Crystal -cast iron

[Meenah]

Please tell me how to restore my cast iron. You mentioned sanding and restoring, what do I do?

[scrub-jay]

Well, it really depends on how badly it is damaged. If it has a really uneven surface due to years of burnt food residue (gunk), then drastic measures may be needed - such as sanding or oven cleaner (we've never used oven cleaner though). If the finish is spotted and/or food is starting to stick to it -- then you might be able to get away with just re-seasoning it.

The one we found at the garage sale looked like it was miniature model of the Rocky Mountains and had very obviously never been maintained. Lucky for us, my FIL has a shop full of tools, including sanding equipment. We took the pan with us the next time we visited and went to work on it until it was perfectly smooth and silver colored - thanks electric sander. Of course, following any sanding (especially our excessive sanding) it has to be re-season.

I've heard that you can use oven cleaner to restore a cast iron pan, but we have never attempted it. However, whenever you take any kind of drastic measures to your cast iron pan, remember to re-season before using it. I hope this helps.

Seasoning: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cast-iron_cookware