3 Surprising Kitchen Items Olive Oil Can Refresh—and 1 It Can Ruin

Olive oil is a cooking staple, but that’s not the only reason you should keep a bottle in your kitchen. This versatile oil can clean, polish, and condition some of the most frequently used items in your kitchen—from appliances to cookware. That said, there is one kitchen essential that shouldn’t be polished with olive oil. Keep reading to learn more.

1. Cast-Iron Pans

You shouldn’t use soap on cast iron, as it can remove the pan’s oiled finish and leave a soapy residue that can ruin your next dish. Instead, grab a sponge, salt, and olive oil. First, use a non-abrasive sponge and water to wash the pan, and if needed, add salt to scrub off any stuck-on bits. Fully dry the pan with a clean cloth, then cover it with a very thin coat of olive oil (opt for regular olive oil rather than extra-virgin) to season it. You can also use grapeseed or canola oil.

The next time your pan is looking dull, or food starts to stick, it’s calling for a more intensive re-seasoning. Repeat the steps above and then line the bottom of your oven with aluminum foil to catch oil drips. Preheat the oven between 350°F and 400°F, set the pan upside down on the top rack, and bake for an hour. Turn off the oven, let the pan cool, and you’ll have a perfectly re-seasoned cast-iron skillet.

2. Stainless-Steel Appliances

From your dishwasher to your fridge, stainless-steel appliances are magnets for fingerprints and greasy smudges. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to reduce the need for constant scrubbing: olive oil. After wiping any stainless-steel appliance with a soapy dish rag and drying it with a microfiber cloth, use a second cloth to buff in a small amount of olive oil. This creates a light protective layer that helps repel marks and keeps the steel looking polished. 

3. Stainless-Steel Pots, Pans, and Bowls

Olive oil can also revive the shine of your stainless-steel cookware. After washing and drying stainless-steel pots, pans, or mixing bowls, rub a small amount of olive oil onto the outside with a microfiber cloth. Buff gently to remove water spots and restore the polished finish. Not only will they look refreshed, but the oil also adds a thin layer of protection against future smudges and dullness.

Don’t Use Olive Oil on Wooden Cutting Boards

While it may seem counterintuitive, given that olive oil is obviously food-safe, it should not be used on wooden cutting boards (or on wooden bowls or utensils). Olive oil can oxidize and go rancid over time, leaving unpleasant odors and even transferring bad flavors to your food. Instead, treat your wooden cutting boards with food-grade mineral oil or beeswax, which won’t spoil and will keep the wood conditioned, protected, and safe for everyday use.