Removing Rust From Muffin Pans: Quick And Easy Guide

Rust on muffin pans is not only unappealing but can also be a health hazard. Rust is caused by the continuous exposure of pans to water, and it can spread rapidly, causing severe damage to your pans. Luckily, there are several ways to remove rust from muffin pans, including using vinegar, lemon juice, potatoes, baking soda, commercial rust removers, and citric acid.

Vinegar and lemon juice

To use the vinegar and lemon juice method, mix one part of each and soak the rusted areas of your muffin pan. Leave the solution on the pan for a few minutes and you will see the rust dissolve. Be sure to rinse the pan thoroughly after the rust has dissolved, to prevent the acid from continuing to dissolve the metal.

If your muffin pan is made of a delicate material or has a non-stick coating, dilute the solution with an equal part of water to prevent damage. You can also oil your pan after removing the rust to condition it for future use.

Always ensure you dry your pans thoroughly before storing them, and store them in a cool, dry, dark place to prevent the buildup of rust.

Potato and dish soap scrub

If your muffin pans are already suffering from rust, there are ways to restore them. One of the most preferred techniques is to avoid harsh chemicals.

A potato and dish soap scrub can be used to treat a rusted area. Potatoes contain oxalic acid, which is a key ingredient in many cleaning products and helps to break down the rust.

To try this technique, follow these steps:

• Slice a potato in half.
• Cover the cut section with dish soap.
• Sprinkle salt or baking soda onto the potato. The salt or baking soda will act as a mild abrasive to help scrape the rust off the metal surfaces as it dissolves.
• Rub the rusted area with the potato until the corrosion is gone.
• Rinse and dry the muffin pans well.

This technique works best for pieces of metal without detailing or relief work.

To prevent rust from forming on your muffin pans in the future, ensure they are completely dry before storing them. Proper drying and storing in a cool, dry, and dark place are the best ways to prevent rusting.

Baking soda

First, rinse your muffin pans with water and shake off any excess moisture. Then, apply a thin layer of baking soda to the rusty areas of the pan. You can also add a little bit of white vinegar to create a bubbling reaction that helps dissolve the rust. Leave the baking soda (and vinegar, if using) on the pan for at least 30 minutes.

After that, use a scrubbing sponge, metal brush, scouring pad, or steel wool to rub the baking soda into the rusty spots in a circular motion. Rinse off the baking soda and rust debris with water and clean the pan with dish soap. Finally, dry the pan with a clean towel.

If there is still some rust remaining, simply repeat the process.

Commercial rust removers

One popular option is the Evapo-Rust Super Safe Rust Remover, which is pH-neutral, does not require scrubbing, and can be used on antiques and auto parts. The formula is water-based, so all you need to do is submerge your muffin pans and let the solution do its magic. A little goes a long way with this product, and it comes in a large 1-gallon container. While it is safe to use, it is recommended to wear gloves when handling the formula.

Another highly effective rust remover is the Metal Rescue, which comes in a ready-to-use bath version and a concentrated formula. It is safe to use, being water-based, non-corrosive, non-flammable, and non-toxic. It won't harm rubber, plastics, glass, or most paints, but it is recommended to test it on a small area first if you are concerned about its safety on certain surfaces.

For those looking for a budget-friendly option, the WD-40 Rust Remover Soak is a great choice. It is a strong, pre-mixed, ready-to-use rust dissolver that is safe, biodegradable, and non-toxic. It is important to remove loose debris and dirt before submerging items in the solution and to rinse and dry them afterward.

If you are dealing with heavy rust, the POR-15 Rust Remover is a powerful solution containing phosphoric acid and other strong chemicals. It can remove heavy rust in as little as 20 minutes and is safe on PVC, Viton, and most paints. However, it is important to note that it has more warnings than other products and should be kept away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces.

Finally, CLR PRO is another excellent option that is powerful enough for industrial use yet biodegradable and free of ammonia and bleach. It has earned the EPA Safer Choice certification, confirming its safety for humans and the environment. It can be used on various surfaces, including plastic, stainless steel, aluminum, and concrete, but it should be used with caution on natural stone and grout.

Preventing future rust

To prevent your muffin pans from rusting in the future, make sure to always dry them before storing. Proper drying is the best way to prevent rusting, as pans continuously come into contact with water and rust occurs when they are stored without being thoroughly dried off.

It is also important to store your pans in a cool, dry, and dark place, as heat and humidity can encourage the buildup of rust. If you use your pans occasionally, it is best to apply a coating of rust-proof primer to them, which will add a protective layer to reduce the chances of rust.

You can also try to rub a small amount of olive oil onto the pan. If you have multiple pans, place a paper towel between them to keep any moisture from sitting on the pans.

Frequently asked questions