Cast iron Dutch ovens are wonderful for cooking a variety of items while camping. But proper cleaning and care will make it last longer and work better. It needs to be cleaned immediately after use.

• After finishing your meal or dessert, scrape all food out with a plastic scraper. There are a number of scrapers made for this or a pancake turner will work.

• After scraping the food out, rinse it out with warm water.

• Using a vinegar solution with 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water, scrub the interior of the Dutch oven with a sponge and/or clean scrub brush.

• Repeat this step until all evidence of food is gone.

• Warm Dutch oven by the fire or coals.

• Apply a thin layer of shortening to all surfaces of the dutch ovens, including the lid.

• Allow to cool.

• Place a paper towel between the Dutch oven and the lid.

• It is now ready to be used for the next meal or to be stored away.