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How do I remove rust from a wok safely?

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Dear Finishing.com,

I have a large heavy metal wok that I would like to put to use. It has rust on the bottom though. How do I remove rust from a wok? Thank you for your time.

Anita Usher
- Gilbert, Arizona, USA

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I would use an SOS pad (or some other similar soapy steel wool pad). When the rust is gone, be sure to oil (with vegetable oil) the wok to prevent this from happening in the future.

Dan Brewer
chemical process supplier - Gurnee, Illinois

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+++ citric acid [linked by editor to product info at Amazon] will remove rust. I once cleaned up a rusted bolt by soaking it in lemon juice over night. The rust was completely gone and no sanding or scrubbing was necessary. The smell was awful though - similar to rotten eggs.

Jim Gorsich Accurate Anodizing Inc. Compton, California, USA

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I have a very heavy metal wok. I seasoned it before I used it, but now after use and cleaning, it smells very "metal-y". I would like to know if there is anyway I can clean the wok and re-season so it's safe to use and doesn't smell like that.

Beth Dunning
homemaker - Fall River, Wisconsin

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If you clean it with steel wool it is going to be "metal-y", Beth. Use a plastic scouring pad and reseason it with cooking oil or grease and a hot oven. letter 4988 has some specific instructions.

Ted Mooney, P.E. finishing.com Brick, New Jersey