When compared to stainless grills, cast iron grills are extremely tough. They do not get easily scratched or discolored when you use any kind of abrasive surface. The only challenge with cast iron grill lies in preventing rust. We just delve into details about cleaning cast iron stove grates.
Key Points to Remember
Once you have purchased your cast iron grill, always adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions on how to season the item. The best way to keep cast iron grill free from rust is by seasoning it properly before use.
As for those who purchase a used grill, it is quite easy to tell whether it was well cared for or not. If you find out that there is a significant build of rust on the grill, chances are high that it was not seasoned by the owner before use. It may also mean it was not cared for properly by the owner. Fortunately, it is possible to restore the rusty cast iron grill to excellent working condition.
Cleaning Cast Iron Stove Grates
The useful life of the grill can be extended if the rust has not been allowed to accumulate to a level whereby it has eaten up the iron. There are several ways that can be used when cleaning cast iron stove grates, especially the rusty ones.
The first step should be to remove the rust from the cast iron grill. This requires any type of abrasive cleaning tool. Some of the best type of material to use include steel wool and wire brushes. You simply use your own muscle and an abrasive surface in eliminating the rust without the need to use any cleaning solution aid.
Another option for cleaning cast iron stove grates would be to use a cleaning solution such as the following;
- Baking Soda Paste
You can use baking soda paste to clean rust from cast iron grills and many other metal surfaces. The paste is made by mixing water with baking soda. You simply prepare the paste then apply it onto the area you want to clean. Allow it to sit for some hours then scrub it off using an abrasive cleaning surface. You can do this several times until you get the sparkling look you desire.
- Vinegar
This is another alternative to using baking soda. Vinegar is highly effective for cleaning metallic surfaces including iron stove grate surfaces. Using your full strength, simply rub the affected area with plain white vinegar then let it sit for a few minutes. This will dissolve the rust. Once the vinegar begins to dissolve the rust, take a steel wool or wire brush then start to clean the area affected. Do this a number of times until the rust is completely gone.
- Salt Paste
This is another effective option for cleaning cast iron stove grates. A salt paste is more abrasive when compared to vinegar and baking soda. It has the capability of removing rust more effectively from your cast iron grills.
You simply need to prepare a thick kosher salt and water paste. Once this is ready, apply it to the rusty area then take an abrasive surface such as a steel wool or a wire brush. Use it to remove the rust. Do this several times if necessary. If the surface has some stubborn rust then you have to apply another strategy. You should begin your cleaning by using a salt paste. Once the first few layers of rust have been removed, switch to baking soda paste which is less abrasive.
Seasoning the Cast Iron Stove Grills
Once the rust is eliminated, the process of cleaning cast iron stove grates is not over. You have to season it using a layer of vegetable oil. This will help prevent future rust. You should also keep the grills seasoned after each cleaning using oil coating. Repeat this process regularly so as to avoid rust build up in the grills.
The process of cleaning cast iron stove grates is quite simple and when followed the grills will serve you for many years. The problem with many people is that they neglect their grills and end up spending a lot of money on replacement. Do not be one of them.
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