Is That Orange Residue on My New Carbon Steel Pan Rust?

Not the kind you need to worry about.

If you just unboxed your new H Cookware carbon steel pan and noticed an orange or brown residue when wiping or washing it, don’t panic. This is normal for new carbon steel and easy to take care of.

Here's what's happening and what to do.

What Is the Orange Residue?

After heat treating, every H Cookware carbon steel cookware is coated with a thin layer of food-safe mineral oil and beeswax. This temporary layer protects it from corrosion during shipping and storage. This coating can oxidize—and that’s what leaves a light orange or brown tint on your cloth or sponge.

It’s completely safe, and it disappears once you prep and season your pan.

How Do I Remove It?

It only takes a few steps:

1. Wash with warm water and mild soap to remove the wax/oil layer.
   
2. Dry thoroughly.
   
3. Apply a thin coat of oil and heat the pan once or twice for initial seasoning.
   
4. Start cooking.

👉 If you still see a bit of orange residue on a cloth, don’t worry. Just cook or season again–it will disappear as layers of seasoning build. For full seasoning instructions, click here.

Why It's Actually a Good Thing

That beeswax-and-oil layer means your pan arrives in perfect condition—protected from corrosion, safe in transit, and ready for you to start cooking sooner.

To learn more about what makes H Cookware carbon steel different, check out our full guide: Why H Cookware Carbon Steel Is Different (and Easier to Use)