using vinegar to remove rust from cast iron

Others say to keep buffing or use a very light application. Then, scrub away the paste using an abrasive surface. Apply the paste to the rust build-up and allow it to sit for a few hours. I found that the paraffin wax does not leave a 'slick' surface. Baking Soda Paste - As an alternative to using vinegar, you can attempt to clean rust off cast iron grills and other metal surfaces using a thick paste make from baking soda and water. It is basically WD-40, mineral spirits, and paraffin wax. I tried and still occasionally use Boeshield T-9 protectant. It left stains in the cast iron, which I removed with heavy WD-40 and gray Scotchbrite pads. The surface should be clean, smooth, and slick for wood cutting when you're done. Allow the wax to dry and buff with a clean cloth like waxing your car.

After that, clean off the surface with mineral spirits and wax immediately with SC Johnson Paste Wax or Renaissance Wax. Switch from green to gray once the heavy rust is removed. Green pads if the rust is severe, gray pads if not severe. If your goal is to remove rust, then it is a great option.I like a generous coating of WD-40 and using Scotchbrite pads. It will remove the seasoning and you’ll have to reseason your pan. Can I use steel wool on cast iron?Īvoid steel wool when cleaning cast iron. The layer of seasoning may be wearing off as well. It might be stored in a humid area which can accelerate rust. Make sure that your pan stays as dry as possible. To be safe, clean your cast iron pan soon after you notice any rust buildup. As rust grows, harmful bacteria may grow with it. Can you use a rusty cast iron pan?Ī little rust is OK, but don’t let too much build up. Once you remove all the rust, rinse the pan with water and dry it thoroughly. Pour one tablespoon of salt into the pan and scrub it vigorously. Use coarse salt to remove rust from cast iron. How do you remove rust from cast iron with salt? Repeat this process until the rust is completely gone. Then wipe the pan with a scrubby sponge or dish towel. Pour Coke on the rusted area and wait 15 to 20 minutes for the acid to break down the rust. Yes, Coke contains phosphoric acid which helps remove rust from cast iron. Steel wool is best for rust that’s difficult to remove. Let it soak in half vinegar and half water longer before removing the rust. To remove small amounts of rust, you can use a scrubby sponge or scrub brush instead of steel wool. Wash the cookware with water, dry it, and season it with oil. Then, use the hard side of a sponge to scrub the baking soda into the rust. Pour the vinegar solution out of the pot or pan and sprinkle baking soda over any rusty spots. How do you remove rust from cast iron without steel wool? Scrub with baking soda to remove tough rust spots. Then scrub the rust off with a scrubby sponge, scrub brush, or steel wool.

The easiest way to remove rust from cast iron is to soak the pan in a 1:1 vinegar and water solution. After about an hour you can try to scrub some of the rust to see if it comes off easily.įrequently Asked Questions What is the easiest way to remove rust from iron? Most rust will soften in one to two hours, though.

Let it soak for one to two hours.ĭepending on the toughness of the rust, you may need to wait up to eight to 10 hours. The more vinegar you use, the less time it’ll take to break down. The less vinegar you use, the longer it will likely take for the rust to break down. When you add the pan, the water level will rise! You want enough cleaning solution to fully submerge your cast iron pan.īe careful not to overflow the sink. Fully submerge your cast iron in half water and half vinegar.įill your sink with half water and half vinegar. Oil with a high smoke point (peanut oil, canola oil)ġ. If you still notice rust (or your elbow grease is running low) you can warm the piece and let it soak in vinegar for 10 to 30 minutes.Dry the skillet completely with paper towels or a dish towel. Remove all the rust using a scrubby sponge or steel wool. Fully submerge your cast iron in half water and half vinegar.

Using vinegar to remove rust from cast iron