Never put your cast iron cookware in the dishwasher. Abrasive cleaners and sponges will remove the pans seasoning. If you want a new skillet, this Lodge 8' skillet is what I have shown here being ...

Cleaning cast iron cookware is easy with this shopper-loved tool from Lodge. Grab this chainmail scrubbing pad for less than $20 at Amazon.

Your cookware can last for generations, but you have to de-gunk and season it properly — follow this easy step-by-step guide.