Clean Rust From Cast Iron Grill Grates
Datetime:2014-06-11 Hits:
Rust will often form on grill grates if you do not clean the grates regularly and maintain your grill. Once you notice the rust, you will need to remove it before you can cook any food. You can remove the rust from cast iron grates without having to throw the grates away and buy new ones. After you remove the rust, you will need to clean the grill grates regularly to prevent the rust from returning.
Instructions
1
Turn the heat up on the grill to remove any lingering grease and food residue. Simply stack a pile of charcoal in the center of the grill or turn on all the burner valves on a gas grill.
2
Use a grill brush to remove most of the rust. Use a stainless steel brush on cast iron grill grates and a brass bristled brush on porcelain-coated cast iron grill grates. Apply pressure to the brush to the surface and scrub back and forth on the grill grates.
3
Reduce the heat on the grill by spreading the charcoals or turning off the burner valves. Remove the grates from the grill and sprinkle baking soda over the rusted areas. Place the grates into an oven set at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The baking soda will heat and release carbon dioxide bubbles, which will help to remove the rust. Scrub the grates with a bristled brush and wipe them clean with a washcloth.
4
Pour vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray vinegar onto the grill grates over the rusted areas. Wipe the grates with a washcloth. Continue to spray the vinegar on the affected area to remove the rust.
5
Rub the rust areas with sand paper as a last resort. The sand particles will remove the rust from the grates, but it will also scratch them. Slide the sand paper back and forth over the rusted area.
6
Apply vegetable shortening to the grill grates to season them. Rust will often form more easily if the seasoning burns off. Spread unsalted vegetable shortening over the grates with a paper towel, heat the grill for 15 minutes and then turn the burner to low. Close the lid and allow the grill grates to heat for 1 hour, then turn the grill off.
