When it comes to cast iron cookware, one name stands out above the rest- Lodge. Designed by Joseph Lodge over a century ago, Lodge cookware remains in as high demand today, as they were then. Revered for its incredible durability, this cookware set has been passed from generation to generation. It is typical to find young cooks using the same Lodge cookware that their grandmothers used. Joseph Lodge was a pioneer in the cast iron cookware field and today, that same level of excellence prevails with every piece of Lodge cookware.

If you've ever used cast iron cookware, you may have heard the term seasoning. To season your cast iron cookware serves two purposes. The first is that you will prevent rust from forming on the iron, and the second is that by seasoning you will be creating a non-stick surface that is permanent. This is remarkable, because over 100 years ago, Teflon and other non-stick surfaces simply didn't exist, so by seasoning the cast iron cookware, earlier generations enjoyed the ease and flexibility of a non stick surface simply by seasoning their cast iron cookware.

When you purchase new Lodge cookware, you will receive instruction on how to properly season your cookware. Seasoning is a process that you will attend to over time. The more you season, it the better it will become.

You should season your cast iron cookware as soon as you purchase it, and before its first use. Here are some instructions on how to season your new Lodge cookware.

First, you will need oil, your cookware, and an oven. You will also need to preheat your oven to 350' F. First, you will need to wash the cast iron cookware with warm sudsy water (using a mild dishwashing liquid) and by scrubbing it with a stiff brush. This will help prepare the cookware to receive the seasoning.

Next, you will need to rinse and dry the cookware completely. You can use a can of spray oil or melted shortening, such as Crisco, to cover the entire cookware inside and out. Don't forget to cover the handles too.

Now you will place them in the oven, by lowering your oven racks to the lowest setting. Place a sheet of aluminum foil on the bottom rack so that any grease that falls off during the seasoning process won't end up on your oven.

Bake the cookware on the top rack (place the racks on the two lowest racks) upside down for at least an hour. Then turn the oven off and let the cookware remain in the oven until the oven is cool. You can continue to season your cast iron skillet as much as you like.

While some people will be happy with any cookware set, Lodge Cookware helps separate those who make a meal, and those who create a meal.