Cast iron retains heat, keeping food warm on the table. Before using the dishes for the first time, wash them thoroughly with warm soapy water. Then rub edible oil into the cast iron and roast it by placing it in an oven heated to 200 ° for 15 minutes. This seasons the surface of the cast iron, which strengthens the durability and helps form a non-stick coating. After use, clean it by washing with a damp cloth.