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The Dutch oven is one of the most versatile cookware around. Whether you're stewing, braising, or cooking in a variety of other ways, the Dutch oven will suffice. It's important to get as much value for money as possible, and the easiest way to do this is to learn how to properly clean a Dutch oven, as proper maintenance will make your oven work as expected throughout its life.

Dutch ovens are different

Before you jump straight into our cleaning program, be sure to note that Dutch ovens are made of many different materials and our recommended cleaning techniques will vary as a result, so if you don't already know what your oven is made of, take the time to do some quick research before returning here. The most common materials are cast iron, enameled cast iron, ceramic and stainless steel.

How do I clean a cast Iron Dutch Oven

If you're here because you're trying to figure out how to clean a cast-iron Dutch oven, you're definitely not alone. The original Dutch oven material, cast iron is known for its uniform cooking and longevity, and as a result, it remains one of the most popular varieties available today. However, it is also the heaviest type of oven and requires special maintenance, such as occasional seasoning.

After each use, wait for your cast iron Dutch oven to cool down, then wipe down the entire interior and exterior with a paper towel. It's easier to start this process while the Dutch oven is still a little hot than to wait until it's completely cool. This step is sometimes the only one, but if there is some food left over or the inside feels greasy...

Place a few drops of dishwashing liquid on a moist non-abrasive sponge and wipe down your Dutch oven. If that doesn't get the job done, try using a non-abrasive plastic scraper. The "non-abrasive" descriptor is important here because you want to avoid scratching the surface of the oven, and therefore avoid using steel velvet, metal scrapers, or anything else that might cause scratching. Cast iron ovens are also prone to rust, so make sure water never comes in contact with the oven for too long.

Finally, season your oven before first use or whenever its surface doesn't look like glass. Just pour half a teaspoon of vegetable oil into the oven and wipe it all over the inside and outside with a paper towel until everything is absorbed.

How do I clean an enamel Dutch Oven

Now that you know how to clean a cast-iron Dutch oven, you pretty much know how to clean an enamelled cast-iron Dutch oven. However, these ovens are not identical. Enamelled cast iron ovens are usually more valuable than regular cast iron ovens because they are easier to clean and do not require seasoning.

After each use, wipe the outside with a non-abrasive sponge and some dry baking soda to begin your cleaning routine. Next, use the same sponge to wipe down the inside, but this time add dish soap and hot water. Non-abrasive plastic scrapers can be used as a last resort to prevent food from getting stuck, but the beauty of an enamelled cast iron oven is how rare it is for food to actually get stuck.

As with the pure cast iron variant, do the job by thoroughly drying the oven, but this time you mainly just want to prevent water stains, as enamel cast iron does not rust easily. However, it's best not to take chances, as some enameled cast iron ovens have exposed cast iron borders, so don't leave any type of cast iron oven wet for long periods of time.

Recommendations for all Dutch ovens

1. If longevity is your goal, you should not put a Dutch oven in the dishwasher.

2. While rust only affects cast iron ovens, scratches are the enemy of all Dutch ovens. Always clean and handle your oven carefully, and as an added measure, store your Dutch oven by placing a paper towel between the bottom and the lid.