One of the most common questions we get asked when selling Petromax cast iron products is how to care for them and make sure they last a lifetime without going rusty. 
Here we have some useful top tips and Petromax cleaning products that will keep your cast iron items looking and working like you've only just started using them.
The Petromax Care and Seasoning Conditioner is made of natural ingredients and protects the pre-treated surface (seasoned finish) of Petromax Dutch Ovens and any other cast iron cookware. It suits ideally for the seasoning of non pre-treated Dutch oven's surfaces. The food safe conditioner is most effective when it is applied after every cooking procedure. It will maintain the pre-seasoned surface of your Petromax Dutch Oven. The conditioner also protects from rust. Available on our website for only £13.99.
When you buy your Petromax cast iron item there is no need to treat or condition it before use, they are already pre seasoned and come ready to use. The surface is patinated in the final stage of production (seasoned finish). After unpacking just rinse your cookware with clear water and keep in mind not to cook any acidic foods the first few times.
Cast iron products can be used easily on all types of home stoves or in the oven, however, please keep in mind to carefully lift your Dutch Oven for relocation, for instance on the ceramic hob. That way you preserve the surface.The distinctive patina on your pots and pans not only provides for rust protection, but also for a natural non-stick coating. The correct care is a fundamental requirement for an optimal cooking experience. The more you use your cast iron the stronger your patina becomes.
If for any reason your Cast iron has become rusty completely remove the rust with a wire brush, wash your cast iron and dry it thoroughly. Then grease the inside and outside with the Petromax Care Conditioner. Bake your cast iron either over the fire, on the grill or at home in the oven (180 °C, approx. 2 hours). Caution: Provide for adequate ventilation indoors as smoke will develop! Afterwards, let your Dutch Oven cool down slowly.
The best way to protect your cast iron for a long time is constant use. Due to frequent roasting, grilling, baking and cooking the patina strengthens over time. The more often you use your cast iron, the better the non-stick properties of the surface become and the less oil you need for roasting, so cook away with your hearts content!
Make sure you simply dry your cast oven thoroughly after every use and use the conditioner ideally when the item is still warm.
Be sure to only hand wash your Cast iron item as dishwashing detergent will destroy the fat constituents and destroy your protective layer. Make sure only to use warm water and no washing liquid and a soft clean sponge.
A lot of the Petromax ovens are used to heat food for lengths of time, therefore you must avoid immediate contact with cold water, the sudden temperature difference would lead to stress cracks.
When your oven is not being used make sure it is stored in a dry place, flash rust will not stand a chance and your Dutch Oven will not let you down when next used.
We really do believe that if you care and store your Dutch Oven correctly, it will stay with you for a lifetime.
