Outdoor garden tools, kitchen knives, and various metal items are prone to rust, especially when exposed to the elements. Knowing how to remove rust not only improves their functionality and longevity but also enhances their appearance. Fortunately, tackling surface rust requires just a bit of time and effort.
If you’re dealing with surface rust, there’s no need to worry, as several methods can effectively eliminate it. While chemical rust removers are available in hardware stores, you can also turn to common household items like baking soda, lemon juice, vinegar, and soda for rust removal. Learning these techniques will leave your tools, whether it’s a wrench or an expensive chef’s knife, looking as good as new.
Understanding the causes of rust
Ferrous metals like cast iron, carbon steel, and wrought iron, which are commonly used in household items such as knives, skillets, garden tools, and more, can succumb to corrosion when neglected or improperly cleaned.
The reddish-brown rust forms due to the incompatibility of ferrous metals with acidic substances, water, and oxygen. If left untreated, rust can persist and worsen, making rust removal a time-consuming task that demands significant effort.
Preventing rust is key to maintaining metal objects
Avoiding prolonged exposure to water is crucial, so be sure to dry your garden tools, wipe down knives, and store metal items in a dry area with low humidity.
Regularly wash and dry kitchen knives promptly, avoiding leaving them in the sink or using the dishwasher. Applying protective coatings, such as mineral oil for pocket knives or paste wax and WD-40 for tools and lawn equipment, can further deter rust formation.
What’s the best way to remove rust at home?
White Vinegar Method
White vinegar is a versatile solution for tackling rust on various metal items. For small items like pliers, soak them in a jar of white vinegar for a few minutes, then scrape away the rust. For larger objects like shovels, pour white vinegar on the rusted areas, let it sit, and then brush off the rust.
For heavily rusted tools or knives, submerge them in a bowl of white vinegar overnight, scrub with steel wool, a scouring pad, or a wire brush, and repeat if necessary. Clean with mild dish soap and water after rust removal.
Baking Soda Method
Baking soda is effective for light rust stains on thin metal items. Create a thick paste by mixing baking soda with water, apply it to the rusted metal, and let it sit for an hour. Scrub with steel wool, a scouring pad, or a wire brush, rinse off the paste with water, and repeat if needed. Dry thoroughly.
Lemon and Salt Method
Combine the acidity of fresh lemon juice with the abrasiveness of salt to remove rust. Cover rusted areas with salt, squeeze fresh lemon juice over it, and let it sit for two hours.
Use the lemon rind as a scrubber, and for stubborn stains, use steel wool, a scouring pad, or a wire brush. Rinse off the residue, and dry the metal item thoroughly.
Dish Soap and Salted Potato Method
Surprisingly, a potato can treat rust due to its oxalic acid content. Slice a potato in half, apply dish soap to the cut section, sprinkle with salt (or baking soda), and use it as a mild abrasive to scrub rusted areas. Rinse and dry well. Best for metal pieces without intricate detailing.
Citric Acid Method
Citric acid, available in health food stores, effectively removes rust but may also strip paint and coatings. Mix three tablespoons of citric acid with hot water, submerge rusty metal objects overnight, then scrub off dissolved rust with steel wool, a scouring pad, or a wire brush. Dry thoroughly. Note: Avoid using this method on painted surfaces.
