Before first use, the cast iron pan must be thoroughly cleaned with hot water and dish soap to remove the factory-applied corrosion protection of wax or oil, as well as any remaining dirt. After drying, the pan should be seasoned to build up a protective patina and prevent rust; this is ideally done by repeatedly heating it with a thin layer of linseed oil in the oven or on the stovetop with oil, salt, and potato peels. After each use, the pan should only be cleaned with hot water (without dish soap), dried immediately, and sealed with a thin film of oil for maintenance.