Living and Home Cast Iron Hot Pot - 2 Compartment, 31cm

Yes, it is highly recommended to season your cast iron hot pot before its first use to create a natural non-stick surface and protect against rust.

After use, wash by hand with hot water and a stiff brush. Avoid using harsh soaps for regular cleaning as they can strip the seasoning. Dry immediately and thoroughly.

While cast iron is durable, metal utensils can scratch off the seasoning. It's generally recommended to use wooden, silicone, or heat-resistant plastic utensils to preserve your seasoning.

No, cast iron hot pots are not dishwasher safe. The harsh detergents and prolonged moisture in a dishwasher will strip the seasoning and cause rust.

As it is made of cast iron, it will be significantly heavier than pots made from other materials. This weight contributes to its excellent heat retention. > Info needed: [Approximate weight for 31cm size]

The product description specifies compatibility with various stovetops (induction, gas). While many cast iron pieces are oven-safe, without explicit mention, it's best to primarily use it for its intended stovetop hot pot purpose to avoid potential issues.

High smoke point oils like flaxseed, grapeseed, or vegetable oil are ideal for seasoning cast iron. Avoid olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and can become sticky.

Ensure your seasoning layer is very thin and baked/heated properly. Multiple thin layers are better than one thick one. Also, make sure the hot pot is preheated sufficiently before adding food; cast iron needs a bit more time to reach a consistent cooking temperature.

Your hot pot may need re-seasoning. Ensure it's properly seasoned before use. Also, preheat the pot sufficiently before adding food and oil.

Rust occurs from moisture. Scrub off the rust with steel wool or a stiff brush, wash thoroughly, and immediately dry the pot completely. Then, apply a thin layer of oil and re-season. Ensure the pot is always dried immediately after washing.

Ensure your stovetop burner matches the size of the hot pot's base. For gas stoves, ensure the flame doesn't extend beyond the pot's base. For induction, confirm the burner is fully covering the pot's base. Cast iron takes time to heat evenly; allow adequate preheating.

This can happen if food residue is not completely cleaned or if oil goes rancid. Clean the pot thoroughly, boil water in it briefly (without food), empty, then re-season. Always store in a dry, ventilated area.