How To Clean A Wok With Rust

Cleaning a wok with rust might sound a bit strange at first, but it’s actually a traditional method that’s been used for centuries. The reason it’s important is that a wok can get all gunked up with grease and food residue, which can affect the flavor of your food and make it harder to cook evenly.

By using rust to scrub the wok, you can get rid of all that buildup and create a natural non-stick surface that will help your food cook up perfectly every time. Plus, it’s a pretty cool way to clean your wok, and it gives it a bit of character too!

Here’s how to clean a wok with rust.

1. Remove loose rust

If you want to get rid of any loose rust on your wok, just grab a stiff-bristled brush and start scrubbing away those rusty spots. The bristles will help loosen up any flakes, making them easier to brush off. Just be sure not to scrub too hard or you might scratch your wok. That’s pretty much it! Just keep brushing away until you’ve removed all the loose rust.

If you’re using a steel wool pad, make sure to wet it first so it doesn’t scratch the surface of your wok. You can use the same technique with sandpaper, but use a fine grit so you don’t scratch the surface too much.

2. Create a vinegar solution

Creating a vinegar solution is quite easy! Here’s what you’ll need:

• White vinegar
• Water
• A container to mix the solution

Here are the steps to create a vinegar solution:

1. Decide on the ratio of vinegar to water you want to use. For most cleaning purposes, a 1:1 ratio of vinegar to water is sufficient, but you can adjust the ratio based on your needs.
2. Pour the desired amount of vinegar into your container.
3. Add the same amount of water to the container.
4. Mix the vinegar and water together thoroughly.

3. Soak the wok

Now fill your sink or a container large enough to fit your wok with hot water.

Add the cleaning solution of your choice, such as the vinegar solution we just discussed or a commercial rust remover, to the water.

Place your wok in the water and make sure it is fully submerged.

Let the wok soak for at least an hour or longer, depending on the severity of the rust. For stubborn rust, you may want to let it soak overnight.

4. Scrub the wok

After soaking your wok, remove it from the cleaning solution and rinse it thoroughly with hot water.

Use a stiff-bristled brush or a steel wool pad to scrub away any remaining rust or grime. For tough rust, you may need to use sandpaper instead of a brush or pad.

Scrub the entire surface of the wok, including the inside, outside, and bottom.

Be sure to scrub gently and evenly to avoid damaging the wok’s surface.

5. Rinse the wok

After scrubbing your wok, turn on your faucet to hot water.

Hold the wok under the hot water and use your hand or a clean cloth to wipe away any remaining debris or cleaning solution.

Make sure to rinse the entire surface of the wok, including the inside, outside, and bottom.

Rinse the wok until all the debris and cleaning solution are completely washed away.

Turn off the faucet and shake the wok to remove any excess water.

6. Dry the wok

After rinsing your wok, shake it to remove any excess water.

Use a clean towel to wipe away any remaining water droplets on the surface of the wok.

Place the wok on the stove over low heat to let any remaining water evaporate. Be sure to move the wok around to distribute the heat evenly.

Turn off the heat and let the wok cool down before storing it.

7. Season the wok

Clean your wok thoroughly using the cleaning methods we’ve discussed earlier, and make sure it is completely dry.

Turn your stove on to medium-high heat and place the wok on the burner. Add a small amount of cooking oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, to the wok and use a paper towel or cloth to spread it evenly over the surface of the wok. Let the wok heat up for a few minutes until the oil starts to smoke.

Using tongs, rotate the wok so that the oil coats the entire surface, including the sides and bottom. Let the wok heat up for another few minutes, then turn off the heat and let it cool down completely.

Repeat the process of adding oil, heating, and cooling the wok 2-3 times, or until the surface of the wok becomes smooth and shiny.

Once the seasoning process is complete, wipe the wok with a clean cloth to remove any excess oil.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean a wok with rust and restore it to its former glory.