Best Oil for Seasoning Cast Iron: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Oil

Sharing is caring!

Last Updated on February 8, 2024

Cast iron cookware has been a staple in kitchens for centuries. Its durability and heat retention make it a favorite for cooking everything from stovetop meals to oven-baked dishes. But before you can start cooking with your cast iron skillet or Dutch oven, you need to season it properly. And one crucial step in seasoning cast iron is choosing the right oil.

When it comes to selecting the best oil for seasoning cast iron, there are a few things to consider. First, you want to choose an oil with a high smoke point, which means it can withstand high temperatures without burning or smoking. This is important because seasoning cast iron requires heating the oil to a high temperature in the oven.

Another factor to consider is the oil’s ability to polymerize, which is the process of forming a hard, non-stick surface on the cast iron. Some oils are better at polymerizing than others, which can affect the quality of the seasoning.

Lastly, you want to choose an oil that is readily available and affordable. While there are some specialty oils marketed specifically for cast iron seasoning, you don’t need to break the bank to get a good result.

With these factors in mind, we researched and tested several oils to determine the best oil for seasoning cast iron. In this article, we’ll share our findings and help you choose the right oil to get the most out of your cast iron cookware.

Best Oils for Seasoning Cast Iron

If you’re a cast iron enthusiast, you know that seasoning your skillet is an important step in its care. Seasoning creates a non-stick surface and protects the skillet from rust and corrosion. But with so many oils to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to use. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best oils for seasoning cast iron. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a cast iron newbie, you’re sure to find an oil that works for you.

Crisbee Stik® Cast Iron and Carbon Steel Seasoning

If you’re looking for a reliable and effective cast iron seasoning oil, the Crisbee Stik is a great option.

Pros

• The Crisbee Stik is made with a blend of grape seed oil and beeswax, making it a natural and safe option for seasoning your cast iron cookware.
• It is very easy to apply, and a little goes a long way, making it a very economical choice.
• The Crisbee Stik is highly rated by many cast iron experts and enthusiasts, who swear by it for keeping their cast iron cookware in top condition.

Cons

• The Crisbee Stik has a strong garlic scent, which may not be appealing to some users.
• The wax-like texture of the Crisbee Stik may take some getting used to, and may not be as easy to work with as liquid oils.
• Some users have reported that the Crisbee Stik can leave a sticky residue on their cookware if not applied properly.

If you’re looking for a cast iron seasoning oil that is easy to apply, economical, and highly effective, the Crisbee Stik is definitely worth considering. Made with natural ingredients and trusted by cast iron experts, it can help you maintain a cleaner, non-stick skillet and protect your cast iron cookware for years to come.

When using the Crisbee Stik, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and use a very thin layer of the oil to avoid any sticky residue. Some users have found that the garlic scent of the oil can be overpowering, so it may not be the best choice if you prefer a more neutral scent.

Overall, the Crisbee Stik is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and effective cast iron seasoning oil. With its natural ingredients, easy application, and great results, it’s definitely worth trying out for yourself.

Lodge Seasoning Spray

If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to keep your cast iron cookware in top condition, the Lodge Seasoning Spray is worth considering.

Pros

• Non-aerosol spray makes it easy to apply a thin, even layer of oil to your cookware
• Helps protect and enhance the finish of your cast iron
• Adjustable spray settings allow you to control the amount of oil you apply

Cons

• Some users may prefer a different type of oil for seasoning their cast iron
• May not be suitable for those with allergies to canola oil
• Some users may find the spray nozzle difficult to use

This 100% pure canola oil spray is made in the USA and comes in an 8-fluid ounce bottle. It’s designed to help replenish the seasoning on your cast iron cookware and prepare it for your next use.

To use, simply clean your cookware and dry it thoroughly. Then, apply a thin layer of the seasoning spray to the surface of your cookware. The more you use your cast iron, the better it gets, and this seasoning spray simplifies the application of the seasoning oil.

Overall, the Lodge Seasoning Spray is a convenient and effective way to keep your cast iron cookware in top condition. If you’re looking for an easy way to protect and enhance your cast iron, this product is definitely worth considering.

CARON & DOUCET – Cast Iron Seasoning & Cleaning Oil | 100% Plant-Based & Food Grade! | Best for Seasoning, Restoring, Curing and Care (8oz) 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a premium cast iron seasoning oil, CARON & DOUCET Cast Iron Seasoning & Cleaning Oil is an excellent choice. This food-grade, solvent-less, refined coconut oil is designed to season and condition cast iron while protecting cookware from moisture that leads to damage and rust. It makes cleaning cast iron easier by creating a seasoning that is non-stick and prevents food from drying on. The oil is enhanced with a proprietary blend of pure essential oils that help to naturally eliminate food odors. It will leave your cast iron skillet or cookware looking and smelling clean, yet neutral. The very light scent will not transfer onto food.

Pros

• Made with food-grade, solvent-less, refined coconut oil that is safe for food contact and cast iron surfaces.
• Designed to season and condition cast iron while protecting cookware from moisture that leads to damage and rust.
• Enhanced with a proprietary blend of pure essential oils that help to naturally eliminate food odors.

Cons

• The bottle is small, so you may need to purchase more than one if you use it frequently.
• It is a bit pricey compared to other cast iron seasoning oils.
• Some people may not like the light scent that the oil leaves on their cookware.

CARON & DOUCET Cast Iron Seasoning & Cleaning Oil is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a premium cast iron seasoning oil. It is made with high-quality ingredients that are safe for food contact and cast iron surfaces. The oil is designed to season and condition cast iron while protecting cookware from moisture that leads to damage and rust. It also makes cleaning cast iron easier by creating a non-stick seasoning that prevents food from drying on. The oil is enhanced with a proprietary blend of pure essential oils that help to naturally eliminate food odors, leaving your cookware looking and smelling clean.

If you’re looking for a cast iron seasoning oil that is easy to use and provides excellent results, CARON & DOUCET Cast Iron Seasoning & Cleaning Oil is a great choice. It is backed by the CARON family guarantee, so you can be confident that you are getting a high-quality product that will meet your needs.

CARON & DOUCET – Cast Iron Cleaning & Conditioning Set: Seasoning Oil & Cleaning Soap | 100% Plant-Based & Best for Cleaning Care, Washing, Restoring & Seasoning Cast Iron Skillets, Pans & Grills! 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)

If you’re looking for a natural and effective way to clean, season, and maintain your cast iron cookware, the CARON & DOUCET Cast Iron Cleaning & Conditioning Set is a great choice.

Pros

• The Cast Iron Soap is gentle on your hands and cast iron seasoning, thanks to its natural, plant-based formulation that’s free of sulfates, phosphates, parabens, and petrochemicals.
• The Seasoning Oil is made with food-grade, solvent-less, refined coconut oil that’s safe for food contact and cast iron surfaces. Unlike their competitors, CARON & DOUCET guarantees that their oil will not go rancid.
• The proprietary blend of pure essential oils in the set helps to naturally eliminate food odors, making your cast iron cookware easier to clean and leaving food tasting better.

Cons

• The set may not be effective for removing heavy rust or baked-on food residue.
• Some users may find the scent of the coconut oil to be overpowering.
• The price point may be higher than other cast iron cleaning and conditioning products on the market.

CARON & DOUCET’s Cast Iron Cleaning & Conditioning Set is a great choice for anyone looking for a natural and effective way to clean, season, and maintain their cast iron cookware. The Cast Iron Soap is gentle on your hands and cast iron seasoning, and the Seasoning Oil is made with food-grade, solvent-less, refined coconut oil that’s safe for food contact and cast iron surfaces. The set also includes a proprietary blend of pure essential oils that help to naturally eliminate food odors, making your kitchenware easier to clean and leaving food tasting better.

The Cast Iron Soap is formulated with 100% natural plant-based oils, making it gentle on your hands and cast iron seasoning. It’s free of sulfates, phosphates, parabens, and petrochemicals, which are commonly found in detergent-based soaps. The soap is also effective at removing dirt, grease, and grime from your cast iron cookware, leaving it clean and ready for seasoning.

The Seasoning Oil is made with food-grade, solvent-less, refined coconut oil that’s safe for food contact and cast iron surfaces. This premium product is guaranteed not to go rancid, unlike some of their competitors. The oil is perfect for seasoning your cast iron cookware, helping to build and maintain the natural seasoning that makes your food taste great.

The proprietary blend of pure essential oils in the set helps to naturally eliminate food odors, making your cast iron cookware easier to clean and leaving food tasting better. The essential oils are also effective at removing bacteria and other harmful microorganisms, making your kitchenware safer and more hygienic.

In summary, if you’re looking for a natural and effective way to clean, season, and maintain your cast iron cookware, the CARON & DOUCET Cast Iron Cleaning & Conditioning Set is a great choice. The set is gentle on your hands and cast iron seasoning, and the pure essential oils help to naturally eliminate food odors, making your kitchenware easier to clean and leaving food tasting better.

Blackstone Griddle Conditioner Kit

If you want to maintain the stick-resistant, easy-release finish on your Blackstone griddle cooktop, the Blackstone Griddle Conditioner Kit is your go-to. This two-in-one grill seasoning oil offers results you can trust, whether you’re getting your griddle ready for use or maintaining your current seasoning to prevent sticking and rust.

Pros

• TLC for your griddle cooktop: This griddle seasoning and cast iron conditioner is all you need to build a slick, easy-release surface that’s protected from rust and easy to work with.
• 2 in 1 formula (conditions & protects): The cast iron seasoning formula creates a nonstick seasoning layer that makes cooking and cleanup of your cooktop easy while also protecting it from rust, moisture and other elements.
• Not just for griddles: Season or re-season your cast iron pans, carbon steel pots, skillets, dutch ovens, woks, grill grates and so much more. This all-natural, chemical-free griddle seasoning is safe for all metal cookware and cooking surfaces.

Cons

• Requires multiple applications: You need to repeat the process 3-5 times (minimum 3 times) to achieve the perfect surface ready to griddle.
• May not be suitable for all diets: Although this seasoning oil is plant-based, it contains palm oil and beeswax which may not be suitable for some vegans and vegetarians.
• Bottle design: The bottle design makes it difficult to pour the oil without making a mess.

The Blackstone Griddle Conditioner Kit is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to maintain the quality of their griddle cooktop. It is easy to use and does not contain harsh chemicals, making it a safe option. The 2 in 1 formula ensures that your cooktop is well-seasoned and protected from rust, moisture, and other elements.

To use, wipe down the cooking surface with a damp towel, fire up the burners and heat your griddle for 10-15 minutes. Scoop Blackstone griddle oil on top and apply to the surface using a pair of tongs and a wad of paper towels. Spread the seasoning evenly across the entire cooking surface evenly – even the edges and sides. Let the seasoning burn (smoke) off and repeat the process 3-5 times (minimum 3 times). Applying a thin layer after each use will help maintain the seasoning.

Overall, the Blackstone Griddle Conditioner Kit is a great investment for anyone who wants to keep their griddle cooktop in top-notch condition. It is easy to use, safe, and versatile, making it a must-have for anyone who loves to cook on their griddle.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best oil for seasoning cast iron, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Smoke Point

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an oil for seasoning cast iron is its smoke point. The smoke point refers to the temperature at which an oil starts to smoke and break down, which can lead to a burnt or bitter taste in your food. Look for oils with a high smoke point, such as canola oil, grapeseed oil, or avocado oil, to achieve the best results.

Flavor

While the smoke point is important, you also want to consider the flavor of the oil you choose. Some oils, such as olive oil, have a distinct flavor that can enhance the taste of your food. Others, such as vegetable oil, have a more neutral flavor that won’t overpower your dish. Consider the flavor you want to achieve and choose an oil accordingly.

Price

The price of the oil you choose is also an important factor to consider. While some oils, such as extra-virgin olive oil, can be quite expensive, others, such as vegetable oil, are more affordable. Consider your budget and choose an oil that fits within your price range.

Availability

Finally, consider the availability of the oil you choose. Some oils may be more difficult to find in your local grocery store, while others may be readily available. Consider the convenience of purchasing the oil and choose one that is easy to find.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best oil for seasoning your cast iron and achieve delicious, flavorful results every time.