How to Get Rid of Rust on Shower Faucets

Remove rust from faucets at first sight so it doesn't spread.

Rust may form on your shower faucets from iron deposits in the water. This reddish-brown crust that forms on your faucets is unsightly and will spread further if left untreated. Clean rust from your shower faucets the right way to ensure you get rid of the problem without scratching or damaging the faucets in the process. A variety of household products, as well as some commercial products, will effectively get rid of the rust.

Things You'll Need

• 2 tbsp. borax powder
• Bowl
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice
• Spoon
• Soft cloths
• Paper towels
• White vinegar
• Commercial rust remover

Instructions

1. Put 2 tbsp. borax powder into a bowl. Add 1 tbsp. lemon juice and stir to make a paste.

2. Spread the paste over the rusty spots on the faucet. Leave it for a few hours to dry.

3. Scrub the faucet with a soft cloth to remove the loosened rust. Rinse well with water.

4. Soak paper towels in white vinegar. Lay the paper towels over any remaining rust spots. Let the paper towels sit on the rust spots for several hours until they are dry.

5. Wipe down the faucet with a dry cloth to remove the remaining rust. Rinse well with water.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply a commercial rust remover that contains trisodium phosphate or oxalic acid if the rust is persistent. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for using the product.

• Always test the product you are using in a small spot of the faucet first to check for any damage to the finish. Let the cleaning solution sit on the inconspicuous spot for 10 minutes before applying it throughout.

References

• North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service; Removing Mineral Deposits From Household Surfaces; Sandra A. Zaslow; March 1996
• Old House Web: Removing Rust or Iron Stains from Bathroom Fixtures
• Mrs. Clean: How to Remove Rust Stains