Where is Le Creuset made?
While Le Creuset enamelled cast iron is manufactured at our original foundry in France, we do produce different ranges in other parts of the world. All the facilities, regardless of location, are overseen by Le Creuset and conform to our high standards.
Is my Le Creuset cast iron compatible with induction hobs?
Yes, all our cookware (except our stoneware range which should not be used on the hob top) is suitable for use on an induction hob.
Just remember to keep to a low to medium heat, for durability and delicious results!
Food is sticking to my cast iron casserole. What can I do?
It’s important not to overheat your Le Creuset Cast Iron Casserole – this can cause food to stick. Always cook on a low to medium heat, whatever heat source you’re using. Make sure you build heat gradually too.
I’ve dropped my cast iron. Is it covered by the Lifetime Guarantee?
Unfortunately not. While our cast iron is extremely durable for all sorts of cooking tasks, the enamel coating is made from glass. This means it can crack or chip if it’s dropped or knocked.
This type of damage isn’t covered by our Lifetime Guarantee and we can’t accept dropped items for repair.
The handle on my cast iron saucepan has come loose. What can I do?
First up, try tightening the handle by gently turning the silver hanging hook (at the end of the handle) clockwise. If you’re struggling to tighten the handle, unscrew it to detach it from the pan, then reassemble it. Just turn the silver hanging hook anti-clockwise to loosen it.
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There’s rust on the rim of my cast iron cookware. Is this normal?
On all cast iron products small areas of rust can sometimes occur around the rim. If you spot rust, it could be that your cast iron piece wasn’t thoroughly dried after washing, has been sitting in a damp area like a draining board or the dishwasher, or possibly the grey enamel base coat may have chipped.
To remove rust, clean the area with a nylon sponge and washing up liquid, then thoroughly dry the pan. Once it’s dry, rub a small amount of sunflower or vegetable oil into the affected area to create a seal and prevent any rust from reappearing.
How can I get the best out of my Le Creuset grill or grillit®?
Firstly, it’s important to know how to heat up your grill properly. Use a medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, without any oil or other fat. It’s better to oil and season your food rather than the grill itself. So, once the grill has built up enough heat, add your oiled and seasoned food and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes. When the food is cooked on one side, it will release easily. Then you can go ahead and turn it to cook the other side.
Second up, it’s worth knowing that our grills and grillits®often become even more effective with age and use. That’s because, over time, the satin black enamel interior can develop a natural non-stick layer or ‘patina’. This is the result of the ‘baking in’ of oils and fats from your food. So don’t be alarmed if you notice this brownish black patina. And don’t be surprised if over time your grill releases foods even more effortlessly. You may also find there’s less and less need to add oil or add fat to your food, making your grill perfect for healthy low or no fat cooking.
Lastly, remember to never pre-grease or ‘burn in’ your grill – it can damage your piece and its performance.
All our cast iron products are fully sealed with two coats of premium enamel and don’t need any ‘seasoning’.
How should I look after my Le Creuset pieces?
To keep your favourites in tip top condition, take a look at the guidance on our
Care & Use page.
Can cast iron pieces be cleaned in the dishwasher?
All our cast iron pieces with an integrated cast iron or phenolic knob or handle are dishwasher-safe. However, products with a wooden handle are not dishwasher-safe and should be washed by hand.
But to keep the enamel shining bright use after use, we recommend taking a moment to clean your cast iron by hand with a dish brush or cleaning sponge. Remember to dry it thoroughly too.
How heat-resistant are Le Creuset’s cast iron products?
All cast iron products with a stainless steel knob, metallic knob or cast iron handles can be used in a conventional oven up to 260°C. All our cast iron pieces with a classic black phenolic knob can be used in the oven up to 190°C, and all pieces with a signature black phenolic knob can be used in the oven up to 260°C. Cast iron products be used under the grill too. Cast iron products with wooden handles cannot be used in the oven.
What’s the difference between the light and dark enamel?
You’ll mainly find our light, bright sand enamel in casseroles, saucepans and roasters. This cooking surface is very smooth and well suited to more 'moist' methods of cooking like casseroles, roasting or baking. Pieces made with this enamel are great for preparing stews and soups, and for easy roasting. The light surface makes it easy to monitor food as you cook to avoid burning and makes for a great backdrop when bringing your pots and pans to the table. It’s especially easy to clean too!
Our darker, black enamel is mainly used on our grills and frying pans. It’s a little rougher (a more textured enamel) and very hard-wearing so it won't peel or wear off. Over time, the build-up of frying oils and fats creates a patina (a protective layer) that reinforces the easy-release properties, helping food release effortlessly.
Is the enamel scratch-resistant?
Yes, our enamel is scratch-resistant. But it’s always best to be careful – we recommend you go gentle on your cast iron and use wood, plastic or silicone cooking utensils. And, when it’s time to clean your piece, use our specially developed cast iron cleaner.
Are cast iron products rustproof?
Yes, our cast iron cookware is generally rustproof. Areas that might appear to be uncoated (like lids and pot rims) are actually coated with a thin enamel primer. Remember to always dry these areas thoroughly after cleaning.
How do I ‘burn in’ my cast iron pan?
No, you should never ‘burn in’ your cast iron – it can damage your pot and its performance.
All our cast iron products are fully sealed with two coats of premium enamel and don’t need any ‘seasoning’.
What is a patina?
Over time, oils and fats build up to create a brownish black patina (a protective layer) that gives your piece brilliant easy-release properties, helping food release effortlessly.