The traditional method of curing a cast iron skillet involves several steps. First, the skillet needs to be thoroughly cleaned to remove any factory residues or old seasoning. Once cleaned, a layer of cooking oil—commonly flaxseed, vegetable, or canola oil—is applied to the entire surface of the skillet. Next, the skillet is baked upside down in an oven at a high temperature, typically around 350-500°F (175-260°C), for a duration that can vary from one hour to multiple hours. This heating process polymerizes the oil, creating a hard, semi-permanent coating.