In March of 2019, I mentioned that a Reader had passed along a magical cleaning solution that would make your Le Creuset pots and pans sparkle like new. I included the formula, which was a bleach + vinegar combination, in the post but when I thought it deserved its own space, I created this post. BUT THEN: Upon posting the entry, I immediately received a comment and a link to an article that gave me pause. What I learned from that article is that combing bleach and vinegar “produces chlorine gas, which even at low levels, can cause coughing, breathing problems, and burning, watery eyes.” To be sure, I called poison control to confer. They, too, despite my pleading — Really? I can’t use a teensy tiny bit? Even if I’ve never experienced the adverse side effects? Is a small amount of chlorine gas so terrible? — agreed that bleach and vinegar should not be mixed. “Ma’am,” they told me. “Don’t do it.” Ugh. OK. Fine.
How to Clean Your Le Creuset Pots and Pans (Safely)
There are several non-toxic methods for cleaning your Le Creuset cookware. I have had success with numbers 1 and 2 below. The remaining suggestions come from readers who have had success with these methods. Friends, how do you clean your enameled cast iron cookware? I’d love to know. Here’s what is NOT RECOMMENDED: Combining bleach and vinegar.
