How do I season a cast iron pan properly?

Start by washing the pan with warm soapy water and drying it completely, either with a towel or briefly on the stove over low heat. Then apply a very thin layer of a high smoke point oil like flaxseed, vegetable, or Crisco all over the pan, inside and out, including the handle. Wipe off as much oil as you can with a clean cloth so only a barely visible layer remains. Place the pan upside down in an oven preheated to 450 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, with foil on the rack below to catch drips. Bake for one hour, then let it cool in the oven. Repeat this process three to four times for a strong initial seasoning.