How to remove scorch marks from enameled cast-iron to make your pans look brand new

Off white Amazon Basic Dutch oven — (Image credit: Future)

I tend to cook a lot of one-pot meals, and I love using my enameled cast-iron Dutch oven as it’s super-sized and versatile — I can move it straight from my cooktop into my oven. But, because I use it most days, it does come up against a fair few messy overspills and scorch marks.

However, as I value the aesthetic of my cast-iron cookware, I leave my Dutch oven on my countertop. So, to keep it looking its best, I need to ensure it is thoroughly cleaned to maintain its brand-new appearance.

But although I prefer using enameled cast-iron over traditional cast-iron, which I explain below, it doesn’t handle high temperatures as well. This means that you’re more likely to notice scorch marks on the bottom of your pan. And to ensure the residue from these scorch marks doesn’t cause further damage to the enamel coating it needs to be removed.

While you might be worried about scrubbing away at the enamel coating, there is an easy way to remove scorch marks — and all it takes is a couple of ingredients that are already in your kitchen.

How to clean scorch marks off an enamel cast-iron pan

Cast iron skillets on a gas stove — (Image credit: Tom's Guide)

1. Begin by washing your cookware in hot soapy water.

2. Allow your pan to dry.

3. Make up a cleaning paste using baking soda and water.

4. Apply the paste to the scorch marks and leave for at least 15 minutes.

5. Rinse off the paste and rewash your pan.

How not to clean enamel cast-iron

Although enameled cast iron is dishwasher-safe, Lodge recommends handwashing it to preserve the finish. It also advises using a gentle dish soap, and avoiding harsh citric-based cleaners that can dull the enamel’s exterior gloss.

Although you can scrub your pan, it’s best to choose a non-abrasive scrub cloth or scrub brush that won’t degrade your cookware.

The benefit of using enameled cast-iron over traditional cast-iron

Woman removing lid from a blue Dutch oven — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

The benefits of opting for enameled cast-iron over traditional cast-iron, is that you don’t need to season your cookware, as the enamel acts as the protective coating.

This also means that there’s a whole heap of colorful enamels to choose from, with top brands, such as Le Creuset, offering a mountain of choice. I particularly like Le Creuset’s Signature Round Dutch Oven, in Chambray, which is $400 at Le Creuset for the 4.5-quart version.

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Camilla is the Homes Staff Writer and covers everything to do with homes and gardens. She has a wealth of editorial experience, mounting over 30 years, and covers news and features, tests products for reviews and compiles buying guides.

Her work has appeared in business and consumer titles, including Ideal Home, Real Homes, House Beautiful, Homebuilding & Renovation, and Kitchen & Bathroom Business. She’s even appeared on the cover of Your Home, writing about her own house renovation.

Although she’s obsessed with decorating her home, she also enjoys baking and trying out the latest kitchen appliances. But when she’s not inside, you’ll find her pottering about in her yard, tending to her vegetable patch or taking in her prized hydrangeas.

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