Step 1
Wash the wok in the sink using very hot water, mild dish soap and a soft sponge to remove rust and any stuck-on food. Do not use a metallic sponge or steel wool; cleaning tools that contain metal fibers damage the coating on the wok and may cause pitting, which causes food to cook unevenly.
Step 2
Dry the wok thoroughly with clean paper towels. Place the wok over low heat for two to three minutes -- before adding oil -- to finish the drying process.
Step 3
Pour 2 tablespoons of peanut or corn oil on a clean paper towel and lightly coat the inside of the wok with it. Heat the wok over medium heat for 15 minutes to season the inside. The wok should turn a deep black color by the end of the allotted time.
Step 4
Remove the wok from heat and allow it to rest at room temperature until it is cool enough to handle.
Step 5
Dry the inside of the wok fully with paper towels, but do not wash it with hot water. Allow the light coating of oil to stay on the inside of the wok to keep food from sticking. Store the wok in a cool, dry place after drying.