How to Use Cast & Clara Bell Cast Iron Conditioning Balm (or other kinds of oils)

A well seasoned cast iron skillet should feel smooth, look rich and dark, and cook effortlessly. That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because the iron is protected, conditioned, and maintained properly after every use.

Our Cast & Clara Bell Cast Iron Conditioning Balm was developed specifically to make that process simple and effective. Made with beef tallow, beeswax, and avocado oil, it is designed to protect, nourish, and build seasoning in between cooks.

Below is a complete guide on how to use it properly and how to store and handle it safely.

1. How to Use CACB Balm

From Cleaning to Final Wipe Down

Proper conditioning begins the moment you finish cooking.

Step 1: Clean Immediately After Use

Once the skillet has cooled slightly but is still warm, wipe out excess food and grease with a paper towel or cloth. If food is stuck on, rinse with hot water and use a non metal scraper or brush.

If needed, use a small amount of mild dish soap.  Cast iron is durable (albeit delicate), and a gentle wash will not harm it. The key is to avoid soaking the pan and never leave it sitting in water.  If you do, you can get clean off the surface rust, but it isn't ideal. 

Dry the skillet thoroughly

Step 2: Heat to Remove Moisture

Place the skillet on the stovetop over low heat for a few minutes to ensure all moisture has evaporated. You should see the surface fully dry, somewhat dull, and slightly warm to the touch.

This gentle heat opens the pores of the iron and prepares it to accept conditioning.

Turn the heat off.

Step 3: Apply a Small Amount of Balm

Using a clean cloth or paper towel, apply a very small amount of Cast & Clara Bell Conditioning Balm to the entire surface of the skillet inside, outside, bottom, and handle.

A little goes a long way. You do not need a thick layer. In fact, too much product can lead to buildup.

The balm will melt instantly on the warm iron. Spread it evenly across all surfaces.

Step 4: Buff It In

After applying, take a clean section of cloth and buff the pan thoroughly.  The goal is to remove all visible residue.

When done properly, the skillet should look slightly enriched and darker, but not wet, greasy, or sticky. If it looks shiny or oily, continue buffing.

The iron should feel dry to the touch. You are not coating the pan with grease you are conditioning it and leaving behind only a micro thin protective layer.

Step 5: Optional Light Heat Set

For deeper conditioning, especially on older or drier pieces, you may place the skillet back on low heat for 5 to 10 minutes after buffing. This helps the balm polymerize slightly and bond to the existing seasoning.

Allow the pan to cool naturally and store in a dry place.  Used consistently after cooking, this routine builds a durable, rich seasoning layer over time. Your skillet will become more and more protected from harsher cooking, like boiling or acidic foods. 

2. Ingredients, Cautions, and Proper Storage

Our Conditioning Balm was formulated intentionally for performance and simplicity.

Ingredients

Cast & Clara Bell Conditioning Balm contains:  Beef Tallow, Beeswax, and Avo Oil.  Each ingredient serves a purpose.

Beef tallow has been used for centuries to season cast iron. It bonds well to iron and creates a durable cooking surface.

Beeswax provides structure and stability. It helps the balm remain solid at room temperature and contributes to a protective barrier on the iron.

Avocado oil is included for its high smoke point and smooth application properties. It helps the balm spread evenly and penetrate micro pores in the metal.

There are no artificial additives, dyes, fragrances, or preservatives.

Important Caution: This Is Not Food

Although the balm is made from natural ingredients, it is not intended for consumption.

It is a conditioning product for cookware. Do not eat it. Do not use it as a cooking fat. Do not apply it to food.  Keep out of reach of children and pets.

If accidentally ingested in small amounts, the ingredients are food based, but it is not formulated or labeled for consumption. When in doubt, contact a medical professional.

Storage Instructions

Store your balm in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Because it contains natural fats and wax, it may soften in warm temperatures and firm up in cooler conditions. This is completely normal and does not affect performance.

If the balm becomes soft during summer months, simply allow it to cool before using. If it becomes firm in winter, warming the pan slightly before application will allow it to melt and spread easily.

Always close the lid tightly after use to prevent contamination and exposure to dust.

Avoid introducing water into the container. Use a dry cloth or utensil when removing balm to maintain product integrity.

When stored properly, the balm maintains its consistency and effectiveness for extended periods.

Final Thoughts

Cast iron care does not need to be complicated.  The key is consistency and restraint. Clean properly. Dry completely. Apply a very small amount. Buff thoroughly. Leave no residue.  Over time, this routine builds depth of layering, and enhances cooking performance.

Cast & Clara Bell Conditioning Balm was designed to make that process straightforward and reliable.

If you have any questions about how to use it or which skillet it works best on, just reach out to us at restore@castandclarabell.com.

Your iron will thank you.