How to Restore a Rusty Cast Iron Skillet in 7 Quick (and Easy!) Steps
The method of cleaning cast iron is something of tradition passed down to generations, sometimes along with the cookware itself. Some cooks and cast iron diehards dare not let theirs near water, much less soap of any sort, and letting one rust may indeed fall into the book of unpardonable sins for some home chefs. But fear not: We learned the proper way to restore rusty cast iron from the experts at Lodge Cookware themselves. A few simple steps at home can restore rusted cast iron cookware to cook-ready condition. Here’s how.
How to Remove Rust from a Cast Iron Skillet
- Remove all the rust.
- Wash the skillet thoroughly.
- Dry the skillet.
- Cover the pan with a coating of oil.
- Don’t forget the bottom and handle.
- Place the pan in the oven.
- Let the pan cool before using.
Don’t Throw Your Rusted Cast Iron Out Just Yet
Regardless of the extent of the rust, there are options beyond throwing out rusted cast iron. For severe rust that covers most of the cookware surface, take the piece to a machine shop to have it sandblasted and restored to raw cast iron, then season the skillet immediately. Then, you can start with step four here, or use the tutorial above.
Most commonly, neglect or moisture results in what’s called “profile rusting,” which can be seen and felt on the cookware. Thankfully, profile rusting is easily removed at home in an afternoon. Follow the steps below and you’ll be all set.
How To Restore a Rusty Cast Iron Skillet
What You’ll Need
- Steel wool
- Dish soap
- Scrubbing brush, scouring pad, or sponge
- Dish towel or paper towels
- Vegetable oil (or cooking oil of choice)
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
1. Remove all the rust
Use fine steel wool to remove rust from affected areas. Scour the skillet until the area returns to raw cast iron.
2. Wash the skillet thoroughly
Wash the cast iron with warm water and mild dish soap. Scrub with bristle brush, gentle scouring pad, or mesh sponge if needed.
3. Dry the skillet
Thoroughly dry the cast iron immediately with a clean dish towel or paper towels.
4. Cover the pan with a coating of oil
Apply a small amount of vegetable oil (or cooking oil of choice) to the entire piece.
5. Don’t forget the bottom and handle
When oiling, don’t forget the bottom and handle. Use only a small amount to avoid a sticky surface.
6. Place the pan in the oven
Place the cast iron upside down on the top rack of your oven. Place a sheet of aluminum foil or a foil-lined baking sheet on the bottom rack to catch any oil drips. Heat the cast iron for one hour at 350°F.
7. Let the pan cool before using
Turn off the heat, let the cast iron cool, then get back to cooking.
More Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Cast Iron
- How To Season a Cast Iron Skillet
- Why the Cast Iron Skillet Is the Key to Better One-Pan Cooking
- 35 Ways to Love Your Cast Iron Skillet
- All the Things I Never Do to My Cast Iron Skillet
- 5 Myths of Cast Iron Cookware
- The Best Way to Dry a Cast Iron Skillet
- Store Your Cast Iron with This One Thing to Make It Last Longer