Cast iron skillets have been kitchen staples for generations due to their durability, versatility, and ability to retain seasoning. However, neglect and improper care can lead to rust and damage over time. Restoring a cast iron skillet to its former glory is possible with some time and effort. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to rehab a rusty, damaged cast iron skillet.
Cleaning and Removing Rust
The first step is a deep clean to remove as much of the built-up gunk and rust as possible. Here are the supplies you’ll need:
- Steel wool or a metal brush
- Dish soap
- White vinegar
- Water
- Plastic tub or bin big enough to submerge the skillet
- Rust remover (optional)
Steps:
- Fill the tub with hot water and add a generous amount of dish soap. Fully submerge the skillet and let it soak for at least 30 minutes to loosen debris. Scrub with steel wool or a brush.
- Dump the dirty water and rinse well. Make a paste with equal parts white vinegar and salt and spread it over the entire surface of the skillet. Let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing. The vinegar will help dissolve additional gunk and rust.
- For stubborn rust spots, apply a commercial rust remover and let it work for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing clean.
- Dry the skillet thoroughly with a towel. Check for any remaining rust spots and repeat cleaning if needed.
Removing Old Seasoning and Layers
If your cast iron skillet has years of built-up seasoning that has started to flake off, it’s best to strip it down to the bare iron before re-seasoning. Here are two methods:
Self-Cleaning Oven Cycle
- Place the skillet inside your oven on the self-cleaning cycle for a full cycle. This uses ultra high heat to incinerate all debris.
- Allow skillet to cool completely before removing from oven.
Easy-Off Oven Cleaner
- Place skillet in a heavy duty plastic bag and spray liberally with Easy-Off oven cleaner. Tie bag securely and let soak outside for several days.
- Rinse clean and immediately wash with dish soap and water to remove any chemical residue.
Either method will burn off all old seasoning and debris, leaving you with a fresh start.
Treating Rust and Pitting
If there are still areas of light rust or pitting damage once all the debris is removed, it’s important to treat these areas before re-seasoning. Here are two simple rust treatments:
Vinegar Soak
- Fill tub or bin with undiluted white vinegar and fully submerge skillet for 2-3 hours.
- Scrub vigorously with steel wool or brush and rinse clean.
Naval Jelly
- Apply naval jelly (phosphoric acid solution) directly to affected areas of rust.
- Let sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing clean.
Repeat these treatments as needed until skillet is free of rust and pitting.
Re-seasoning
Once your cast iron skillet is squeaky clean and rust-free, it’s time to re-season it. Seasoning will fill in pores and form a natural non-stick surface. Here is a simple seasoning process:
Stovetop Seasoning
- Dry skillet thoroughly and coat with a thin layer of high smoke point oil like grapeseed or avocado oil.
- Heat skillet on stovetop for 5 minutes before wiping out oil with a paper towel.
- Repeat oiling and heating process 2-3 more times until skillet develops a shiny patina.
- Turn off heat and allow skillet to cool down gradually.
Repeat the stovetop seasoning 2-3 times for a smooth and resilient seasoning layer. Filling in pitting and smoothing the cooking surface.
Maintaining Seasoning
To keep your cast iron in great condition after restoring, follow these tips:
- Cook fatty foods like bacon regularly to reinforce the seasoning.
- Avoid cooking acidic foods until seasoning is well-established.
- Clean with warm water, mild soap, and a brush – avoid harsh scouring.
- Re-oil after each cleaning and before storing.
- Always dry promptly after rinsing to prevent rusting.
With proper care and maintenance, your restored cast iron skillet will provide decades more of delicious cooking! Let the restoration begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get rid of tough baked-on gunk and debris?
For really stubborn stuck-on food or debris, you can boil water in the skillet for 5-10 minutes. This should help loosen the material so you can scrub it out with steel wool or a brush.
How do I get rid of old flaking seasoning?
Stripping off flaking seasoning is important before re-seasoning. The self-cleaning oven method or Easy-Off oven cleaner soak are two effective methods to remove it down to the bare metal.
What can I do about a skillet with heavy rust damage?
If the rust is severe, you may need extra rounds of rust remover, vinegar soaks, and naval jelly applications. For deep pitting, you can smooth the surface with fine grit sandpaper before seasoning. But deep pits will remain and affect non-stick properties.
How often should I repeat the seasoning process?
It’s best to do 2-3 rounds of stovetop seasoning initially to build up a good base layer. From there, you just need periodic touch ups when the skillet starts looking dry or cooked on food is sticking.
How do I get rust off utensils and pans that were stored together?
If your cast iron got stored with other metal utensils that now have rust, soak them in white vinegar for 30-60 minutes before scrubbing clean and drying thoroughly. Prevent future rust by storing separately.
What oil is best to season with?
Opt for oils with high smoke points like grapeseed, avocado, rice bran or flaxseed. Avoid olive or vegetable oil which can go rancid. Crisco shortening is also commonly used for seasoning cast iron.
Conclusion
Restoring a damaged and rusty cast iron skillet is very satisfying and will revive this versatile pan. With some scrubbing, rust removal, re-seasoning, and ongoing maintenance, your cast iron will function like new again. Always hand wash, dry promptly, and treat it with care to prevent future rust and damage. Happy cooking!