How to Restore Rusted Cast Iron Cookware

Use a non-metallic scrubber to restore rusted cast iron cookware.

Cast iron skillets or muffin pans are common cookware in most kitchens. To make perfect cornbread, cooks often swear by using cast iron cookware. While durable, cast iron can also become rusty, especially when left soaking in water. To restore the cookware, rust spots need removed and the cast iron requires re-seasoning.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid dish soap
• Nylon scrubber
• Dish towel
• Aluminum foil
• Baking sheet
• Wax paper
• Unsalted vegetable shortening
• Paper towel

Instructions

1. Fill a sink with 1 tsp. liquid dish soap and hot water. Place the rusted cast iron cookware into the sink and allow it to remain in the soapy water for three minutes.

2. Scrub the rust from the cookware with a nylon scrubber. After removing all the rust stains, rinse the cookware with hot water. Dry the cookware with a clean dish towel.

3. Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place aluminum foil over the top of a large baking sheet.

4. Tear off a piece of wax paper. Scoop up 1/4 cup of unsalted vegetable shortening with the wax paper.

5. Rub the cast iron cookware with the shortening, covering the entire inside and outside areas.

6. Place the cookware on the baking sheet upside down and put into the oven for one hour.

7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookware to cool completely. Wipe any grease from the cookware with a clean paper towel.

Tips & Warnings

• Dry cast iron cookware after cleaning and avoid allowing water to evaporate on the surface to prevent the formation of rust.

References

• Good Housekeeping: How to Remove Rust From a Cast Iron Skillet