How to clean a cast iron kettle the right way

So, you're wondering how to clean a cast iron kettle without ruining that beautiful finish or ending up with a mouthful of rust? It's actually a lot simpler than most people think, though it does take a bit more love than your average stainless steel pot. Whether you've got a vintage tetsubin you found at a thrift store or a modern stovetop kettle that's started looking a bit neglected, the process is pretty much the same. It's all about balance—removing the gunk without stripping away the protection. ...

February 13, 2026 · 7 min · Dayala Pressburg/kinsey