How to Clean a Cast Iron Steamer Kettle

Cast-iron steamer kettles are great to use when cooking indoors or out. Cast iron is an inexpensive metal that withstands direct contact with a flame and retains heat exceptionally well without warping. Even well-maintained cast-iron steamer kettles can develop rust and age spots, however. If your steamer kettles appears to be on its last legs and ready for recycling, don't give up on it just yet. You can get it clean by one of three methods--or all three, if needed.

Things You'll Need

• Scouring pad
• Hot water
• Can of cola
• Bucket or sink
• Spray on oven cleaner
• Plastic bag

Instructions

1. Scrub rust and dirt with a scouring pad in hot water. The scouring pad should be abrasive enough to remove most rust spots that are forming.

2. Soak the kettle in cola for several hours. The cola bubbles and acid will break down rust particles and remove them from the kettle. Wash the kettle in warm water when you are done.

3. Spray the kettle with oven cleaner and wrap it in a plastic bag. Tie the bag in a know that allow it to sit overnight. In the morning, open the bag and scrub the kettle with the scouring pad, then rinse. The oven cleaner should have loosened any rust and grime sitting on the kettle surface.

Tips & Warnings

• Cast iron kettles can last for generations if they are maintained and well-cared for.

• Don't place a kettle from hot water to cold. This can cause the metal to develop cracks and leak.

• Oven cleaner is dangerous--follow manufacturer's instructions for handling.

References

• The Reluctant Gourmet: Don't Cast Away Cast Iron
• Superior Cast Iron: Cleaning Cast Iron