How To Clean Rust From Cast Iron

Cast Iron skillets and dutch ovens have been a staple in my kitchen for many many years. Over time, they may become a little rusty and need some extra attention. Learn how to clean rust from cast iron so you can enjoy your cookware for years to come.

Materials Needed

Chain Scrubber

Steel Wool

Brush

White Vinegar

Baking Soda

Water

Baking Sheet

Tin Foil

Why Does Cast Iron Rust?

Cast iron rusts because it is primarily composed of iron, which reacts with oxygen and water to form iron oxide—commonly known as rust. This can happen if you’ve soaked your skillet in water for too long. Acidic foods like tomatoes, vinegar, etc., can strip the protective seasoning and expose iron. Scratches or abrasions can remove any oil or seasoning layer, causing the cast iron to rust.

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How To Prevent Rust?

1.  Seasoning: A good high heat oil like coconut oil will keep your skillet or pan seasoned.

2.  Dry thoroughly after use.

3.  Store in a dry place; avoid prolonged soaking.

4.  Re-season if rust appears—scrub, oil, and bake.

Instructions on How to Remove Rust

There’s two ways you can remove stubborn rust and it depends on how deep the rust is on which option to use. One is with vinegar and water and the other option is baking soda.

Method #1 (Light Rust) – Vinegar/Water

• Mix 1:1 white vinegar and water in a tub.

• Submerge skillet up to 1 hour (check every 15 min). Don’t exceed 1 hour—vinegar can etch the iron. Mine are usually good at 30 minutes.

• Remove when rust loosens (it’ll look black/gray).

• Scrub with brush, steel wool or chainmail scrubber under running water. You can even use this rust eraser.

• Rinse thoroughly, dry immediately with towel.

• Season with the coconut oil. You’ll need less than a tbsp of oil (most skillets). Just apply the oil evenly front and back.

• Place on a tinfoil lined baking sheet (face-down) and bake at 450°for 1 hour. Allow to cool.

Method #2 (Heavy/Pitted Rust) – Baking Soda

• Make a paste with baking soda and water. It should resemble the consistency of toothespaste.

• Remove, scrub off any loose rust.

• Smear the baking soda mixture all over the cast iron that you are cleaning. Allow to set for 30 minutes to an hour.
• Using a brush, wool or chainmail scrubber, run the cast iron under hot water (scrubbing and rinsing).
• Dry completely.
• Place the cast iron (faced down) on a tinfoil lined foil lined baking sheet. Bake in the over on 450°for 1 hour. Allow to cool.
• Repeat, if needed.

Tips

1. For stubborn rust, you may need to repeat the process.
2. When working with a lid, roll up balls of tin foil and place them evenly underneath the lid. This will balance the kid in the oven. I put my lids face-up in the oven and they come out nice and clean.
3. When applying oil to your cast iron, use one that has a high heat point such as coconut or avocado oil.
4. Using a nice pair of kitchen gloves will keep your hands from getting messy.

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Maintaining Cast Iron

Never soak in water. Washing it with a mild natural dish soap is perfectly fine. Just don’t soak it overnight.

Dry thoroughly after each use (stove or towel).

Light oil wipe after drying.

Store in dry place; stack with paper towels between pans.

Items Used

Chainmail Scrubber

Cleaning Brush

Cleaning Gloves

Baking Sheet

Where to Buy Cast Iron

I love buying my cast iron from here. They have super quality and a great inventory to include dutch ovens, skillets, lids and accessories. The skillets have also have fun designs on the backside so when you hang them they will be on display. If you like outdoor cooking, this is essential. Don’t forget this little guy too!

I hope this tutorial was helpful. Owning cast iron is a treasure. It’s nostalgic and really should be a staple in everyone’s home. They will last forever when taken well cared for.