How to Clean Rust from a Cast Iron Pan

You can remove the rust from a cast iron pan for many more years of cooking.

Cast iron can be one of the most difficult metals to clean. Cast iron skillets or pans can become rusty over time after years of use. The rust can be tough to remove and sometimes it can seem impossible to return the pan to new. But with a little effort and common household items, you can give that cast iron pan a new lease of life.

Things You'll Need

• Nylon brush
• Salt
• Steel wool
• Mild dish soap
• Towel
• Vegetable oil
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Scrape off the rust with a nylon brush and some hot water. You can add a little bit of salt, which works as a natural abrasive.

2. Scrub any remaining rust with very fine steel wool. Make the water a little hotter and scrub with the steel wool.

3. Clean the pan with a mild dish soap. Rinse and dry the pan thoroughly with a towel.

4. Pour a thin layer of vegetable over the entire skillet. Heat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place it upside down on top of aluminum foil in the oven for an hour to reseason. Allow enough time for the pan to cool before storing or using it.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't ever soak the cast iron in water or place in the dishwasher. This will cause it to rust.

References

• "Good Housekeeping"; How to Remove Rust From a Cast-Iron Skillet; Heloise
• Pan Man; Reconditioning & Seasoning Cast Iron Cookware; David G. Smith