Keeping the wire handle shiny

[b.woody]

I just started using cast iron and I love how nonstick it gets after a good restoration. I am currently working on an old dutch oven and I have a question about the wire bail handle. I want to know if I have to season the wire or if I can leave it as bare silver metal. The silver would look great against the dark iron but I do not want it to rust. Most people season every part of the pot to protect it from moisture. If you leave the handle bare you might need to wipe it with a little oil after each wash.

 

[BubblyCat]

Have you tried leaving a handle unseasoned before?

 

[checkm8]

I just started using cast iron and I love how nonstick it gets after a good restoration. I am currently working on an old dutch oven and I have a question about the wire bail handle. I want to know if I have to season the wire or if I can leave it as bare silver metal. The silver would look great against the dark iron but I do not want it to rust. Most people season every part of the pot to protect it from moisture. If you leave the handle bare you might need to wipe it with a little oil after each wash.

Use a high smoke point oil like grapeseed or Crisco for the best results.

 

[timtamtim078]

You can use fine steel wool to keep that wire handle bright if it starts to dull.

 

[Alan]

How about cleaning the bail with steel wool. And the wipe it with seasoning to rust-proof it.

 

[the plankton]

Make sure the oven is completely dry before you put it away to prevent rust spots.

 

[b.woody]

The fine steel wool did work. I was hesitant to leave it unseasoned. Do you think it is best to keep it unseasoned?