How to Care for Your Crumble Cast-Iron Cookware

Hey foodie friend, just unboxed your Crumble cast-iron cookware? (yay!) 
With a sprinkle of love and the proper care, your Crumble can be your culinary companion for years to come. We know how confusing it can be with all the mixed advice out there. So, here are some simple tips to keep your Crumble in top-notch condition and brand spankin' clean.
 
HOW TO MAKE STUBBORN STAINS YOUR FRIENDS
We wish we could promise that your cookware will stay as shiny as the day you unboxed it, but with regular use, it will develop some character in the form of stubborn stains.
Here’s what you might see: 
  • Stains after oven use (resulting from leftover residue/oils within the oven)
  • Rust marks from moisture or leaving it in the dishwasher for too long 
  • Stubborn food stains from overheating the cookware 
FINDING THE RIGHT TOOLS
While cast-iron can handle almost anything, there are a few cleaning products that could do more harm than good to your enamel surface and exterior. Here’s what you should consider adding to your shopping list to keep your Crumble in top shape: 
Soft sponges and cloths: 
Always pamper your Crumble with a sponge and/or cloth that won’t scratch or degrade your enamel surface and cast-iron exterior. Crumble tip: if it feels rough on your skin, it’s definitely too harsh for your Crumble! 
Gentle cleaning agents: 
We usually recommend Bar Keeper's Friend to assist with (extra) stubborn stains, but you can also achieve a squeaky-clean result using everyday kitchen essentials such as baking soda, dishwashing liquid and vinegar. 
Non-abrasive utensils: 
Skip the metal sponges and/or abrasive scourers and instead opt for a non-scratch spatula or sponge to coax those stubborn stains away. 
 
YOUR STEP-BY-STEP CLEANING GUIDE 
STEP 1:
Don't have time to run to the shops? No worries!
Just grab your trusty baking soda, a jug of water, and a
non-scratch spatula and let's get cleaning.
STEP 2:
Add 4 cups of water to your Crumble cast-iron cookware 
and bring to a simmer over low heat.
Crumble tip: Always cook on low-to-medium heat to avoid overheating.
STEP 3:
Once at a simmer, add 1-2 tbsp of baking soda and let it dissolve.
Crumble fact: Baking sod is mildly abrasive which makes it perfect
for gentle cleaning and lifting stubborn stains.
STEP 4:
Scrub your Crumble with a non-scratch spatula and stir until most of the residue loosens and floats to the surface. Turn off the heat and let cool. 
Crumble tip: Cast-iron doesn't like surprises, especially when it comes to temperature. Leave your pot to cool down completely before you do the next step.
STEP 5:
Carefully drain the water and add a drizzle of dish soap.
Scrub any leftover stains with a soft sponge.
STEP 6:
Rinse well with warm, soapy water and thoroughly dry your Crumble with a tea towel to avoid any rusting.
Crumble tip: For extra stubborn stains, you may have to repeat this process.
STEP 7:
Your Crumble cast-iron cookware is not clean and
ready for it's next culinary adventure!
Cleaning can be a real pain in the (you know what...) but fear not! With these tips you're one step closer to a lifetime kitchen companion.
Got some lingering stubborn stains?
Reach out to us at support@crumble.co for more help and advice!