Why Do My Cast Iron Pans Smell?

Kelli Foster
Kelli FosterSenior Contributing Food Editor
Kelli is a Senior Contributing Food Editor for Kitchn. She's a graduate of the French Culinary Institute and author of the cookbooks, Plant-Based Buddha Bowls, The Probiotic Kitchen, Buddha Bowls, and Everyday Freekeh Meals. She lives in New Jersey.
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published Dec 26, 2014
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Q: I have several cast iron pans, and this problem exists with all of them. I do everything right, with the possible exception of occasionally using liquid dish soap. When I apply that thin coat of oil recommended before putting it away, the pans smell.

There is one drawer in which I keep all the cast iron. I’ve experimented putting only one pan in but a couple days later when I open the drawer, there’s the smell. It’s not the drawer. I’ve proved that to myself also. Any suggestions?

Sent by Terry

Editor: Readers, has this ever happened to you? What do you think about this? Also, Terry, check out the comments and suggestions in this post:

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