Stay-cool cast iron handles securely attach to the pans with heavy-duty rivets for confidence in construction and a lifetime of use. Though cast iron also excels in maintaining even heating, it can take time to rise to temperature and since iron itself is so brittle, more of the material must be used to make it durable, making traditional cast iron pans larger and heavier. “Seasoning” refers to the process of coating the base of the pan with a thin layer of oil that imparts a flavorful taste to your foods while also protecting foods from sticking. There are plenty of methods to seasoning your pan, but if this is your first time seasoning the pan, we recommend using very hot water and dish soap to first scrub the pan, then wipe dry and place it on the burner at low heat to finish drying. Add some oil to the pan and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Then, let the pan cool and wipe with paper towels and your pan is ready for use! For future maintenance, simply rinse the pan with water after use and scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush or sponge if necessary (No need for soap!). Season with vegetable oil periodically to maintain its smooth cooking surface and nonstick properties.