Cast iron rust

[bonkboo]

My cast iron pan is starting to show some rust.  Any thoughts on what I should use to remove this?  

 

Thanks

[Dave the Cook]

Bar Keepers Friend will remove most rust. Once you've done that, you'll want to reseason your pan.

[Porthos]

Bar Keeper's Friend works well. If that is not doing the trick then a soaking in vinegar will loosen/dissolve most of the rust, then use the BKF to finish.

 

I restore vintage cast iron and this has served me well.

 

eGullet topic on cast iron care.

[bonkboo]

Thanks guys.  I will try this.

[KennethT]

To me, I thing the best thing to do with cast iron is remove the rust with steel wool, then wash, then reseason...

[Kerry Beal]

For really bad rust I use naval jelly - then reseason quickly.

[Thanks for the Crepes]

I forgot about naval jelly. Years ago, I used it on a car and on some old cast-iron patio furniture my MIL gave me to get rid of rust before painting. It works miracles. I don't know the science, but I suspect some chemical reaction is going on. You will want to wash and rinse very thoroughly after use, because there is no way this chemical brew is food-safe. I remember having to wear rubber gloves, and it tingling my skin even through the gloves. Probably eye protection isn't a bad idea either, just in case of an accidental splash. It sure is effective, though.

[Kerry Beal]

The chemistry is simply phosphoric acid. Like vinegar on steroids.

[JoNorvelleWalker]

17 hours ago, Kerry Beal said:

The chemistry is simply phosphoric acid. Like vinegar on steroids.

 

I've heard that Coca-Cola works.

[Kerry Beal]

Indeed - slightly less concentrated phosphoric acid!