Should You Polish Cast Iron? Expert Opinion Revealed

💡Polishing or sanding cast iron is a controversial subject with mixed opinions.

🔍Manufacturers now provide cast iron skillets with a textured, dimpled finish to improve seasoning adherence and non-stick properties.

🗣️Opinions differ on whether to sand or polish cast iron, but it is generally not recommended by experts.

🔨If necessary, lightly sand cast iron by hand for minor imperfections or burrs, but avoid using machines.

🧴The textured surface of modern cast iron allows oil to grab onto the dimples, leading to better seasoning polymerization.

Should I sand my cast iron skillet?

—Sanding your cast iron skillet is generally not recommended by experts. The textured finish on modern cast iron enhances seasoning adherence and non-stick properties.

Can I use a grinder or sander to smooth out my cast iron skillet?

—Using a grinder or sander on your cast iron skillet is not advisable. If you need to address minor imperfections, it is recommended to lightly sand them by hand.

Why do manufacturers provide cast iron skillets with a textured finish?

—The textured finish on modern cast iron skillets improves seasoning adherence and non-stick properties. The dimples allow the oil to grab onto the surface, promoting polymerization.

Will sanding or polishing my cast iron skillet improve its non-stick properties?

—Sanding or polishing your cast iron skillet is unlikely to significantly improve its non-stick properties. The textured surface already provides adequate non-stick qualities.

What is the best way to remove minor imperfections on my cast iron skillet?

—If you have minor imperfections or burrs on your cast iron skillet, lightly sanding them by hand is the recommended approach.

00:00In this video, Mike from Mr. Cast Iron discusses whether you should polish or sand your cast iron skillet.

01:30Mike personally does not recommend using a grinder or sander to smooth out cast iron.

03:07The textured finish on modern cast iron skillets enhances seasoning adherence and non-stick properties.

03:49If needed, lightly sand cast iron by hand for minor imperfections or burrs.

03:55The dimples on the surface allow the oil to grab onto the cast iron, promoting seasoning polymerization.