How to fix sticky or flaking cast iron seasoning

Step by step

1. 1

   Step 1: Work out the problem

   Sticky or tacky means too much oil was left on and it didn't fully harden. Black flakes are usually carbon from burnt food or old thick seasoning lifting, not rust.

2. 2

   Step 2: Fixing sticky patches

   Put the pan upside down in the oven at 230 to 250 degrees for an hour. The extra heat finishes curing the oil. Let it cool in the oven.

3. 3

   Step 3: Fixing flaking

   Scrub the flaky area with coarse salt and a little oil, or with steel wool, until it feels smooth. Rinse and dry on the stove.

4. 4

   Step 4: Re season the spot

   Wipe on the thinnest coat of oil you can, buff it nearly dry, and bake as above. Two or three rounds and it will blend in.

5. 5

   Step 5: Stop it happening again

   Always wipe oil off until the pan looks almost dry, and heat it after washing. Cook something fatty in it a few times to build the surface.