Le Creuset casseroles are not only easy to use but also very easy to clean. Since 1925, they have been made from our remarkably durable and robust enamelled cast iron. Our enamelled cast iron cookware is finished with vibrant enamel (both inside and out) that does not require the same level of care and consideration as raw or traditional cast iron cookware—it doesn’t need to be seasoned, will not rust, is dishwasher-safe, and can be washed with soap.
To make cleanup even easier, the interior of our casseroles features our sand-coloured enamel. This smooth glass-like enamel surface resists staining and prevents sticking, making cooking and clean-up even easier.
To keep your cookware in excellent shape for many recipes and generations to come, we've compiled these helpful tips for caring for and cleaning Le Creuset Enamelled Cast Iron. For more detailed care and use guides, please see here.
Casserole Cleaning Tips
Our casseroles are dishwasher-safe, but we recommend hand washing to keep the finish beautiful for many recipes to come. Over time, constant dishwashing may lead to some dulling of the enamel finish, but this will not hinder the cooking performance. To clean your casserole, simply follow these easy steps:
- First off, you always want to allow the pan to cool to room temperature before cleaning. You never want to place a hot pan in cold water, or fill a hot pot with cold water. That may lead to cracking of the enamel due to thermal shock.
- Use a soft non-metal sponge or brush (natural or nylon) to wash the interior and exterior with warm water and a mild dish soap. Don’t use metal sponges, abrasive cleaners or utensils as they may scratch the enamel surface.
- Rinse and dry the cookware thoroughly before putting it away.
Use a soft nylon cleaning pad to clean your Casserole.
Cleaning Stubborn Stuck-on or Burnt Food
Sometimes, you may end up with stubborn or burnt, stuck-on food that doesn’t easily come off. One of the most common reasons for stuck-on food is using a heat setting that is too high and overheating a casserole. Because Le Creuset enamelled cast iron has exceptional heat distribution and retention, you only need to use low or medium heat while cooking. Also, if you use oils and fat when cooking or baking they can leave a sticky residue on your casserole when heated to high temperatures.
If you find yourself with a casserole that has stubborn stuck-on food or oil residue, fill the pot with warm soapy water and allow it to soak. Or you can also fill the pot with warm water and a tablespoon or two of baking soda, and bring the water to a simmer for about 8-10 minutes. Once the food residue has softened, cool and drain the liquid in the pot. Rinse and dry, and you should be good to go.
Caring and Storing Your Enamelled Cast Iron Cookware
You can keep your enamelled cast iron cookware looking great for generations by periodically using our Le Creuset Cast Iron Cookware Cleaner. It’s ideal for removing tough stains, oil residue and marks and keeps the enamel finish vibrant.
Be sure to thoroughly dry enamelled cast iron cookware after washing, and store it in a dry cupboard away from steam and moisture. Our felt Cookware Protectors are a great way to protect nested or stacked pans in storage. Tough and durable, these felt pan protectors provide a soft, cushioned layer between stacked pans to help prevent scratches.
Another clever idea for pots with a lid is to keep the little plastic pot lid spacers that come with the pot. This helps prevent chips and scratches on a casserole's top edge and allows air to circulate inside the pot.
