Cleaning Le Creuset

Today my housekeeper was asking me about my Le Creuset and All-Clad cookware, as she is ready to invest in a few good pieces. My only complaint was that Le Creuset, over time, stains and the company says it is very normal. The Le Creuset cleaner never worked for me nor did anything else that was safe for the enamel surface. Since my housekeeper uses only natural products in my house, mainly white vinegar, and baking soda, for everything, she experimented on my braiser's lid and pot. Later, when I came home she told me that she made a paste of the white vinegar and baking soda, and just used her hands to rub the stains. All the stains on the lid came off and it looked like the day I got it. The five quart pot was about 85 % better. I was totally amazed.
What natural products have you found works to clean your Le Creuset?

[Jenise]

The two pieces of LC I have aren't for general cooking so haven't picked up color. But if they did, and not to say you're wrong in having a different preference, but I'd probably accept that as seasoning and a comfortable, lived-in look. I've always actually looked forward to my pots not looking new anymore. For instance, I love the way the two Magnalite skillets I got when Bob and I got married look after 20 years of constant use, but of course they were dark to start with. Maybe I'd feel differently if they were white like an LC, but I wouldn't bet on it.

We just let ours age. Our Dutch oven is about 12 years old and definitely shows it. I'm not sure if what's on the bottom is staining so much as it's wearing away of the enamel, though. I'll have to have another look at that when I get home.

I agree with both of you. At first, I was concerned because they are so pretty, but the more I cook in them, the more even the darker color is getting, and I had adjusted to it. I did find it interesting today, however, that such a simple method of cleaning could make them look great again, especially the lid. Plus, I loved it that my housekeeper took an interest, and knowing how fussy she is, I did want to mention this to her.

[Jenise]

You're right, Karen, that it's cool your housekeeper took an interest. Probably why I don't care if they turn colors--I'm my own housekeeper, and that's extra work!

The baking soda and vinegar are a great way to clean copper, too.