Cast-iron pans can develop rust if they are exposed to moisture and oxygen for extended periods of time. “The metal is susceptible to oxidation; therefore, rust can appear on your cast iron,” says Alicia Sokolowski, the president and co-CEO of AspenClean. Cast iron is porous, so if it is left to soak, put in the dishwasher, or not dried after washing, for example, rust can occur.
I’ve seen this happen firsthand when I left my favorite skillet in the sink overnight after a busy dinner—big mistake! The science behind it is simple: iron reacts with water and oxygen to form iron oxide, aka rust. This process speeds up in humid environments or when the skillet’s protective seasoning layer is compromised. Interestingly, studies suggest that cast iron’s porous nature makes it more prone to holding onto moisture than other metals like stainless steel, which is why proper drying is so critical. To avoid this, I always make sure to dry my skillet right after washing, and I store it in a dry cabinet to keep humidity at bay.
Materials Needed
Make sure you have these materials on hand when cleaning a rusty cast-iron item.
- Steel wool or a stiff brush
- Natural dish soap
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Kitchen towel
These items are pantry staples in most homes, which makes this process super accessible. I prefer using steel wool over a brush because it tackles stubborn rust spots more effectively, though it takes a bit of elbow grease. White vinegar and baking soda are my go-to’s for cleaning just about anything—they’re cheap and eco-friendly. A quick tip: opt for distilled white vinegar, as it’s typically around 5% acidity, perfect for breaking down rust without being too harsh. You can grab a gallon of it for under $3 at most grocery stores, making this a budget-friendly fix.
How to Clean a Rusty Cast-Iron Pan
Removing rust from a cast-iron pan is essential in order to prevent further damage. “Rust is a form of corrosion that can continue to eat away at the metal if left untreated,” says Sokolowski. “By removing rust promptly, you can prevent further deterioration.” Additionally, rust can seep into your food when cooking and change its flavor, says Marla Mock, President of Molly Maid, a Neighborly company.
- Use steel wool or a stiff brush to remove loose rust, making sure to remove as much surface rust as possible.
- If the skillet is particularly dirty, wash it with natural dish soap and warm water. (Note: Avoid using dish soap too regularly, as it can strip away the pan’s seasoning.)
- Fill the sink with equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Soak your pan in the vinegar solution. Let it soak for 30 minutes to an hour, but not more than this.
- After soaking, use the steel wool or brush to scrub the skillet again. The vinegar will break down the rust.
- If you still see some rust spots, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste.
- Apply the paste to rusted areas and scrub with the steel wool or brush.
- Rinse the skillet thoroughly with water to remove any remaining vinegar or baking soda.
- Dry the skillet completely using a kitchen towel.
This method has saved my skillet more than once, and I love how straightforward it is. The vinegar soak is a game-changer—its acetic acid dissolves the rust, making scrubbing so much easier. One thing I’ve learned: don’t let the skillet soak for too long, as prolonged exposure to vinegar can pit the iron. If you’re dealing with heavy rust, you might need to repeat the baking soda step a couple of times. For tough cases, I’ve found that letting the baking soda paste sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing works wonders. Also, if you’re worried about costs, this whole process can be done for less than $5, assuming you already have these household items.
Re-Season Your Cast-Iron Skillet After Cleaning
After removing rust from your cast-iron skillet, you must re-season it. Seasoning is a protective layer of oil that’s baked onto cast iron in the oven, making it naturally nonstick over time. To season cast iron, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the surface and place the skillet upside down in an oven preheated to around 450 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour.
Seasoning is like giving your skillet a new lease on life. I usually use vegetable oil because it’s affordable and has a high smoke point, but some folks swear by flaxseed oil for a harder, more durable finish. The key is to apply a *thin* layer—too much oil can leave a sticky residue. I’ve found that placing a sheet of aluminum foil on the rack below catches any drips and saves me from cleaning the oven later. According to kitchen experts, seasoning can last for months if maintained properly, but frequent use with fatty foods like bacon can naturally reinforce it. This step not only prevents rust but also keeps your skillet cooking like a dream.
How to Prevent Rusting on Cast Iron
Prevent your cast iron from future rusting by knowing how to care for it properly.
- Seasoning your cast-iron skillet after deep cleaning is essential as it protects the surface from direct contact with oxygen and moisture.
- Be careful when cooking acidic foods in a cast-iron skillet. Those ingredients can strip away the seasoning and make the iron more prone to rusting, says Sokolowski.
- Cast-iron cookware should never be put in the dishwasher as it can cause rust, says Mock.
- Use dish soap in moderation when cleaning cast iron. Too much soap can strip the seasoning away, making the skillet less rust-resistant, says Sokolowski.
- Regularly use your cast iron skillet to help maintain its seasoning. The natural oils from the food contribute to the protective layer on the surface, says Sokolowski.
I’ve learned the hard way that acidic foods like tomatoes or lemon juice can wreak havoc on your skillet’s seasoning, so I try to limit those dishes to quick cooks. One trick I picked up is to heat the skillet on low for a few minutes after drying to ensure no moisture lingers—it’s saved me from rust spots more than once. Regular use really does help; my skillet stays in great shape because I cook with it at least once a week, letting those natural oils build up. If you’re not using it often, consider storing it with a light coat of oil to keep it protected. These small habits make a big difference in keeping your cast iron rust-free for years.
