How Do I Clean Le Creuset Cookware

Do you like Le Creuset cookware like I do? If so, how perfectly do they work? However, removing stains—especially ones that appear nearly impossible—is the most difficult task. In these situations, one question always comes to mind: How do I clean Le Creuset cookware?

What Is Le Creuset Cookware?

Le Creuset cookware is a highly rated manufacturer of many colorful enameled cast iron cookware products. Initially produced in 1925, it remains extremely popular among chefs and everyday cooks because of the product’s ability to maintain heat and distribute it evenly. 

It’s a beautifully designed range of cookware that is also hard-wearing and can be placed into the dishwasher for easy cleaning with no sign of the enamel flaking or fading.

What Is Le Creuset, Metal or Ceramic?

The main material of Le Creuset is metal, specifically cast iron. It is glazed and has a smooth enamel surface, making it colorful and easy to wash. 

While it resembles ceramic, the material comprising the core is metal. Thus, it’s rugged and a great performer on the cooking plate.

How Do I Clean Le Creuset Cookware?

I will tell you four easy methods to clean the crust cookware, but you must follow them for optimal results.

1. Boil Water Method

• First, put hot water into your pot to half or even up to the level of the stained area, and add a little dish soap into the water.
• In the second place, allow the water to boil uncovered. Turn down the heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda, and simmer for about 10 minutes.

Tip: ‘However, it is possible to stand the hot water in your pot now for a while and turn out the heat. As you stir the food in the pot, do not use spoons or spatulas made of metal to remove the side piece of food that is sticking on the sides and bottom of your pot.’

• Remove the water and let the pot stand until you can comfortably touch it.

Hopefully, you don’t have to use hot water, but maybe be careful not to spill some hot water on your skin.

• Finally, use a brush with nylon bristles or a sponge with an acidic surface. Use hot, soapy water to remove any remaining stains from items like the ones mentioned above.
• Pat dry with a little paper towel or a dishcloth.

2. Baking Soda Method

Baking soda from your local stores can prove highly efficient in removing burned areas from your Dutch oven’s interior and exterior parts. It will take a shorter time to clean it if it is attained or if you want to clean it. 

• Prepare a mixture by taking two large spoonfuls of baking soda and approximately three drops of warm water.
• However, wipe the stained areas with spirit evenly and leave it for several hours up to overnight. The pot’s outside and inside can be coated with this paste.
• Finally, wipe the surface using a nylon scourer or sponge with soapy hot water to remove stubborn stains. Rinse & dry.

3. Bar Keepers Friend

If the baking soda paste is not effectively removing difficult stains, you can use Bar Keepers Friend. I have personally used this method many times to remove the toughest stains.

• Start by rinsing your pot with water, but don’t dry it later. 
• Next, sprinkle a good amount of Bar Keeper’s Friend inside the pot. The leftover water will help it spread around. 
• Let this sit for a few minutes to work its magic. 
• After that, use a gentle scrubbing sponge to clean the pot. You should put some effort into getting it nice and clean!

4. Bleach and Water Soak

Ok, when all else fails. If it is true that bleach can cause damage to the enamel, then I must confess that the diluted solution of bleach and water I used recently was simply wonderful in cleaning my newly acquired Le Creuset pot, which I bought for $ 12 in a thrift store.

• Moreover, one teaspoon of bleach is required for one pint of water [2 cups]. Let it soak overnight. I let mine soak for 2 days so that after rushing through other duties, pressing it wouldn’t consume most of my time.
• Once your pot has been soaked in bleach water, rinse it and drain the bleach from the pot. Rinse out your pot with hot, soapy water and fill it up with more than a normal wad of paper towel. Discard the paper towel, then wash your pot.
• Finally, wash your pot with warm water and soap, then use a sponge to remove the remaining traces of ash. Pat dry with warm water only; avoid soaking in water for long periods.

Can I Use A Metal Scrubber On The Le Creuset Cookware?

No, I do not recommend using a metal scrubber for this; there are some reasons that, after hearing them, you might also feel compelled to avoid it.

1. Enamel Vulnerability

• The outer layer of enamel on the cast iron from Le Creuset is relatively thin and can easily chip or scratch if washed with rough agents such as metal choppers and pads. This damage can occur on both the outer surface and how the cookware operates, that is, in functionality.

2. Recommended Cleaning Tools

• Avoid using abrasive scrubs or scouring pads to clean your cookware, as they harm your non-stick cookware. These tools clean effectively without any adverse effect on the tooth enamel.

3. Avoid Abrasive Cleaners

• According to the Le Creuset company, metal utensils, scrubbers, and abrasive cleaners should be avoided. This method of cleaning the cookware prolongs its lifespan and maintains its quality.

What Not to Use on Le Creuset: Safe Practices

When you use Le Creuset cookware, there are some things you should keep in mind to ensure it doesn’t get damaged. 

You might already be aware of some of these things because when we buy such items, we usually have the instructions for use that come with them.

Well, I will explain in detail and suggest easy alternatives so your work isn’t interrupted.

1. Metal Scrubbers and Pads

Why Avoid: As I told you, metal scrubbers and pads are famous for leaving deep scratches on the enamel surface, making it lousy underneath and chipping on the sides. 

These scratches not only spoil the outer appearance of the cookware but also make some portions of the cookware stick-prone.

• Alternative: Avoid scraping or scrubbing with metal; use soft sponges or nylon brushes for nonstick cookware. These tools will help clean the utensils, removing all the food residues without scratching the utensils’ enamel.

2. Sharp Cleaners

Why Avoid: Substances like Comet contain high levels of sharpness, which can remove the protective layer of enamel. It gradually makes the cookware unattractive by fading off on the surface and developing dullness and discoloration.

• Alternative: Using mild cleaning agents to clean enamel utensils is recommended. These products are great for stain removal and harmless to your Le Creuset products.

3. Steel Wool

Why Avoid: Steel wool is Another rough scrubber you should never use on seasoned pots. It will also cut into the enamel surface and weaken its structure; it will wear out faster than required.

• Alternative: Do not use anything hard, such as rough clothes or hard sponges, to avoid scratching the windshields.

4. High Heat

Why Avoid: Cooking at high heat can cause fine cracks to form on the surface of the enamel lining. It changes the appearance of your cookware and can cause the breakdown process to progress in the future.

• Alternative: One should avoid high heat temperatures while cooking to obtain the best results. It’ll enable us to maintain the enamel quality and cook the food evenly.

Conclusion

There are many methods for Le Creuset cookware, but you should use the one that suits you. Always wash and maintain your cooking utensils; if you focus on this, they will last a long time. Which method do you like best, and have you used any methods for this? Please share your review with me.