To remove rust from a cast iron skillet start by sprinkling a small amount of baking soda and water on the pan.
My ceramic cast iron skillet is rusting.
Just stick to baking soda a towel and only if necessary use mild dish soap.
The first step to bringing that cast iron skillet back to life is the vinegar soak.
You can also use a paste of salt and water to scrub away the rust.
Unlike non stick pans cast iron was meant to last forever even when rust takes hold.
Never soak the pan.
While a little bit of soap is fine you should avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning your cast iron skillet even if it is rusty.
Keep the following tips in mind.
Wipe off any excess water with a towel immediately after rinsing.
For those of you with a rusty skillet lodge cast iron recommends a good scrub wash dry oil and bake.
If the skillet has a thick layer of rust and very little visible black iron soak the pan in a 50 50 solution of white vinegar and water in a plugged sink.
Want to avoid a having a rusted cast iron skillet in the first place.
The vinegar soak is the tried and true method for cast iron skillets that have intense and what appears to be irreversible rust damage.
Don t let the pan air dry.
Since cast iron is so vulnerable to rust it s best to limit your pan s exposure to water as much as possible.
For pans with severe rust try using a cleaning product with 20 hydrochloric acid such as a low priced toilet bowl cleaner.
Then use a rag to scour away the rusty spots.
With a good sprucing up using this five step method you can salvage your skillet and get back to cooking.