There’s something timeless and satisfying about cooking with a well-seasoned cast iron skillet. Whether it’s for crisping tofu, searing vegetables, or baking skillet cornbread, cast iron delivers unbeatable heat retention and flavor. But keeping it in prime condition takes a little care—and most importantly, the right oil for seasoning.

Like many, I used to rely on flaxseed or vegetable oil. That changed once I learned about the benefits of avocado oil—and I haven’t looked back since.

What Is Cast Iron Seasoning?

Before diving into why avocado oil works so well, it helps to understand what seasoning actually is. Seasoning is the process of applying oil to your cast iron and heating it past its smoke point, which causes the oil to polymerize. This creates a hard, smooth layer that protects the pan from rust and makes it naturally non-stick.

The key? Choosing the right oil that can withstand high temperatures and bond effectively with the cast iron surface.

Why Avocado Oil Is the Best Oil for Seasoning Cast Iron

Here’s why avocado oil stands out as one of the top choices for seasoning:

✅ High Smoke Point (~520°F)

Avocado oil can handle extremely high heat without breaking down, which is perfect for seasoning in the oven at 450°F or higher.

✅ Neutral Flavor

Unlike oils that can leave behind odd smells or tastes (like bacon grease or flaxseed oil), avocado oil is flavor-neutral and doesn’t affect the taste of your food.

✅ Forms a Durable, Smooth Coating

Thanks to its high monounsaturated fat content, avocado oil polymerizes beautifully and creates a non-stick surface that improves over time.

✅ Easy to Use & Cook With

I already use avocado oil in my everyday cooking, so it made sense to use it for seasoning, too. It’s versatile, healthy, and always on hand in my kitchen.

For a full how-to, I highly recommend this step-by-step guide on how to season cast iron with avocado oil. It explains everything from prepping the pan to baking it at the right temperature.

A Simpler Option: The Culina Cast Iron Seasoning Stick

As much as I love DIY kitchen projects, I’ll admit—seasoning cast iron can sometimes be messy and time-consuming. That’s why I was excited to discover the Culina Cast Iron Seasoning Stick.

This all-natural stick uses avocado oil and other 100% organic ingredients, giving you the same high-quality seasoning results in a quick, convenient format. It’s perfect for touch-ups after cleaning, restoring older pans, or even seasoning brand new ones.

I simply rub it on a warm skillet, wipe off the excess, and heat. Done. No spills, no measuring, and no guesswork.

My Results After Switching to Avocado Oil and the Seasoning Stick

Since making the switch, my cast iron cookware has developed a rich, black patina that’s smooth and easy to cook on. Foods like eggs, mushrooms, and pancakes cook evenly and slide right off the surface. Better still, I no longer deal with sticky residue or flaking layers.

Plus, cleanup is a breeze—just hot water, a gentle scrub, and a thin layer of oil or seasoning stick before storing.

Final Thoughts

Seasoning cast iron doesn’t have to be complicated. With avocado oil or a ready-to-use product like the Culina Seasoning Stick, keeping your cookware in top condition is easier than ever. Whether you’re restoring an old skillet or building up seasoning on a new one, this method is clean, effective, and food-safe.

Give it a try—and you might just fall in love with your cast iron all over again.