Iron kettles (tetsubin) are beloved for their beautiful designs and functionality, but they are also prone to rusting. Rust on iron kettles is primarily caused by moisture and humidity, and it can progress if proper care is neglected. However, with thorough daily maintenance, it’s possible to prevent rust and use the kettle for a long time.
This article explains in detail the causes of rust on iron kettles and effective maintenance methods to prevent rust. We’ll also introduce ways to deal with rust if it does occur and share tips on how to keep your iron kettle in beautiful condition.
What is Rust on Iron Kettles?
Iron kettles are popular traditional Japanese tea utensils, but rust can be a significant issue when using them. By understanding rust and dealing with it appropriately, you can continue to use your iron kettle for a long time.
Below, we’ll explain the main causes of rust on iron kettles and how to remove it.
Causes of Rust on Iron Kettles
The main cause of rust on iron kettles is contact with water. When iron reacts with oxygen in the air or water, oxidation progresses, resulting in red rust (iron oxide).
Iron kettles are particularly prone to rusting in the following situations:
- Leaving water in the kettle for long periods
- Storing the kettle while it’s still damp without drying it after use
- Storing in high humidity locations
When these factors combine, rust can form on both the inside and outside of the iron kettle. Therefore, it’s important to create an environment that’s less conducive to rust formation when storing your iron kettle.
Does Rust on Iron Kettles Affect Health?
Iron kettles are popular among health-conscious individuals because they can supplement iron intake when boiling water. Many people worry about rust on iron kettles, but mild rust has little to no impact on health.
Below, we’ll explain in detail the role of iron kettles in iron supplementation and the effects of rust on the human body.
The Role of Iron Kettles in Iron Supplementation
When you boil water in an iron kettle, a small amount of iron dissolves into the water, potentially providing iron supplementation through daily use. This is particularly effective for those prone to iron deficiency, as iron kettles offer a natural way to supplement iron that may be difficult to obtain from diet alone.
As small amounts of iron are released each time water is boiled, the effect of supplementing iron deficiency increases with long-term use. Therefore, iron kettles are highly valued not only for their appeal as crafts but also as items for daily use.
The Impact of Rust on the Human Body and Its Harmless Range
Many people worry that they can no longer use their iron kettle if rust forms inside, but mild red rust (iron oxide) that forms on iron kettles is considered harmless to the body.
Therefore, you can continue to use the kettle without issue as long as the water inside doesn’t turn red. However, if severe rusting occurs, it’s recommended to remove the rust using the tannin in tea. This changes the red rust to black rust, which helps prevent further corrosion.
Key Points to Avoid Rust Formation on Iron Kettles
To prevent rust formation, it’s important to properly care for your iron kettle. Specifically, pay attention to the following points:
- Always wipe off all moisture completely after use and dry thoroughly
- Don’t store in high humidity locations
- Don’t leave boiled water in the kettle
Rust is more likely to form when left in high humidity places. Therefore, storing in a well-ventilated area can help prevent rust formation.
Also, leaving water in the kettle can promote rust formation, so be sure to empty the water and dry thoroughly after use.
Basic Maintenance Methods to Prevent Rust on Iron Kettles
With proper care, you can prevent rust and maintain the beautiful condition of your iron kettle for a long time. Here, we’ll introduce basic maintenance methods from seasoning to drying after use and storage.
How to Season When Using for the First Time
When using an iron kettle for the first time, follow these steps for seasoning:
- Fill the kettle with water to 80% capacity and bring it to a boil over low heat.
- After boiling, discard the water, refill, and repeat 2-3 times to warm the inside of the kettle.
By following these steps, a layer of scale (calcium film) forms inside the kettle, which helps prevent rust formation. It’s good to use the kettle daily for the first 1-2 weeks until this scale forms naturally.
Correct Drying Method After Use
To reiterate, it’s crucial to dry the iron kettle thoroughly after use to prevent rust formation. After using your iron kettle, follow these maintenance steps:
- After use, discard all remaining water and let the residual heat dry the interior.
- To ensure complete drying, heat the kettle over low heat for about 30 seconds with the lid off.
- Wipe the exterior with a dry cloth, paying special attention to the spout and lid areas to ensure no moisture remains.
Always check that no moisture remains on both the inside and outside of the kettle after use, and store it in a completely dry state.
How to Deal with Rust on Iron Kettles
Even with proper care, rust can form on iron kettles depending on usage and storage conditions. Below, we’ll introduce methods for dealing with both mild and severe rust.
How to Remove Mild Rust
Mild rust can often be removed simply by boiling water. Here are the steps to remove mild rust:
- Fill the kettle with water to 80% capacity and boil for about 30 minutes.
- After boiling, transfer the water to a white container to check its color. If the water is clear, it’s a sign that the rust has been removed.
For mild rust, repeating these steps a few times should clear the water color, allowing you to continue using the kettle. This procedure is also effective in preventing rust formation, so it’s a good idea to follow these steps after use or when using a kettle that has been stored for a long time.
How to Deal with Severe Rust
For severe rust, a method using the tannin in green tea is effective.
- First, lightly scrub the inside of the kettle with a brush to remove as much surface rust as possible.
- Put green tea (or a tea bag) in the kettle, fill with water to 80% capacity, and boil for about 30 minutes.
- After boiling, turn off the heat and let it sit for half a day to overnight.
- The next day, discard the water, rinse lightly, and boil water again.
Repeating this process several times will gradually remove the rust. Even severe rust can be significantly improved with this method, but in cases of very severe rust or if holes have formed, professional repair may be necessary.
In most cases, rust on iron kettles can be resolved with proper care. Mild rust can often be removed by repeated boiling, while severe rust can be treated using the tea method.
Differences Between Rust on the Inside and Outside of Iron Kettles and How to Deal with It
The treatment for rust differs between the inside and outside of iron kettles. Rust on the inside is relatively harmless and rarely affects use significantly, but rust on the outside affects appearance and durability, requiring proper care.
Effects and Treatment of Rust on the Inside
Mild rust on the inside of an iron kettle is generally not a major problem. The rust that forms on the inside is called “red rust” and is a type of iron oxide.
Even if the water becomes slightly cloudy, it doesn’t affect health and can actually contribute to iron supplementation. However, if it affects the taste or color of the water, the following treatments are recommended:
- Use green tea tannins
- Lightly scrub with a brush
Brewing tea leaves like green tea or pu-erh tea can turn the red rust into black rust, which is more stable and less likely to progress. For severe red rust, lightly scrubbing with a brush before brewing green tea can be effective.
Methods and Precautions for Removing Rust on the Outside
Compared to rust on the inside, rust on the outside not only affects appearance but also tends to progress if left untreated, requiring prompt attention. If rust forms on the outside of your iron kettle, use the following methods to remove it:
- Wipe with a tea cloth
- Gently scrub with a toothbrush
Wrapping used tea leaves in a cloth and carefully wiping the outside can create a natural sheen and prevent rust. For mild red rust, gently scrubbing with a toothbrush or soft cloth, then drying and wiping again can prevent rust formation.
When removing rust from the outside, avoid using abrasives to remove rust. Abrasives can scratch the surface and accelerate rust progression.
Preventive Measures to Help Prevent Rust on Iron Kettles
To keep your iron kettle beautiful for a long time, proper care to prevent rust is essential. Below, we’ll introduce points for preventing rust, from regular maintenance to daily usage.
Regular Maintenance is Crucial for Rust Prevention
You can prevent rust formation by maintaining your iron kettle every time you use it. Pay special attention to the following points:
Complete Moisture Removal
After use, completely discard any water remaining inside the kettle and dry the interior with residual heat. Always dry with the lid open, as remaining moisture can cause rust.
Wiping the Surface
Wipe the outside with a dry cloth after use, paying special attention to ensure no moisture remains on the spout or underside of the lid.
To prevent rust formation, make sure to maintain your kettle after each use by drying it with the lid open and wiping it with a dry cloth to remove all moisture.
Water Quality that Resists Rust and How to Adjust It
The water quality used in the iron kettle also affects rust. For example, simply changing from hard water to soft water can help prevent rust.
Hard water contains more calcium and magnesium compared to soft water, which can react with iron and cause rust. Therefore, if possible, using soft or filtered water can help prevent rust formation.
Conclusion: Maintain Your Iron Kettle’s Quality with Daily Care
To use your iron kettle for a long time, daily maintenance is essential. By thoroughly removing moisture each time you use it and avoiding humid places, you can prevent rust and maintain the beauty of your iron kettle.
Moreover, by being mindful of the water quality you use and following correct drying methods, you can not only maintain the quality of your iron kettle but also enjoy iron supplementation and delicious hot water. An iron kettle, when properly cared for, is a lifelong tool that can be used for decades. Cherish your daily care routine and protect the quality of your iron kettle.
