Cast iron pans are popular choices for cooking a variety of foods. They are great for searing foods like meat, and their natural heat retention capabilities mean they cook food more evenly overall as they stay hot for longer than stainless steel pans.
These pans are also naturally non-stick, as they build up their non-stick properties through “seasoning” on the bottom of the pan, rather than using the chemical coatings that other non-stick pans have.
However, cast iron pans require higher maintenance than other pans. They need to have their “seasoning” regularly maintained to maintain the non-stick layer, which you can do by coating the pan with a thin layer of oil and then baking it in the oven.
Seasoning the pan will also help prevent it from rusting – a problem that cast iron pans face as they’re not treated with anything. The problem of rusting also means you must fully dry them after they’ve been cleaned, as any water left on the pan could cause spots of rust to form over time.
If you have a cast iron pan that has begun to rust, however, don’t worry. There’s something you can do to restore your pan in no time at all – and you just need a common vegetable.
A woman named Leilani shared a video on Instagram in which she said someone had left water in her cast iron pan and caused it to rust. She then shared her hack to remove the rust – using a potato.
Leilani began by sprinkling salt all over the base of her pan. She then cut a potato in half and used one half to scrub the pan. The cut side of the potato picked up the salt crystals and worked them into the rust, helping to remove the unwanted layer.
In the caption, she explained: “There’s no worse feeling than seeing rust build up on your cast iron that you’ve worked so hard to season over the years. Am I bummed that I now have to start over? Yes, but I’m also grateful that cast irons can’t be ruined.
“You can always get them back into working shape, so there’s no reason they ever need to end up in the landfill. This potato method was so easy and worked really well for the light coat of rust I had!”
Commenters on her post were blown away by the trick, as they had no idea the potato and salt would soak up and remove the rust.
One person said: “Okay, wow, I had no idea! This is so cool.”
Another added: “What?! That’s so nifty!”
How to clean a cast iron pan
1. Clean immediately after use.
While the pan is still warm (but not hot), wipe out any food with a paper towel or cloth.
2. Use minimal soap (if needed).
- For light cleaning: Rinse with warm water and scrub with a non-abrasive brush or sponge.
- For stuck-on food: Sprinkle coarse salt into the pan and scrub with a paper towel or brush. Rinse with warm water.
- A small amount of mild dish soap is okay occasionally, but not necessary.
3. Avoid soaking or dishwasher
Never soak your cast iron pan in water or put it in the dishwasher – this can cause rust.
4. Dry thoroughly
Immediately dry the pan with a towel. To ensure it’s completely dry, place it on the stove over low heat for a few minutes.
5. Re-oil the surface
While the pan is still warm, rub a thin layer of cooking oil over the entire surface with a paper towel. Wipe off any excess.
6. Store properly
Store in a dry place. You can place a paper towel inside to absorb any moisture.
