Le Creuset Care & Use

Please read these care and use guidelines before using your cookware for the first time.
Each piece from Le Creuset extensive range of high-quality cookware is designed for versatility and ease of use.

 

CAST IRON CARE & USE

Check the Care & Use manual that came with the product for a list of approved heat sources, as they can vary by product. Enameled cast iron should not be used in microwave ovens. If approved for use on a glass-topped stove, always lift the pan when moving it; never slide it, as this may damage the stovetop or the base of the pan.

Medium or low heat will provide the best results for cooking, including frying and searing. Allow the pan to heat gradually and thoroughly for even and efficient cooking results. Once the pan is hot, almost all cooking can be continued on lower settings.

Medium-high heat temperatures should only be used for boiling water for vegetables or pasta, or for reducing the consistency of stocks or sauces. High heats should never be used to preheat a pan before lowering the heat for cooking. Cast iron retains heat so efficiently that overheating will cause food to burn or stick.

Always match the pan’s base size to the stovetop heat zone to maximize efficiency, and to prevent overheating of the pan sides or damage to the handles.

Flames must always be confined to the base area, and must never extend around the sidewalls of the pan. Long handles should be positioned safely where they do not hang over the front of the stove or other heat zones.

Cast iron handles, stainless steel knobs and phenolic knobs will become hot during stovetop and oven use. Always handle the product by the handles, lid and knob. Always use a dry heat-resistant hand protector when handling a hot product during and after cooking.

Always place a hot pan on a wooden board, trivet or Le Creuset silicone mat—never on an unprotected surface.

 

CAST IRON CLEANING

Always cool the product to room temperature before washing.

Do not plunge a hot pan into cold water. While Le Creuset’s enamel is designed to be the most durable on the market, thermal shock may still occur, resulting in cracking or loss of enamel.

If there are food residues, fill the pan with warm water and let soak for 15 to 20 minutes before washing. A brush can be useful for removing small food deposits, or for cleaning between the ribs on grills. Do not use scourers or abrasive cleaners on the cooking surface. Nylon or soft abrasive pads or brushes can be used to remove stubborn residues. To avoid damaging the enamel, do not use metallic pads or harsh abrasive cleaning agents.

All pans with integral cast iron, phenolic handles or stainless steel knobs can be washed in the dishwasher. However, constant dishwashing may lead to some dulling of the enamel finish. This is not harmful and will not impair performance. When using the dishwasher always allow the cycle to finish before opening the door. This will ensure the pans are dried thoroughly.

Metallic-toned knobs are finished with an exclusive coating that is not dishwasher-safe. We recommend washing the knobs by hand to ensure the finish stays beautiful for years to come.

Pans with Black Satin and Matte Black interior can be washed in the dishwasher, but this greatly reduces the development of a patina; as a result, grills and skillets will require oiling for a longer period. Pans with wooden handles are not dishwasher-safe.

Light stains or metal marks caused by metal tools can be removed with Le Creuset cookware cleaner. An occasional cleaning with this product will also retain the new appearance of your pans. It can be purchased on this website or from your local retailer.

Never store pans while they are still damp. Store pans in a dry cupboard or airy space away from steam.

Maintain the tightness of all handles and knobs by checking and retightening them regularly.

Le Creuset enameled cast iron is extremely durable but it may be damaged if accidentally dropped or knocked against a hard surface. Please note that this is not covered by our Lifetime Warranty.

STOCK POT CARE & USE

Do not bang a stockpot down onto a stove’s surface or work surface. Repeated banging may damage the exterior enamel.

For efficient and safe boiling, always use a burner similar in size to the base of the stockpot.

Do not place a stockpot on a heat source without having liquid in the pot. Do not allow a stockpot to boil dry.

Never place a stockpot in the dishwasher. To clean, simply hand-wash the stockpot with hot, soapy water. Rinse well, and dry thoroughly. Do not submerge stockpots in water – the water may become trapped inside the vessel and can lead to rusting.

KETTLE CARE & USE

Do not bang the teakettle down onto a stove’s surface or work surface. Repeated banging may damage the exterior enamel.

Do not place the kettle on the heat source without having water in the kettle. Never leave a teakettle simmering for long periods on any heat source; it may boil dry, which can result in overheating and damage to the base and enamel.

Do not leave water standing in a kettle when it is not in use. A buildup of scale may occur and reduce efficiency.

Before pouring from your teakettle, remove it from the burner and ensure the handle is in the upright position.

Le Creuset proudly uses heat-resistant plastic on our handles and whistles.

Never place in the dishwasher. To clean, simply hand-wash the kettle with hot, soapy water and dry thoroughly. A gentle kettle de-scaler may be used periodically if required.