What temperature should be used for best results and performance?
Because of the heat retaining properties of cast iron, Le Creuset products do not require high heats at any time - use medium to low heat settings to maintain ideal cooking temperatures. This will minimise the risk of food sticking in the pan. Heat pan slowly using a medium heat, then reduce to low.
Select the size of your heat source so that it is as close as possible to the base size of your pan. This will prevent energy loss and overheating of the handle. Placing a small pan on a large burner will result in the side walls becoming over-heated and the handles becoming damaged or too hot to handle.

What sort of heat source is best for Le Creuset cast iron?
Le Creuset cast iron is suitable for all heat sources including induction hobs, and is tested and approved by the Good Housekeeping Institute for use on glass-topped stovetops.

Is there any special way to use Le Creuset cast iron?
Cast iron is a very efficient material, retaining heat well.
Use only wooden, plastic or heat resistant silicone or nylon tools, to avoid scratching the enamel.
Use a pot holder or oven glove to lift metal handled pans from the stove top or oven.
Stand hot pans on a Le Creuset trivet, board or cloth, not directly on unprotected countertops.
When using pans on ceramic or halogen stovetops, always lift them (do not slide) to move.
If a pan is banged against a hard surface or is dropped, it may chip or break.

What is the best way to use the non-stick cast iron pans?
The Le Creuset range of non-stick cast iron has been manufactured to provide you with optimum cooking results and satisfaction lasting many years.
Their high efficiency performance also provides suitable heats for searing and sealing meats, poultry and fish on MEDIUM SETTINGS, and provide ideal conditions for slow cooking on very low settings.
The use of MEDIUM SETTINGS will also protect and prolong the life of the non-stick coating.

What sort of handles should I choose?
Le Creuset comes with phenolic or integral cast iron handles and each has their own properties.
Products with phenolic heat resistant handles or knobs can be used in an oven, but no more than 375°F/190°C/Gas Mark 5. They can also be washed in a dishwasher.
Some products have integral metal handles. These can be used in the oven or under a hot grill, but the same maximum temperature given above applies (375°F/190°C/Gas Mark 5). Always use a handle glove, oven mitt or dry cloth for lifting these pans.

If you have a Le Creuset product with a wooden handle, ensure it does not come into direct contact with naked flames, hot ovens or hot plates. Wooden handles are not dishwasher safe.
Over time handles and knobs may loosen. Check them once in a while and tighten as needed.

What is the best way to clean my Le Creuset?
If the correct cooking temperature has been used then cleaning your cookware is that much easier. Hot soapy water can be used but make sure the pan has cooled before washing, and then rinse and dry thoroughly. NEVER fill a hot pot or pan with cold water, or plunge into water for soaking.
You can remove stubborn food residues before washing with a nylon scourer only - do not use metal scourers or abrasive cleaners of any kind. Also available for really stubborn stains is our special 'Pots and Pans' cleaner.
Dry your pan thoroughly after washing - do not leave to drain or put away while still damp.
Pans with metal or phenolic handles may be washed in a dishwasher. Wooden handled products should not be put in a dishwasher.

Who can I contact at Le Creuset for further advice?
We have a helpline where we will be happy to answer your questions before or after you buy a Le Creuset product. Call us free on 0800 37 37 92 Monday to Friday 9am-5pm (UK only), or email us on helpline@lecreuset.co.uk