Stained Porcelain Cast Iron Dutch Oven

Me: Is there an easy way to take the stains out of my porcelain covered cast iron Dutch oven?

ChatGPT: Oh yes… and since you cook a lot of hearty dishes (hello blackened chicken and smoker recipes 😄), I’m guessing this Dutch oven has seen some action.

Good news: porcelain-coated cast iron is tough — and most stains are cosmetic, not damage.

Here are the easy, safe methods, starting with the gentlest:

🥇 Method 1: Baking Soda Paste (Best Everyday Fix)

Great for: Brown stains, light scorch marks

Sprinkle baking soda over the stained area.

Add just enough water to make a thick paste.

Let sit 30–60 minutes (or overnight for heavy stains).

Scrub gently with a non-scratch sponge.

Rinse and dry.

👉 For tougher stains, fill the pot with water + 2 tbsp baking soda and simmer 10–15 minutes, then cool and scrub.

🥈 Method 2: Hydrogen Peroxide + Baking Soda (Deep Whitening)

Great for: Yellowing, dark interior staining

Sprinkle baking soda inside the pot.

Pour in enough 3% hydrogen peroxide to cover the stained area.

Let sit several hours or overnight.

Rinse and wash normally.

This method works surprisingly well for restoring that light interior color.

🥉 Method 3: Bar Keepers Friend (Very Effective)

Great for: Stubborn brown/black marks

Make a paste with BKF and a little water.

Rub gently with a soft sponge.

Rinse thoroughly.

⚠️ Don’t scrub aggressively — porcelain can dull if you go too hard.

🚫 What NOT to Use

Steel wool

Metal scrubbers

Bleach (can dull enamel over time)

Oven cleaner

🔥 If It’s Really Burned On

Fill with water, add:

2 tbsp baking soda

1 tbsp dish soap

Bring to a gentle boil for 10–15 minutes.

Let cool slightly, then scrape with a wooden spoon.

You’d be amazed what lifts off.

Important Note

If the stain:

Is smooth to the touch

Doesn’t affect cooking

Doesn’t feel rough or chipped

…it’s just cosmetic and completely safe.