Rusty Carbon Steel Pan? Fix It Naturally with This 2-Ingredient Trick
Rust prevention of carbon steel cookware is not only about maintaining aesthetics but also about ensuring optimal performance in the kitchen. By understanding the causes and implementing effective strategies, your carbon steel cookware can provide you with years of reliable service. Invest the time and effort into proper maintenance, and your pans will reward you with delicious meals and an efficiently run kitchen.
4/5/20251 min read
Why Does Rust Form on Carbon Steel?
Carbon steel is a favorite among chefs and home cooks because it heats evenly and develops a naturally nonstick surface over time. But unlike stainless steel, carbon steel contains iron, which is highly reactive to moisture and air. That means if it’s left wet, even just a little, it can start to rust pretty quickly.
How to Remove Rust from Carbon Steel Cookware with Just a Potato and Salt !
If you've pulled out your favorite carbon steel skillet only to find it dotted with rust, don’t panic — and don’t reach for harsh chemicals, either. There’s a surprisingly simple and eco-friendly solution hiding right in your kitchen: a potato and some salt. Yep, that’s all you need to bring your pan back to life. In this post, I’ll walk you through how this old-school trick works and why it’s so effective.
Sprinkle Salt on the Rusted Area
Generously sprinkle coarse salt directly onto the rust spots. The salt acts as an abrasive.Scrub with the Cut Side of the Potato
Hold the potato like a scrub brush and rub it over the salted area. As you scrub, the natural oxalic acid in the potato helps break down the rust, while the salt scrubs it away.Rinse and Dry Thoroughly
Once the rust is removed, rinse the cookware with warm water and dry it immediately and completely with a towel to avoid new rust.Re-season the Cookware
Rub a thin layer of cooking oil (like flaxseed or vegetable oil) all over the surface, and heat it on the stove until it lightly smokes. This protects the metal and restores its nonstick properties.