Discover how to effortlessly eliminate stubborn rust stains from your cookware using just hot water and baking soda, bringing them back to their original glory! Recently, my mother gifted me several pie plates that belonged to my grandmother. Although I didn’t have many, it was a delightful addition to my kitchen collection. However, after a few uses, I noticed some rust spots developing on them. While the rust wasn’t severe, it was enough to warrant some attention. After much trial and error, I’ve found the most effective and budget-friendly method to restore rusty cookware without resorting to harsh chemicals.
- For kitchen utensils, scissors, and knives, try our DIY rust spray made with lemon juice to effectively remove rust.
If your baking pan is not only rusty but also coated with baked-on grease, be sure to follow our tutorial for grease removal first.
What You’ll Need
- Baking soda
- Magic Eraser or Sponge – I prefer magic erasers as they are less abrasive than steel wool or traditional scouring pads while still being effective.
Steps to Remove Rust from Your Pans
The following tips are highly effective for removing rust from most pots and pans. However, I strongly advise against using this method on non-stick cookware. If you notice rust on a non-stick pan, consult the manufacturer for their recommended cleaning method. For all other types of cookware, follow the steps below.
1. Wash and Leave It Damp
Begin by washing the rusty cookware with a mix of warm water and a bit of dish soap. Gently shake off any excess water, but do not dry it completely. This moisture will help the baking soda adhere to the surface of the pan.
2. Coat with Baking Soda
Generously sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda (about a tablespoon) over the rusted areas, ensuring the spots are well coated.
3. Let It Sit
Allow the baking soda to sit on the rusted areas for approximately 30 minutes. This will give it time to work its magic.
4. Gently Scrub
After the waiting period, take your magic eraser sponge and gently scrub the rusted areas. This should help lift the surface rust effectively.
5. Rinse and Dry
Rinse off the pans thoroughly and then dry them completely. If rust remnants persist, you may need to repeat the process.
6. Repeat if Necessary
In cases where rust is particularly stubborn, you might have to rinse off the baking soda and reapply it one or two more times. For the small rust spots in the pictures, a single treatment sufficed, but in my experience with a heavily rusted cast iron pan, I had to repeat the steps multiple times.
How Does Baking Soda Eliminate Rust?
Baking soda is mildly abrasive and has an alkaline pH, making it effective at dissolving rust from metal surfaces with a bit of scrubbing.
Preventing Future Rust
Once your pans are dried, you can prevent future rusting by applying a small amount of cooking oil using a paper towel or kitchen cloth. I recommend oiling your cookware every six months to keep rust at bay. For pans used frequently, consider oiling them every three months.
Safe Materials for Baking Soda Rust Removal
Baking soda can safely remove rust from most metal surfaces, including the exterior and bottom of pans. It is effective on cast iron, stainless steel, and carbon steel cookware. However, avoid using it on non-stick pans, as it may damage their delicate coating.
Can You Use Baking Soda on a Cast-Iron Skillet?
Absolutely! Cast iron cookware is prone to rust, especially if not dried properly or if the seasoning is inadequate. If the rust is extensive, you may require a scrub brush, steel wool, or a wire brush along with considerable elbow grease. I suggest using baking soda in combination with a chain mail scrubber for best results. Many people find rusty cast-iron skillets at flea markets or yard sales and seek to restore them. If the rust is flaky or deep, it may be best to pass on those items. However, if the cooking surface is still intact, it may be worth salvaging, though the exterior will still need thorough cleaning.
Helpful Tips
- If you’re using this method on a cast-iron skillet, ensure to season it well afterward. Heat it on the stove over low heat, add a small amount of vegetable oil, and once it begins to smoke, drain the excess oil and wipe the inside and outside with a clean paper towel. Be cautious not to use too much oil, as this can leave a sticky residue and necessitate starting over.
- Check out our guide on how to clean cast iron pans.
More Cleaning Tips and Hacks
- 10 Creative Uses for Baking Soda
- How to Clean a Kitchen Sink Effectively
- 26 Ingenious Vinegar Cleaning Hacks from a Pro
- How to Clean Burnt Pots with Ease
Bir yanıt yazın