How to Remove Rust from a Cast-Iron Skillet

By Heloise

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How do I clean a rusted iron skillet?
Ruth Berry, Humboldt, TN


I have my mother's and grandmother's cast-iron skillets and love them--nothing's better for cooking corn bread. To restore yours, use a nonmetallic scrubber to remove the rust, wash with a mild dish soap, rinse well, and dry with a clean towel. Then re-season the surface by coating it (inside and out) with unsalted vegetable shortening. Put the greased skillet upside down on a foil-covered baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Let cool, and remove excess grease with a paper towel. To prevent rust, never soak cast iron in water, put it in the dishwasher, or scrub with metal scouring pads or harsh cleansers. Put a paper plate, paper towel, or round coffee filter between stored pans to absorb moisture.

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