Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of frequently asked questions. Still have another question? Feel free to contact us via email or phone.

1. The manual mentions seasoning, but the pans are ‘pre-seasoned’. What does that mean?

Answer: The pans come from the factory with a pre-seasoned layer. This is a protective, slightly rough layer that you can see and feel when unpacking. This layer protects the pans during transport and storage. For optimal use, the pan must be seasoned by applying multiple layers of fat, preferably with The Windmill cast iron conditioner (TWM090). This conditioner feels less greasy than oil. Always use a product suitable for consumption.

In summary:

• Pre-seasoned: Factory-applied protective layer.
• Seasoning: User-applied protective layer against rust and non-stick coating for cooking.

2. Can olive oil, wok oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil be used for seasoning?

Answer: It is possible, but The Windmill advises against it because these oils have specific flavors that can affect the taste of your dishes. Additionally, they tend to leave a greasy layer that attracts dust.

3. How can the handle of the Dutch Oven be removed?

Answer: The stainless steel handle of the Dutch Oven does not need to be removed during seasoning. The manual refers to Pie Irons, where the stainless steel handles with wooden grips do need to be removed during seasoning.

4. How can baked-on residue be removed from the pan? Do I need to re-season the pan afterward?

Answer: Fill the pan with a bit of water and bring it to a boil. This often helps to loosen most of the residue, which can then be easily wiped away. Afterward, treat the pan as usual before storing it. If using a scrub brush, the seasoning layer may become damaged, so it's recommended to re-season the pan for safety.

5. The manual says that water and cast iron don't mix well. Can water still be boiled in the pan?

Answer: Yes, that's possible. After use, the pan should be rinsed with water, heated thoroughly, and then re-seasoned with a thin layer of conditioner, such as The Windmill conditioner (TWM090).

6. My cast iron product is rusting. What can be done?

Answer: Small rust spots can be scrubbed off with a wire brush. After that, the product should be re-seasoned as if it's the first time. If the entire product is rusty, it can be sandblasted, but this will remove the protective layer, so it will need to be re-seasoned thoroughly afterward.

7. My product doesn’t smoke during seasoning as described. Is this a problem?

Answer: Smoking during seasoning is essential. If it doesn’t happen, try raising the temperature to 180-200°C (350-400°F). Make sure not to set the temperature too high to prevent burning the layer.

8. What material are the BBQ pan knobs made of, and up to what temperature can they withstand?

Answer: The BBQ pan knobs are made of bakelite and can withstand temperatures of up to 200-220°C (390-430°F). For higher temperatures, the stainless steel knob, available as an accessory from The Windmill, is recommended.

9. How can I make a warranty claim?

Answer: To claim the warranty, please contact the store or website where the product was purchased. If the product was purchased directly from The Windmill via the webshop, Amazon, or Bol.com, please contact us directly via email.

10. Does the campfire set need to be seasoned?

Answer: No, seasoning the campfire set is not necessary, but it can be done to prevent rust. Since food is not directly cooked on the cast iron, seasoning is not essential. However, if left unseasoned, the product will rust.

11. Are there matching lids for the skillets/frying pans?

Answer: Yes and no. The Windmill does not offer separate lids for skillets, but the lids of BBQ pans or Dutch ovens fit three of the four skillets:

• Skillet regular (TWM003): Fits the lid of BBQ pan S (TWM006).
• Skillet maxi (TWM004): Fits the lid of Dutch oven 4.5Qt (TWM009).
• Skillet extra (TWM005): Doesn't fit perfectly with the lid of Dutch oven 6Qt (TWM010) and 9Qt (TWM011), but can still be used.
• Saute pan (TWM037): Fits the lid of Dutch oven 6Qt (TWM010) and 9Qt (TWM011).