of your cookware.

I hope this brief "how to" gives you some helpful advice on how to properly care for your Le Creuset cookware so that you can get the longest lifespan possible from it. If you are curious about what products Le Creuset has to offer, head over to Curated.com and chat with a Kitchen Expert. We'd love to help you get set up and offer any additional tips or recipes. Happy cooking!