How to Clean Flat Cast Iron Surfaces With Corrosion

Cast iron is an extremely durable material that stands up well to use. Often found in old pipes, wood stoves and cooking pans, cast iron will corrode and rust if exposed to moisture. The corrosion may appear whitish-yellow or a dull rusty brown depending on the circumstances. If left unchecked, the rust and corrosion will eat away at the metal. If caught soon enough, the corrosion can be removed and the cast iron surface can be restored to its original state.

Things You'll Need

• Wire brush
• Drill w/ wire brush
• Steel wool
• Salt
• Vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Use a wire brush to scrub away the corrosion to get a good look at the surface of the cast iron item. A pitted surface indicates that the corrosion has begun to deteriorate the surface. Light pits can be removed with sanding, but deeply pitted cast iron cannot be corrected.

2. Try a wire brush attachment to the drill if the corrosion is resistant to the hand brush. Use care not to damage or scratch the surface. The object is to lift and remove rust and corrosion so you can restore the surface.

3. Scrub with steel wool to remove any remaining rust or corrosion. The fine grit of the steel wool works to remove residue without damage to the surface of the cast iron.

4. Wipe down cast iron with a soft cloth to remove traces of rust or corrosion. If possible, cover the surface with a light coat of oil and sprinkle table salt onto the oil to create an abrasive cleaner. Use a folded paper towel to work the salt and oil over the surface. Rinse to remove the salt and allow to air dry.

5. Apply heat to dry the item thoroughly. Pans can be heated on a medium burner. Other objects can either be placed in the oven at 250 degrees F or dried with a heat gun or hair dryer. Setting the object in the sun is also an option.

6. Coat the dried surface with vegetable oil to seal the surface and prevent rust and corrosion from returning.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply liquid rust remover to surfaces that will not be used for cooking or serving food. This dissolves the rust allowing you to restore the surface of cast iron.

• Always use nontoxic remedies for cast iron used in cooking. Store cast iron in a dry area.

References

• Corroded Pipes
• Rust Remover