Cast iron pans, with their rugged charm and unbeatable heat retention, are kitchen treasures. But what happens when rust creeps in? Fear not! Let’s roll up our sleeves and banish that rust, restoring your cast iron to its former glory.
Scrub and Wash Your Pan:
- Scour the rusty sections with steel wool or the Lodge Rust Eraser.
- Then, wash the pan with warm, soapy water. Don’t worry if this removes some of the seasoning—we’re getting ready to re-season it.
Dry Thoroughly:
- Completely dry your cast iron skillet with a paper towel or lint-free cloth.
- You can also place it on the stovetop on low heat for a few minutes to ensure it’s bone-dry.
Apply Oil:
- Add a very thin layer of cooking oil to the entire surface of your cast iron.
- Go easy on the oil—just enough for a thin layer, not dripping or running.
Bake for 1 Hour:
- Preheat your oven to 450–500°F.
- Place aluminum foil on the bottom rack to catch any excess oil.
- Put your cookware upside down on the center rack to prevent oil pooling on the cooking surface.
- Bake for 1 hour.
Cool in the Oven:
- Turn off the heat and allow the cast iron skillet to cool in the oven.
- This lets the seasoning further cure and adhere to the iron.
Video Tutorial:
- For a visual guide, check out this video tutorial on restoring rusty cast iron.
Remember, rust is just a temporary setback. With a little love and care, your cast iron will be back in action, ready to whip up delicious meals!
