How to Remove Rust and Season a Cast Iron Dutch Oven

October 28, 2026

KNEVA EXPLAIN · CAST IRON CARE

Rust on bare cast iron? Surface rust is common and can usually be removed. Clean away the rust, then rebuild a thin protective layer of seasoning on the pot and lid.

This method is for bare, uncoated cast iron Dutch ovens. Season before first use and after removing rust.

56-second animated guide240°C · 1 hourCool inside the switched-off oven

Watch the step-by-step guide

Sound on for the instructions. The six-step checklist ticks as each explanation finishes. Watch on YouTube.

What you need

Steel wool for rusty areas
Warm water and mild dish soap
A lint-free cloth or paper towels
Canola oil, soybean oil or a neutral vegetable-oil blend
An oven-safe metal tray to catch any drips
Suitable oven gloves for handling hot cookware

Six steps to restore and season cast iron

STEP 1 / 6

Scrub, wash and rinse

Scrub rusty areas with steel wool until the surface rust is gone. Wash the pot and lid with warm, soapy water, then rinse thoroughly.

STEP 2 / 6

Dry, warm gently, then cool

Dry both pieces immediately. Warm gently to remove remaining moisture, then let them cool enough to handle before applying oil.

STEP 3 / 6

Oil thinly and wipe

Rub a very thin layer of canola, soybean or neutral vegetable oil over the pot and lid, inside and out, including the bases and handles.

Wipe again until the surfaces look almost dry. A heavy coat can leave a sticky finish.

STEP 4 / 6

Bake at 240°C for one hour

Remove silicone accessories. Preheat the oven to 240°C. Put the pot and lid separately, upside down on the oven rack.

Place a metal tray on the rack below to catch any drips. Bake for one hour.

STEP 5 / 6

Switch off and leave inside

Switch the oven off. Leave the pot and lid inside the switched-off oven until completely cool.

Allow the cookware to cool in place before removing it.

STEP 6 / 6

Care after every use

Wash, dry thoroughly and lightly oil before storing. Store completely cool in a dry place. No soaking or dishwasher.

The most common mistake: too much oil.

The surface should look almost dry before it goes into the oven. Wiping away excess oil leaves the thin layer needed for seasoning and helps prevent a sticky finish.

What is seasoning?

Seasoning is a thin layer of oil changed by heat into a protective coating, a process called polymerization. It helps protect bare iron from moisture. Regular cooking and careful cleaning help maintain that layer.