Cleaning Rusted Cast Iron: Cornbread Stick Pan Revived

Cast iron cornbread pans are notoriously difficult to clean due to their non-stick coating, which means food particles can get stuck in the pores of the pan. This can lead to rusting, which is hard to remove because most rusting agents can't be applied to cast iron. However, there are several methods you can use to clean a rusty cast iron cornbread pan, including the salt method, soap and water method, baking soda method, white vinegar method, and Bar Keepers Friend method.

How to Clean Rusted Cast Iron Cornbread Stick Pan

Characteristics	Values
Supplies	Coke, 2-liter bottle, container, steel wool, Dawn dish washing liquid, vegetable oil or olive oil, paper towels, aluminum foil, oven
First Step	Place the pan in a container and cover with coke
Second Step	Leave the pan in the coke overnight
Third Step	Remove the pan and wash in hot water with Dawn dish washing liquid to remove remaining rust
Fourth Step	Rinse and dry with a cloth or lint-free paper towel
Fifth Step	Season pan once again by coating completely with a very light layer of oil
Sixth Step	Preheat oven to 450</co:°>°
Seventh Step	<co: 5>Cover the bottom shelf of the oven with a piece of aluminum foil
Eighth Step	Place the cast iron upside down directly onto the baking rack in the oven and bake for one hour
Ninth Step	If the pan comes out a bit gummy, place back into the oven for another hour until the stickiness is gone
Tenth Step	Turn the oven off and let the cast iron cool completely in the oven

Use salt

If you have a rusted cast iron cornbread pan, you can use salt to clean it. This method is best for light rust.

First, heat up your pan on the stove. Sprinkle a liberal amount of salt onto the pan. When the salt starts smoking, wipe it off. Repeat this process three or four times. Then, rinse the pan in hot water and dry it thoroughly.

You can also use salt to remove stuck-on food from your cast iron pan. While the pan is warm, add 1/4 cup of kosher salt and a few drops of warm water. Gently scrub the pan with a non-abrasive sponge or scrub brush. The salt will dissolve as you scrub, and won't damage the pan's seasoning. Wash, dry, and wipe the pan with oil as usual.

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Soap and water

To clean a rusted cast iron cornbread stick pan with soap and water, you'll need to take the following steps:

Firstly, heat up the pan on the stovetop. Then, turn off the heat and pour a few tablespoons of dish soap into the pan. Use a scouring pad or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub the pan. Rinse the pan thoroughly with water, and then dry it over low heat until all the water has evaporated.

This method is effective for removing light rust from your cast iron cornbread stick pan. However, it requires a bit more work than some other methods, such as the salt method or using baking soda. Remember to always dry your cast iron pan thoroughly after washing to prevent rust from forming.

Additionally, while a small amount of mild soap is safe to use, avoid using large amounts of soap as it can strip the seasoning from your pan. Also, never put your cast iron pan in the dishwasher, as this will likely cause rust.

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Baking soda

Begin by heating up the pan on the stovetop.
Once heated, turn off the stove.
Fill the pan with water.
Add half a cup of baking soda.
Let the pan soak overnight.
After soaking, scrub the pan with a scouring pad.
Rinse the pan with hot water.
Dry the pan thoroughly.

This method works because baking soda has mild abrasive properties and its alkaline pH can help neutralize acidic burnt foods. The alkaline baking soda can also combine with an acid, such as vinegar, to create a fizzing reaction that helps loosen burnt food.

For more severe rust, a heavier-duty cleaner may be required, such as a product containing hydrochloric acid. However, for light rust, baking soda is an excellent option that is likely to be readily available in your kitchen.

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White vinegar

If your cast iron cornbread stick pan has mild rust, you can use white vinegar to clean it. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Start by heating up your pan on the stovetop.
Turn off the heat.
Pour half a cup of white vinegar into the pan and let it sit overnight.
The next day, scrub the pan with a scouring pad.
Rinse the pan in hot water.
Dry the pan over low heat until all the water has evaporated.

This method uses the corrosive properties of vinegar to help remove rust stains from your cast-iron pan. However, it is important to note that this method is only suitable for mild rust. For heavier rust, you may need to try other methods or a combination of different approaches.

Additionally, always exercise caution when using this method as vinegar can damage the original cast surface of your pan if left for too long. Regular maintenance and proper storage of your cast iron cookware will help prevent rust and ensure it lasts for generations.

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Bar Keepers Friend

Make a paste with Bar Keepers Friend and water in a 1:1 ratio.
Using a rag, gently rub the paste onto the cast iron pan in a circular motion, applying even pressure as you work.
With a little elbow grease, the rust stains should come off.
Wash, dry, and re-season the pan afterward.

In addition to Bar Keepers Friend, there are several other methods to clean a cast iron cornbread pan, including salt, soap and water, baking soda, and white vinegar. It is important to note that cast iron pans should not be soaked in water or washed in the dishwasher, as this can cause rusting. After washing, ensure that the pan is thoroughly dried and rubbed with a small amount of vegetable oil to prevent rust.