How to Clean a Cast Iron Kettle Loaded With Rust
- 1). Lay the kettle on its side on a flat surface. Place it between two heavy objects to keep it from moving.
- 2). Apply 2 to 4 tbsp. of coarse sea salt and 2 tbsp. of vegetable oil to the interior and exterior surfaces of the tea kettle. Add more salt and oil in this proportion as needed to remove the rust.
- 3). Fold a washcloth in half and scrub vigorously. Concentrate the scrubbing on the rusted areas, but cover the entire interior and exterior surfaces of the kettle with the salt and oil mixture. Replace the washcloth when it becomes covered with rust to prevent spreading the rust back onto the kettle.
- 4). Use steel wool to remove tough rust stains on the inside and outside of the kettle. Rinse the steel wool frequently while you scrub so that you do not rub the rust around.
- 5). Wash the cast iron kettle with dish soap. Rinse the kettle with hot water, and dry it off completely to prevent rust from returning.
- 6). Apply a thin coat of vegetable oil to the interior and exterior surfaces of the kettle with a paper towel. Cure the cast iron kettle in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour. Wipe off the excess oil with a clean paper towel and allow the cast iron kettle to cool completely before you use it.
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