Can You Use Bar Keepers Friend on Enameled Cast Iron?

Enameled cast iron cookware is highly durable, but sadly, over time, this can get stained or discolored. You will be left wondering how to keep them clean and pristine. A common question is, can you use Bar Keepers Friend on enameled cast iron, a well-known cleaning product, on your enameled cast iron without causing damage?

Yes, Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser and Polish are safe for enameled cast iron cookware, as their non-abrasive formula won’t cause scratches on the enamel surface. It will help remove stubborn stains. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging your enameled cast iron.

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About Bar Keepers Friend

You can use Bar Keepers Friend made for cookware on enameled cookware such as enameled cast iron pots and pans, Dutch ovens, skillets, and grills.

* This brand has an extensive range of these products, and not all are suitable for enamel coatings.

This versatile cleaner is safe for enameled surfaces, and its mild abrasive action can effectively remove stains and food residues while being gentle on your cookware’s finish.

Bar Keepers Friend’s Soft Cleanser combines an acid-based cleaner and a mild abrasive mineral powder (feldspar) that is softer than the enamel.

While Bar Keepers Friend is safe for enameled cast iron, it is important to note that it should not be used on uncoated cast iron (seasoned) or other materials like marble, granite, plastic, nonstick pans, wood, enamelware, and melamine.

Always read the product label and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for use and compatibility with your specific cookware materials.

Can You Use Bar Keepers Friend on Enameled Cast Iron Cookware

You can use Bar Keepers Friend made for cookware on enameled cookware such as enameled cast iron pots and pans, Dutch ovens, skillets, and grills.

To clean your enameled cookware with Bar Keepers Friend, follow these simple steps:

Rinse your cookware with water and leave it wet. This helps the cleaner adhere to the surface and prevents it from falling off.

Sprinkle a tablespoon or so of Bar Keepers Friend onto the bottom of the pot or pan. A damp sponge can also be used to apply the cleaner.

Scrub small areas using a soft, wet sponge in a circular motion.

Rinse the cookware thoroughly with water to remove any remaining cleaner residue.

Dry your cookware with a soft cloth or paper towel to prevent water spots or streaks.

Tips for Safe Use

Rinse the clean, enameled cast iron pan with water: Make sure your enameled cast iron pan is rinsed with water, leaving it wet before applying the cleaner.

Applying the cleaner: Sprinkle a tablespoon or so of the product on the bottom of the pan for effective cleaning results.

Scrub gently: Using a soft, wet sponge (and avoiding abrasive materials), scrub small areas of the pan in circular motions. This will help remove stains and grime without harming the enamel coating.

Rinse and dry: After scrubbing, rinse the pan with water and dry it using a soft cloth or paper towel. Repeat the process as needed to remove stubborn stains.

Stubborn stains: In case of particularly persistent stains, you can resort to a bleach solution containing three tablespoons per quart of water. Let this solution work on cleaning tough stains for 2-3 hours.

Alternatives to Bar Keepers Friend

When cleaning enamel cast iron, it’s essential to avoid highly abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or other harsh scrubbers.

These can scratch or damage your enamel surface, resulting in a dull finish or even chipping. Using citrus-based cleaners can degrade the enamel, so it’s best to steer clear of these as well.

Other Cleaning Methods

There are several gentle alternatives when you need to deep clean enameled cast iron without resorting to abrasive cleaners. Here are a few methods to maintain the integrity and appearance of your cookware:

Baking Soda: A mild yet effective cleaning solution uses baking soda paste. Mix equal parts soda and water to form a paste. Apply it to your enamel surface and scrub gently using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Rinse thoroughly and dry.

Soapy Water: One of the simplest ways to clean enamel cast iron is using warm, soapy water. Fill your sink with warm water, add mild dish soap, and let your cookware soak for a few minutes. Then, clean it using a soft sponge or cloth, avoiding abrasive materials. Rinse well before drying.

White Vinegar: A diluted white vinegar solution can also effectively clean enamel cast iron. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, soak a soft cloth in the solution, and gently scrub the surface. Rinse well and dry.

Soft Cleanser: There are also non-abrasive cleansers specifically designed for use on enameled surfaces, such as Bon Ami. These mild formulas can remove stains and food debris without causing damage to the otherwise enameled surface.

Brand cleaner: See if your brand makes a cleaner for your enameled cookware. Just like the one Le Creuset manufactures and endorses for its cookware.

What Is Enameled Cast Iron?

Enameled cast iron is a type of cookware that combines the benefits of traditional cast iron with a layer of enamel coating. This coating not only gives it a beautiful and colorful appearance but also offers some practical advantages.

• The enamel layer prevents rusting; it can be a common issue with traditional cast iron cookware.
• The enameled cast iron clean top also provides a non-reactive and non-stick surface, making it ideal for cooking acidic foods like tomato-based sauces.
• An enameled pan is easier to clean and maintain, thanks to the smooth, non-porous surface of the enamel.
• Enameled cast iron heats evenly and retains heat well, similar to traditional cast iron.
• It’s perfect for slow cooking, braising, and baking.
• The enamel coating also means you can use less oil when cooking, leading to healthier, more nutritious meals.
• These cookware pieces come in various shapes and sizes, including skillets, Dutch ovens, and casserole dishes.
• They are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, making them great additions to your kitchen.
• There are many popular brands of enameled cast iron cookware in the market, such as Le Creuset, Staub, and Lodge.

Cleaning Enameled Cast Iron

Basic Cleaning Methods

To clean enameled cast iron, simply fill your sink with warm water and dish soap and gently scrub the surface using a wet sponge. This method will remove most food residue without risking damage to the enamel.

Remember, don’t use abrasive tools or harsh detergents, as they can damage the enamel coating. After cleaning, rinse your enamel piece thoroughly and dry it with a soft cloth.

Dealing with Tough Stains

Difficult stains on a cast iron Dutch oven can be a bit more challenging to clean. To remove stubborn built-up food stains and burnt-on food residue, you can use Bar Keepers Friend.

• Rinse the Dutch oven with cold water and leave it wet.
• Sprinkle a tablespoon or so of the cleaner on the bottom of the Dutch oven.
• Use a soft, wet sponge and scrub small areas in a circular motion, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Use just enough scrubbing power…
• Rinse the Dutch oven or other cast iron cookware thoroughly with water.
• Dry with a soft cloth then repeat as needed.
• If stains are still persistent, you can try using a bleach solution. Mix 3 tablespoons of household bleach per quart of water, filling the pot or pan partly with the solution.
• Let it sit for 2-3 hours and then clean following the basic cleaning methods mentioned earlier.

Common Issues and Solutions

In this section, we’ll discuss common problems you might encounter while using enameled cast iron cookware and how to solve them using Bar Keepers Friend.

Removing Metal Marks

Removing metal marks caused by using metal utensils on your enameled cast iron is easy you can use Bar Keepers Friend.

Simply rinse the affected area with warm water, then sprinkle a small amount of the cleaner on a wet sponge or cloth.

Gently scrub the metal marks, being careful not to use too much pressure to avoid scratching the enamel.

Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

Handling Stuck-on Food

Stuck-on food can be a pain to remove from your enameled cast iron. Hand washing is best, fill the cookware with warm water and a little dish soap, then let it soak for 15-30 minutes.

After soaking, use a non-abrasive scrubber to gently remove the food residue. If stubborn bits remain, apply a small amount of the cleaner to a damp sponge, then scrub gently until the food is gone.

Afterward, rinse the area thoroughly and dry it with a soft cloth.

Dealing with Discoloration

Over time, your enameled cast iron may develop discoloration from heat or oil residue. To remove these stains, follow these steps:

Rinse the cookware with warm water to help the cleaner adhere to the surface.

Sprinkle about a tablespoon of the powder onto the discolored area.

Using a wet sponge or cloth, scrub the stain gently, making sure not to apply too much pressure to avoid scratching the enamel.

Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then dry using a soft cloth or paper towel.

Proper Care and Maintenance

Caring for your enameled cast iron cookware, such as Dutch ovens, begins with preventing damage. To avoid thermal shock, always let your cookware cool down before washing it.

Don’t plunge a hot pot into cold water, as this can cause cracks or even break the enamel.

When it’s time to clean, hand wash your enameled cookware with, soapy water and a soft sponge or dishcloth. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaning tools, as these can damage the enamel surface.

Instead, opt for a gentle cleaner made for enamel which can effectively remove stains and build-up without damaging the enamel.

Here are a few essential tips for proper care and maintenance of your enameled cast iron cookware:

1. Use only medium heat when cooking to avoid damaging the enamel.
2. Coat the inside with a thin layer of oil to prevent food from sticking.
3. Avoid dragging metal tools or utensils across the surface to prevent scratching the enamel.
4. When dealing with stubborn stains or burned-on food, follow these steps:
5. Fill your enameled cookware with hot water, and bring it to a gentle simmer.
6. Let it sit for a few minutes, then carefully remove the hot pan, and cool it from the heat.
7. Allow the cookware to cool down, then use a plastic scraper to remove the loosened bits.
8. Storing cast iron to avoid cracking and chipping by using towels or pot protectors when stacking in your cupboard.

One-Pot Cooking Rocks!