Cleaning cast iron items can be dirty, but the method is simple. And regular simple maintenance of these items can also ensure that they stay clean and ready to use. Old pots and pans which may have been out of use for some time can look almost new again.

The first thing you will want to do to clean your cast iron pots and pans is make sure you first have plenty of eye, breathing and hand protection since you will be using chemicals which can be dangerous.

The next thing you want to do is spray the pans with oven cleaner. Then seal it in a large plastic kitchen bag. leave it set for about a couple days to let the degreaser do its work. Then you will want to remove it and begin scrubbing it with a brass brush.

If there is still rust then just rince and repeat the process.

Other alternatives also include soaking cast iron pieces in 50% water and 50% vinegar mixture for a few hours and then cleaning with the brush again until cleaned.

For heavier crud you may try letting items soak in a bucket of 2 gallons of water mixed with a can of lye for up to 5 days. then cleaning again with the brass brush until cleaned up.

• If you want to reseason a pan you may put it in the oven for a few minutes after which adding some shortening or lard and heating it up further in the oven for another 30 minutes or so, and then proceed by cleaning it up.

Make sure after completing the entire process to dispose properly of any trash, chemicals or waste materials.