Maintaining your cast iron and stainless steel cookware is essential for both its performance and longevity. The right cleaning tools and products can make the difference between a pan that lasts for generations and one that succumbs to rust and damage. From stubborn, baked-on food to delicate seasoning preservation, having the proper cleaner for the job is a cornerstone of good kitchen care.
This roundup for 2025 features a curated selection of the best cleaners available, designed to tackle every challenge your cookware presents. Whether you need a heavy-duty chainmail scrubber for your cast iron skillet or a gentle polish for your stainless steel appliances, our list has a solution to keep your kitchen tools in pristine condition.
The Best Stainless Steel and Cast Iron Cleaners for Your Kitchen
- Ationgle 8″x6″ Stainless Steel Cast Iron Cleaner 316L Chainmail Scrubber
- Amagabeli Cast Iron Cleaner 8″x6″ 316L Stainless Steel Chainmail Scrubber
- Herda 316L Cast Iron Scrubber Cleaner, Large Cast Iron Chain Mail Scrubber
- Cast Iron Cleaner Cosmer XL 7×7 inch Premium Stainless Steel Chainmail Scrubber
- Bar Keepers Friend Superior Cookware Cleanser & Polish | 12-Ounces
- Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish Streak-Free Shine – 2 Pack
- Easy Off 14.5 Oz. Oven Cleaner – 1 Each
- Cerama Bryte Glass Cooktop and Stove Top Cleaner Combo Kit
- PUMIE Scouring Stick, Heavy Duty Extra Strong Pumice Cleaning Bar (2 Pack)
- Lodge SCRAPERSP2 Scraper/Scrubber Set
Ationgle 8″x6″ Stainless Steel Cast Iron Cleaner 316L Chainmail Scrubber
The Ationgle chainmail scrubber is uniquely designed for safe and effective cleaning of cast iron pans. Its construction from high-grade 316L stainless steel ensures it resists rust and tarnish, providing optimal longevity for your cleaning tool. This makes it a durable companion for your equally durable cookware.
Using this scrubber is a smart alternative to harsh steel wool, as it helps preserve the tempering of your well-seasoned cast iron. It efficiently removes stuck-on food without damaging the hard-earned seasoning layer, making post-meal cleanup much simpler and safeguarding your investment.
Amagabeli Cast Iron Cleaner 8″x6″ 316L Stainless Steel Chainmail Scrubber
Amagabeli’s scrubber is built with premium 316L stainless steel, guaranteeing a rust-proof and durable cleaning experience. It is designed to be safe and effective, cleaning cast iron pans without scratching their surface. This product is built to last as long as your cast iron cookware itself.
This cleaner acts as a seasoning savior, gently removing rust and stubborn food bits without damaging the pan’s protective layer. For added convenience, it is dishwasher safe. A simple rinse under running water or a cycle in the dishwasher will keep your scrubber spotless and ready for its next use.
Herda 316L Cast Iron Scrubber Cleaner, Large Cast Iron Chain Mail Scrubber
The Herda chainmail scrubber stands out with its large size, which is twice as large as many mushroom-style cleaners. This larger surface area improves cleaning efficiency and saves you valuable time. It is linked with fine 3mm chainmail rings that leave dirt and grime nowhere to hide.
A built-in silicone pad provides support and comfort during scrubbing. The firm yet flexible silicone core can be squeezed to fit different pan surfaces, while the breathable honeycomb structure ensures quick drying. This design also keeps your hands a safe distance from hot metal surfaces.
Cast Iron Cleaner Cosmer XL 7×7 inch Premium Stainless Steel Chainmail Scrubber
The Cosmer set offers exceptional value as a 6-in-1 family pack, making your purchase both easier and more economical. It includes a grill pan scraper, pan scrapers, a silicone hot handle holder, a wall hook, and a kitchen towel. This provides a complete system for easy cleaning, restoration, and cooking.
Handcrafted from premium 316L stainless steel, this scrubber is ideal for all your cast iron cookware. Its multi-purpose nature means it can be used on nearly any non-coated cookware, from cast iron and stainless steel to glassware and baking sheets. For easy cleanup, the scrubber itself is dishwasher safe.
Bar Keepers Friend Superior Cookware Cleanser & Polish
Bar Keepers Friend Cookware Cleanser & Polish is a powerful yet safe solution for stainless steel pots, pans, and bakeware. Its formula acts as a potent degreaser, cutting through tough oil, baked-on food, mineral deposits, and rust stains. It is safe for use on all stainless steel cookware, including premium brands.
This versatile cleaner is also excellent for cleaning stainless steel sinks, porcelain sinks, and steel grills. A key benefit is that Bar Keepers Friend products clean effectively without the use of bleach, which is better for the long-term care and appearance of your stainless steel surfaces.
Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish Streak-Free Shine
Weiman is a trusted and leading brand for stainless steel care. This pH neutral formula is designed to quickly clean, shine, and protect any stainless-steel surface in your kitchen. It works effectively on both traditional and black stainless steel appliances.
The spray is particularly effective at eliminating common eyesores like surface fingerprints, haze, smudges, and grease. It leaves behind a streak-free, brilliant shine without any residue buildup. This two-pack, which includes a microfiber cloth, ensures you have everything you need for a perfect clean.
Easy Off 14.5 Oz. Oven Cleaner
Easy Off is a heavy-duty oven cleaner specially formulated to penetrate and dissolve tough, burned-on grease and food in as little as three minutes. Its powerful action makes it a reliable choice for the most challenging cleaning tasks in your kitchen.
While perfect for ovens and oven doors, this cleaner is also multipurpose. It can be used to clean barbecue grills, broilers, broiler pans, and even stainless-steel surfaces. It is suitable for both occasional deep cleaning sessions and everyday tough spot cleanings on warm or cold surfaces.
Cerama Bryte Glass Cooktop and Stove Top Cleaner Combo Kit
This Cerama Bryte combo kit is a heavy-duty, non-abrasive solution designed for smooth cooktops. It effectively removes grease, grime, and stains from glass, ceramic, induction, radiant, convection, and halogen surfaces without causing scratches, while also maintaining their shine.
The kit includes everything you need for a thorough clean: the cleaner, a cleaning pad, and a razor scraper tool for tackling burnt-on food. It is a household essential recommended for use on most major appliance brands, making it a versatile and reliable choice for stovetop maintenance.
PUMIE Scouring Stick, Heavy Duty Extra Strong Pumice Cleaning Bar
The PUMIE Scouring Stick is a heavy-duty cleaning bar made from extra-strong pumice stone. This two-pack provides a powerful solution for tasks where ordinary cleaners are not effective. It is specifically designed for removing tough toilet rings but has many kitchen applications.
Its gentle yet abrasive pumice material is perfect for various surfaces, including ceramic tile, porcelain, and iron. In the kitchen, it can be used on grill grates and barbecue tools to remove rust and stubborn, baked-on residue, making it a versatile tool for household and outdoor cleaning.
Lodge SCRAPERSP2 Scraper/Scrubber Set
From Lodge, a renowned name in cast iron cookware, comes this practical scraper and scrubber set. The set is designed specifically for the care and maintenance of cast iron, ensuring you have the right tools to keep your skillets and pans in optimal condition.
The scraper is ideal for removing large, stuck-on food particles, while the scrubber helps with more detailed cleaning without damaging the seasoning. As it comes from the manufacturer of the cookware itself, you can be confident it is a safe and effective choice for preserving the life and performance of your Lodge products.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Stainless Steel and Cast Iron Cleaners for 2025
Choosing the right cleaner for your stainless steel appliances or cast iron cookware can feel confusing. I get it. The market is flooded with options, and using the wrong product can lead to scratches, damage, or just a bad clean. After testing many products, I have found that focusing on a few key factors makes the decision much easier.
First, consider the surface material. This is the most important step. For stainless steel, you generally want a product that cleans and polishes in one step. Many sprays leave a light, protective coating that resists fingerprints, which is a huge win for busy kitchens. Look for non-abrasive formulas that are safe for all stainless steel finishes. For cast iron, the rules are completely different. Your goal is to remove food residue without stripping the precious seasoning—the polymerized oil layer that creates its non-stick surface. Harsh soaps and abrasives are a no-go. I look for gentle, natural-based cleaners or simply use coarse salt and a soft brush for scrubbing.
Next, think about the formula and its ingredients. I prefer plant-based, non-toxic cleaners, especially for items that come into contact with my food. These are tough on grease but gentle on surfaces and your hands. For stainless steel, a cream or spray is typically most effective. For cast iron, a paste or even a liquid soap that is specifically labeled as “cast iron safe” is your best bet. Always avoid chlorine bleach and ammonia on stainless steel, as they can cause permanent, cloudy discoloration.
Ease of use is another big factor for me. I do not want a cleaning routine that takes all day. A good stainless steel cleaner should spray on, wipe off, and leave a streak-free shine with minimal effort. For cast iron, the process is more involved because drying and re-oiling are crucial steps to prevent rust. However, the cleaner itself should make the initial scrubbing process quick and effective. I appreciate products that come with their own application cloths or scrubbers designed for the specific surface.
Finally, value for money matters. A cheap cleaner that you have to use a lot of is not actually a good deal. Conversely, an expensive boutique brand might not perform any better than a trusted mid-range option. I look for a product that balances cost with performance and bottle size. A concentrated formula can also last much longer, providing better long-term value. When selecting from the list of the 10 best stainless steel and cast iron cleaners for 2025, I weigh all these factors to find the perfect match for my kitchen’s needs.
FAQ
Can I use the same cleaner on both my stainless steel fridge and my cast iron skillet?
I would not recommend it. These surfaces have very different needs. A cleaner designed for stainless steel often contains chemicals or polishing agents that can strip the delicate seasoning from your cast iron cookware. Conversely, a gentle cast iron cleaner likely will not have the strength to cut through the grease and grime on a stainless steel appliance. It is best to use specialized products for each to keep them in top condition.
Is it safe to use abrasive scrubbers like steel wool on these surfaces?
You have to be very careful. For stainless steel, using steel wool or harsh scouring pads can create tiny scratches in the grain of the metal, ruining its uniform appearance. I always use a soft cloth or a non-scratch scrubby sponge. For cast iron, after soaking or boiling water in it to loosen debris, a chainmail scrubber is my go-to. It is abrasive enough to remove stuck-on food but is specifically designed not to damage the seasoned surface. Avoid steel wool on cast iron as it can remove seasoning and promote rust.
Why is my stainless steel streaky after I clean it?
Streaks are a common frustration. They usually happen for one of two reasons. First, you might be using too much product. A little spray goes a long way. Second, and more importantly, you need to wipe with the grain of the stainless steel. Look closely at your appliance; you will see a faint brushed pattern. Wiping in the direction of that grain with a clean, dry microfiber cloth will almost always eliminate streaks. Using a dedicated polish after cleaning can also help achieve a perfect, streak-free shine.
How often should I re-season my cast iron pan?
There is no set schedule. I re-season my cast iron pan when the surface starts to look dull, patchy, or feels rough to the touch. If food starts sticking more than usual, that is another good indicator. A well-maintained pan might only need a full re-seasoning once or twice a year with regular use. However, after each cleaning and drying, I always do a “mini-season” by applying a very thin layer of oil and heating it on the stove for a few minutes. This maintains the protective layer and keeps it performing well.
What is the biggest mistake people make when cleaning cast iron?
From my experience, the single biggest mistake is letting it sit in water or putting it in the dishwasher. This will instantly cause rust and destroy your seasoning. Always hand-wash your cast iron promptly after use with hot water and a stiff brush or scrubber. Then, dry it thoroughly—I place it on a warm stovetop burner for a minute to evaporate any residual moisture—before applying a thin coat of oil for storage. Proper drying is the key to a rust-free pan.