How to Prevent & Clean Rust Off Metal

PDF download Download Article
How to get rid of rust & make metal look brand new
PDF download Download Article

When metal has rusted, throwing it away and buying a replacement isn't always an option. Luckily, it’s easy to remove rust with various household items or commercial rust removing products. For this article, we interviewed different cleaning specialists to teach you all the best home remedies and commercial methods for removing rust from metal. Plus, learn how to prevent rust in the first place, what causes rust, how to remove rust from other surfaces, and get answers to common questions about removing rust.

How to Get Rust Off Metal

If the metal is very rusty, soak it in white vinegar overnight, then scrub the remaining rust away with steel wool or a scouring pad. If there’s only a small amount of rust, make a paste out of baking soda and water, or scrub the rust away with salt and fresh lemon juice. Alternatively, use a commercial rust remover.

Section 1 of 6:

Removing Rust with Household Remedies

PDF download Download Article
  1. White vinegar reacts with rust to effectively dissolve it off of most metals. If the rusty item is small enough, soak it in a bowl or bucket of white vinegar overnight. If the item is too large to soak, pour the vinegar directly onto the rust and let it sit for a few hours. Then, scrub the rust off with a scouring pad , wire brush , or steel wool . [1]
    • Another option is to wrap the object in rags soaked in vinegar then wipe the rust away.
    • If steel wool is too abrasive, try dipping aluminum foil in the vinegar and using it as a brush to scrub off the rust.
    • Don’t use this method on painted surfaces, as the vinegar may damage the finish.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    If the item isn’t too rusty or is made of thin metal (like knives), mix some baking soda with enough water to create a thick paste. Spread it on the metal and let it sit for at least an hour. Then, scrub the paste and the rust off with a metal brush, steel wool, or an old toothbrush. Rinse the metal with water and dry it thoroughly. [2]
    • The baking soda mixture can be watered down as much as you would like, there is no exact recipe.
    • Another option is to rinse the metal with water and sprinkle plain baking soda onto the rust. Let it sit for about an hour, then scour it with steel wool.
    • In general, cleaning expert Dario Ragnolo says baking soda is a great way to remove rust from appliances: “There are different ways to remove rust from appliances, depending also by how bad the rust is. A mix of baking soda and water with the use of a brusher will help remove the rust. Also, a more aggressive way is to use a product that has oxalic acid in it.” [3]
    • Cleaning expert James Sears recommends a baking soda and vinegar paste to remove rust from pots and pans: “Wash the pots and pans with hot water and let [them] soak in white vinegar, which is acidic. Empty the liquids from the pan and sprinkle baking soda to make a baking soda paste. Scrub this baking soda paste over the rusted areas with the hard side of the sponge.” [4]
    Advertisement
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    Potatoes contain oxalic acid, which can dissolve rust. Cut a potato in half, cover the cut section with dish soap, and sprinkle some salt (or baking soda) on it—the salt acts as a mild abrasive to help scrape off the rust. Rub the rusted area with the potato until the rust is removed. [5]
    • To reapply, simply cut off the used end of the potato and add more soap.
    • This method works well for metal without detailing or relief work.
    • If you have a rusty knife, simply stick it in a potato and leave it there for a few hours.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    Lemons contain acids that help dissolve rust, while salt acts as an abrasive to scrub it away. Sprinkle some salt over the rusted area so that it’s thoroughly coated. Then, squeeze fresh lemon (or lime) juice on top. Let the mixture sit for about 2 hours, then use the lemon rind to scrub away the rust. [6]
    • In most cases, the lemon rind will be strong enough to remove the rust without damaging the metal. If the rust is stubborn, however, try using steel wool or a scouring pad.
    • Alternatively, make a paste by combining 2 parts baking soda with 1 part lemon juice. Apply the paste to the rust and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before scrubbing it away.
  5. In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup (118 ml) baking soda, 1/4 cup (59 ml) vinegar, and 2 tbsp (29 ml) lemon or lime juice. Use a cloth or an old toothbrush to apply the mixture to the rust and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, rub the toothbrush in a circular motion to remove the paste and the rust. Repeat as necessary, then rinse and dry the painted metal. [7]
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    Add 2-3 tbsp of citric acid to a bowl of hot water. Submerge any unpainted, rusty objects in the solution and leave them overnight. Then, scrub away the dissolved rust with steel wool or a wire brush and dry the surface thoroughly. [8]
    • Find citric acid in health food stores or in the baking aisle of many supermarkets.
    • Citric acid is known to remove paint and other coatings, which is why you shouldn’t use it on painted metal.
  7. Create a paste by mixing 1 part cream of tartar with 4 parts distilled white vinegar. Apply the paste to the rusty area and let it sit for at least 5 minutes. Then, scrub the paste and the rust with a soft-bristle brush. Rinse the metal and dry it thoroughly. [9]
  8. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    Rub the rusted area on stainless steel with a very fine grain sandpaper, using a circular motion. Then, rub the surface down with a slice of onion—onions contain amino acid sulfoxides that help break down rust. Finish by rinsing the surface with hot water. [10]
    • This method may work for other types of metal, as well, but it is particularly useful for removing rust from stainless steel .
    • If you’re attempting to remove rust from a stainless steel knife, try simply running the knife through an onion.
    • Ragnolo says vinegar is also effective on stainless steel, “especially if you have a small object or something you can submerge in white vinegar. After a couple of minutes, remove [the stainless steel] from the vinegar and brush off the rust with an old toothbrush.” [11]
  9. Pour a liter of diesel (actual diesel, not the fuel additive) into a can large enough to hold your rusty tools. Place the tools (like stuck pliers, screwed items, etc.) into the can of diesel and let them soak for a day. Then, remove the tools and scrub them with a brush or steel wool to remove the rust. [12]
    • When you’re done, put the lid back on the diesel and use it again for future rusty tools.
  10. Coca-Cola (and other colas) contains a small amount of phosphoric acid, which can dissolve rust. Because the amount of acid is so small, however, it takes longer to remove rust than other methods. Soak your rusted metal in some cola for up to 24 hours, then scrub away the remaining rust. Be sure to clean and rinse the metal well, afterward, as it will be sticky from the cola. [13]
  11. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    This method requires a lot more elbow grease, but in some cases, you can effectively remove rust by simply scraping it off. Use tools from your garage like a screwdriver, or rent tools from a local hardware store. Steel wool, for example, is easy to use and is something you may already have in your home. [14]
    • Use an electric sander to remove rust on large pieces. Always start with the roughest grain and slowly move to finer grains to minimize the roughness of the metal.
    • Any metal tool can be used to scrape metal, but use a fine grain sandpaper afterwards to try to remove any marks the scraping may have made.
    • Car expert Evan Ernst says that steel wool is great for removing light rust from chrome: “A really fine mesh steel wool can polish chrome, and, in the same way, it also can remove really light surface rust. If there's a lot of rust, [though], that's not going to be a good option.” [15]
    12. Advertisement
Section 2 of 6:

Removing Rust with Commercial Products

PDF download Download Article
  1. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    Chemical rust removers often contain hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, and sulfuric acid, which help dissolve rust. Follow the directions for your rust-removal product, as application may vary. In general, though, these products can be applied by brush or as a bath. Once the product has set for the required amount of time, scrub it away, then rinse and dry the metal’s surface. [16]
    • Warning: Because of the acids they contain, these products can be harmful to skin. Wear protective gear, like gloves, and always take precautions when using a chemical to dissolve rust.
    • Don’t use aggressive chemicals on delicate appliances or surfaces.
    • Some popular chemical rust removers include the Engineer Rust Remover ZC-28 and Rust-Oleum Rust Dissolver Gel .
    • If you’re specifically looking to remove rust from your bathtub, cleaning specialist Eduardo Peralta says, “First apply an acidic toilet bowl cleaner that cleans lime & rust, hard water, and calcium for 5-15 minutes, making sure it covers all [rusty] areas. Scrub and rinse with soap. If rust persists, a magic eraser might also clean it off.” [17]
    EXPERT TIP

    Dario Ragnolo

    House Cleaning Professional
    Dario Ragnolo is the Owner and Founder of Tidy Town Cleaning, a home cleaning service in Los Angeles, California. His business specializes in residential & commercial cleaning. He is a second generation home cleaning expert, who grew up around his parents cleaning business in Italy.
    Dario Ragnolo
    House Cleaning Professional

    Use CLR to remove stubborn rust from stainless steel. Apply CLR to stainless steel or other surfaces and appliances that are not delicate, as it is an aggressive product. Sometimes, however, rust is too deep inside the steel that it is not possible to remove.

  2. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    Rust converters work to stop rust from eating away any more of the metal. These products are similar to spray paint and act as a primer for a coat of paint. Rust converters do not remove existing rust, however, and instead just prevent the rust from expanding. [18]
    • This is usually only a good option if you plan on painting over the metal. It will also leave a rough texture under the paint, as you’re essentially just adding a covering to the rust.
  3. Powder cleansers are gentle enough not to damage surfaces while still being tough enough to remove significant patches of rust. Follow your cleanser’s instructions to apply it correctly, but in general, sprinkle some on a wet, rusted surface so the oxalic acid can break up the stain. [19]
    • A popular powder cleanser is Bar Keepers Friend .
    • Choose a cleanser with a spray setting for spots of rust or a foam setting to cover a larger area.
  4. WD-40 is a gentle but strong method for removing rust. The brand makes a specialized product called WD-40 Rust Remover Soak that quickly dissolves rust and restores metal surfaces without scraping or scrubbing. Apply the product directly to the rust and let it sit for a couple hours to overnight depending on how stubborn the rust is.
    5. Advertisement
Section 3 of 6:

How to Prevent Rust

PDF download Download Article
  1. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    One of the best and easiest ways to avoid rust is to keep your metal tools and surfaces away from water. Metal is more likely to rust if water has time to soak into its surface or if it frequently comes in contact with water over time. Store your metal in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup, and if a metal surface does get wet, dry it thoroughly afterwards. [20]
  2. Remember to clean your metal tools and surfaces after you use them. The best way to clean metal varies from surface to surface, but in general, using water and a mild dish soap works well. This helps keep your metal in good shape, as neglected metal is more likely to develop rust. Just remember to dry the items thoroughly after you wash them. [21]
    • If you don’t use your metal object often, clean it every month or so to make sure it isn’t developing rust. It may be necessary to clean objects more often if they’re exposed to the elements; just keep an eye on them and clean them if you notice visible dirt or dust.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    Applying a protective coating is a great way to prevent rust from forming on metal surfaces. The type of coating you need depends on the object. For example, apply a bit of mineral oil to a pocket knife, or treat tools and lawn equipment with paste wax or WD-40. Whatever product you use, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to apply it correctly. [22]
    • Paint also serves as a protective coating. If you plan on painting your metal, first apply a paint primer to keep moisture away from the surface. Then, apply a high quality paint for the best results.
    • Adding a protective coating also helps prevent cracks and scratches, which allow moisture to seep deeper inside the metal.
    4. Advertisement
Section 4 of 6:

What causes rust?

PDF download Download Article
  1. Oxidation is a process in which iron-containing metal reacts with oxygen and water. The oxidation process eats away at the metal and causes visible rust on the metal’s surface. Rust typically occurs when a metal surface gets wet and is not cleaned and dried properly. [23]
Section 5 of 6:

Removing Rust from Other Surfaces

PDF download Download Article
  1. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    If you get rust on your clothes, remove the residue by applying a bit of lemon juice to the affected area. [24] Do not allow the juice to dry. Then, rinse the juice and rust away with water, then wash the garment as you normally would.
    • For heavier fabrics or particularly large rust stains, apply a bit of salt to the area in addition to the lemon juice.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    Mix together 7 parts lime-free glycerin , 1 part sodium citrate , 6 parts lukewarm water, and enough powdered calcium carbonate (chalk) to create a thick paste. Spread the paste over the rust-stained area and leave it to harden. When it does, use a metal tool to scrape it off. [25]
    • If the stain has not been fully removed, repeat the process.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Remove Rust from Metal
    Create a paste by mixing Borax and lemon juice together, then spread it over the rusted area. Scrub the mixture and the rust off with a pumice stone , then reapply as necessary until all the rust is gone. Dry the ceramic or porcelain afterwards to prevent new rust from forming. [26]
    • Don’t use this method on ceramic cookware, as it will likely scrape and damage the material.
    4. Advertisement
Section 6 of 6:

Removing Rust FAQs

PDF download Download Article
  1. In most cases, the easiest and quickest way to remove rust from metal is to use a store-bought chemical rust remover. These are specifically designed to remove rust; just be sure to apply them according to their instructions, as some may only work for certain types of metal. [27]
  2. In general, vinegar, baking soda, or a mixture of the two are the best homemade rust removers. Vinegar breaks down the rust particles, while baking soda acts as an abrasive to scrub the rust away. [28]
  3. Because different metals have different chemical makeups, some of them rust while others do not. Some examples of metals that do not rust include brass, aluminum, bronze, copper, titanium, gold, silver, and platinum. However, these metals may still corrode, tarnish, or become discolored. [29]
  4. 4
    What’s the difference between tarnish and rust? Tarnish and rust are both types of discoloration that affect metals, but they usually affect different types of metals. Rust is an iron oxide, meaning it usually affects metals that contain iron, and is usually reddish in color. Tarnish can be found on many types of metals (including silver and copper) and is often black, gray, or even green in color. [30]
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What's a good home remedy for cleaning rust off of metal?
    James Sears
    House Cleaning Professional
    James Sears leads the customer happiness team at Neatly, a group of cleaning gurus based in Los Angeles and Orange County, California. James and the team have nine years of experience and offer green cleaning, interior and exterior window washing, and general apartment cleaning services. He provides transformative cleaning experiences by reducing clutter and renewing your home environment. James is a Trustee Scholar at the University of Southern California.
    James Sears
    House Cleaning Professional
    Expert Answer
    You can always mix white vinegar and baking soda with some hot water to make a cleaning paste. Scrub whatever you're cleaning with a sponge to help lift the rust.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 15 Helpful 5
  • Question
    What substance removes rust from metal?
    James Sears
    House Cleaning Professional
    James Sears leads the customer happiness team at Neatly, a group of cleaning gurus based in Los Angeles and Orange County, California. James and the team have nine years of experience and offer green cleaning, interior and exterior window washing, and general apartment cleaning services. He provides transformative cleaning experiences by reducing clutter and renewing your home environment. James is a Trustee Scholar at the University of Southern California.
    James Sears
    House Cleaning Professional
    Expert Answer
    White vinegar will remove rust from metal. You could also mix a paste of baking soda and water and use that to remove rust from metal.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 18 Helpful 8
  • Question
    How long does it take vinegar to remove rust?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    If there's just a thin coating of rust, it may not take longer than half an hour. For more severely rusted items, you may need to let it soak for several hours or a full day.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 19
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Read Video Transcript

      Tips

      • In cases of very light rust, try applying some ketchup to the stain. Let it sit for a while before wiping it away. [31]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Use vinegar or dish soap to clean rust from jewelry, like necklaces , rings, etc.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • If your metal item is an antique or is otherwise valuable, talk to an expert before attempting to remove the rust yourself.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • When using the baking soda method, don't let it soak overnight. This may tarnish your metal or turn it brown.
      • Soak your rusted metal items in Coca-Cola to scrub the rust off easily!
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Remove Rust and Corrosion
      How to
      Remove Rust from Chrome
      How to
      Remove Rust from a Car
      How to
      Remove Rust Stains from Paint
      How to
      Remove a Dent from a Stainless Steel Refrigerator
      How to
      Polish Gold the Right Way
      How to
      Clean Sterling Silver
      How to
      Clean & Polish Silver with Baking Soda & Aluminum
      How to
      Wash a Pipe or Bong with Alcohol and Salt
      How to
      Clean Oxidized Silver
      How to
      Polish Metal
      How to
      Clean Stainless Steel Cutlery
      How to
      Clean Chrome and Remove Rust Without Expensive Cleaners
      A Guide to Cleaning Silver with Baking Soda
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/cleaning-rust-off-metal
      2. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/za/in-the-home/how-to-clean-remove-rust.html
      3. ↑ Dario Ragnolo. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 13 August 2019.
      4. ↑ James Sears. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 28 August 2019.
      5. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/cleaning-rust-off-metal
      6. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/za/in-the-home/how-to-clean-remove-rust.html
      7. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/cleaning-rust-off-metal
      8. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/cleaning-rust-off-metal
      9. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/testing-out-homemade-rust-removers.html
      1. ↑ https://www.fcs.uga.edu/%E2%80%8Bextension/stain-removal-iron-rust
      2. ↑ Dario Ragnolo. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 13 August 2019.
      3. ↑ https://interestingengineering.com/how-to/6-best-ways-remove-rust-home
      4. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/testing-out-homemade-rust-removers.html
      5. ↑ https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/conservation-preservation-publications/canadian-conservation-institute-notes/mechanical-removal-rust-machined-ferrous-surface.html
      6. ↑ Evan Ernst. Classic Automotive Enthusiast. Expert Interview. 9 January 2024.
      7. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/cleaning-rust-off-metal
      8. ↑ Eduardo Peralta. House Cleaning Specialist. Expert Interview. 29 October 2021.
      9. ↑ https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/tools/g2312/best-liquid-rust-removers-test/
      10. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-rust-from-tools/
      11. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-rust-from-tools/
      12. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-rust-from-tools/
      13. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/tools/21166221/how-to-remove-rust-from-tools
      14. ↑ https://van.physics.illinois.edu/ask/listing/494
      15. ↑ https://www.fcs.uga.edu/%E2%80%8Bextension/stain-removal-iron-rust
      16. ↑ https://www.fcs.uga.edu/%E2%80%8Bextension/stain-removal-iron-rust
      17. ↑ https://www.gsa.gov/real-estate/historic-preservation/historic-preservation-policy-tools/preservation-tools-resources/technical-procedures/methods-of-removing-rust-stains-from-ceramic-tile
      18. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/za/in-the-home/how-to-clean-remove-rust.html
      19. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/za/in-the-home/how-to-clean-remove-rust.html
      20. ↑ https://www.metaltek.com/blog/what-is-rust-and-how-to-prevent-it/
      21. ↑ https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/training-learning/in-person-workshops/understanding-silver-tarnish.html
      22. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/testing-out-homemade-rust-removers.html

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To remove rust from small metal items, first fill a container with undiluted white vinegar. Then, drop the item into the vinegar and let it soak anywhere from 10 minutes to 6 hours depending on how rusty it is. After it soaks, put on a pair of rubber gloves and scrub the metal with steel wool or a stiff-bristled brush. The rust should come off easily after soaking in the vinegar. Finally, rinse the metal under a stream of warm water to neutralize the acid in the vinegar. If there’s still some discoloration, put the metal in a resealable plastic bag with 1 to 2 cups (180-360 g) of baking soda and some water. Let it soak for 10 minutes before rinsing it again. To remove rust from large metal items, you can use an acidic rust-removal chemical treatment. First, put on a pair of rubber gloves, a dust mask, and some protective eyewear. Working with rust-removal chemicals can be dangerous, so make sure you take the proper safety precautions. Fill a plastic container with a little bit of your rust remover. Then, dip a natural brush in the chemical and carefully apply it to the rust. Wait 10 to 15 minutes, then scrape the rust off with a putty knife. Finally, rinse the metal off with water and wipe it dry before painting or waterproofing it. Read the article to learn more ways you can remove rust from metal, like using baking soda and a toothbrush!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 5,375,729 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Elaine Magson

        Jun 25, 2020

        "A rusty chain collar (for a dog) that had been allowed to get wet and abandoned. I had despaired! After several ..." more
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement