Removing Rust: Simple Instructions with Home Remedies

Rust occurs mainly when metal is exposed to oxygen. How you can remove rust with simple home remedies, you will learn in this article.

Rust forms when water and air get to iron and steel. For example, rust can accumulate on items in the garden – such as pruning shears – or in the home – such as screwdrivers. Clothes can also have rust stains if you accidentally slurp a piece of clothing along the rust. Home remedies against rust are cheap, usually quickly at hand and often more environmentally friendly than aggressive cleaners. You can use home remedies to remove rust, especially if the rust is superficial.

Removing rust from metal

For metal objects from the garden or household, you have several options to remove rust:

Mixture of vinegar and cooking oil

Mix vinegar and oil in a 1:1 ratio.
Brush the mixture thickly onto the affected areas.
Let this sit for up to several hours, depending on how dirty it is.
Then rub the rusty spots with a soft cloth. For very heavy rust stains, an old toothbrush or wire brush can also help.

Mix baking soda and baking powder

Mix baking soda with baking powder (ratio 1:1) and add a little water until you get a thick paste.
Apply the paste to a sponge.
Leave it on for some time and treat the rusty areas with it.

This paste is a relatively gentle cleaning method, so it is especially recommended for delicate materials, such as stone tiles. You can also apply the paste to clothes and let it work.

Cola

Cola is often recommended as a home remedy for rust. Moisten a sponge or a soft cloth with it and rub off the rust stains.

Remove rust stains on clothes

If you want to get rid of rust stains from clothes, you can use the following home remedies:

Lemon juice

As with other stains on textiles, speed is of the essence. Otherwise, the stain will set. Citric acid is a suitable remedy for rust stains on clothes.