5 tips for removing rust from metal objects

2023-04-29 06:02:06

When a metal surface is left in damp environments for a long time, it undergoes an oxidation phenomenon which causes the appearance of rust. And no, it’s not necessarily a sign that should suggest that we should get rid of the object! Against this unsightly rust, it is fortunately possible to act thanks to simple ingredients.

An old rusty knife. Source: spm

Some of these tricks might seem quite unusual, but they aren’t among the most proven methods for nothing. You will see, they are all easy to put into practice!

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1. Rub the iron object with the potato and washing-up liquid

Potatoes – Source: spm

Let’s start with the most atypical method. Remove rust with potatoes? How so ? Yes, the idea seems crazy but the question is legitimate and many of us ask it… And yet, the magic happens! To put the trick into practice, nothing could be simpler:

1. We start by cutting a potato in half;
2. Dishwashing liquid is coated on the cut part of one of the two halves;
3. As you would with a sponge or scouring pad, rub the potato against the rusty surface. Gradually, the dishwashing liquid and the potato will react in such a way as to reduce the rust.

It should still be specified that it is preferable to opt for this technique on cases of moderate or light rust as well as on surfaces that are not difficult to access. The potato slips and you really don’t want to hurt yourself if it’s a tool like scissors or a knife that you want to “derust”.

The main advantage with this trick is that it allows you to quickly get rid of rust if it is not stubborn. Moreover, as many of us have this famous tuber, this method comes at the right time when it comes to treating old tools or kitchen appliances impacted by rust.

Only problem, the technique is likely to be messy. To limit or avoid damage, work above the kitchen sink or any outdoor area to make your job easier.

2. Remove rust with baking soda

Baking soda is another great ingredient that can remove rust stains or at least lighten them. To use it, the process is quick:

1. First, spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of baking soda on the rusty parts (depending on the size of the problem areas);
2. Leave to act for 1 hour;
3. Use steel wool to scrub the areas in question until the rust is gone. And if it’s a pan you’re cleaning, it’s best to use a scouring pad.
4. All you have to do is rinse and dry with a clean cloth!

While baking soda has a reputation for treating several areas of the house, including those prone to limescale, it is best to use it on areas where rust is less severe. The only downside is that you have to put a little vigor into it to see results.

3. White vinegar, an excellent stripper alongside baking soda

Now let’s move on to the essential ally of household cleaning: White vinegar. How to use it to overcome rust? Again, it’s simple:

1. Fill a bowl with white vinegar (or a basin depending on the size of the object you are treating);
2. Soak the item in the white vinegar solution;
3. Leave on overnight;
4. The next day, use steel wool or a wire brush to scrub the item. Your object should have regained its beautiful color!

If the object in question is not conducive to bathing, use a cloth soaked in white vinegar and then apply it to the rusty areas. Leave on for several hours then use the steel wool to scrub.

This approach is excellent against heavy rust and prides itself on being easy to use. Once you remove the object from the white vinegar, the rest is child’s play!

4. The lemon and salt trick

Sel et citron – Source : spm

To remove rust, you can also use lemon and salt as a great cleaning duo. With the natural acidity of lemon and the slight abrasiveness of salt, this trick is definitely worth trying:

1. Sprinkle a generous amount of coarse salt (1 tablespoon should often be enough) in the rust-prone area;
2. Cut a lemon in half and squeeze drops of juice onto the layer of salt;
3. After about fifteen or even thirty minutes, scrub the area with a clean scouring sponge. The result is not there or is not conclusive enough? Do not hesitate to repeat the process until you are satisfied;
4. Let sit for 1-2 hours;
5. Rinse, dry and enjoy. If all goes well, the rust should disappear.

Oh yes ! don’t get rid of the lemon peels because they can be useful to you for many things!

Small rust spots covering your knives? The lemon and salt duo is definitely worth trying. Of course, there is no need to tell you that you have to wear protective gloves even if that is exactly what we have just done…Also, prefer to work on a flat surface to reduce accidents.
Note, however, that as with baking soda, it is better to use this tip for moderate or light traces of rust.

5. The citric acid technique

A product naturally contained in lemons, citric acid is an essential part of household maintenance and proves to be an excellent anti-rust product! So he’s definitely a strong contender.

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1. Prepare a bowl filled with one to two inches of clear water;
2. Dissolve 3 tablespoons of citric acid in water then stir;
3. Soak rust-prone item in bowl and let sit overnight;
4. The next day, use steel wool to scrub and remove the traces of rust still present on the metal object. If all goes well, the rust should magically disappear!
5. Just rinse and dry before admiring a streak-free surface.

Although the acidity of the product is recommended in many cases of household tasks, avoid using it on surfaces that contain paint. Citric acid is likely to remove it.

As you can see, these are grandmother’s tips that are easy to put into practice. With them, your metal objects find a second youth and this, without spending too much!

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