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How to Get Rust Stains Out of Clothes

Melynda Sorrels

Rust is the chemical reaction that takes place between iron and water. This reddish color corrosion slowly eats through metal surfaces, causing damage. While getting rust on your clothes isn't detrimental, it's a different kind of problem as rust stains are notoriously stubborn.

Rusted metal

With the right materials, rust stains are easy to fix.

Tip

Read the care instructions on the tag carefully as not all types of fabrics can withstand very hot water.

  1. Mix cream of tartar and table salt in equal parts with hot water into a paste and rub it into the stained area with a clean cloth or soft bristle brush. Allow the mixture to sit on the stain for at least 15 minutes before laundering.

  2. Cut a lemon in half and rub it all over the affected area until it is saturated with lemon juice. Sprinkle salt onto the stain and work it into the fibers with a soft clean cloth. Place the garment outside in the sunshine for 2 or 3 hours and launder as usual.

  3. Dampen the area and rub cream of tartar into the stain with a clean cloth or soft bristle brush. Allow the garment to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before laundering as usual.

  4. Rub white vinegar onto the stain with a clean cloth or sponge and allow it to soak for 30 minutes before laundering as usual.

  5. Place rhubarb stalks into a pot of boiling water and allow them to boil for at least 20 minute. Remove the stalks and take the pot off the heat. Place the garment in the water and allow it to soak until the rust stains are no longer visible and launder as usual.

The Drip Cap

  • Rust is the chemical reaction that takes place between iron and water.
  • With the right materials, rust stains are easy to fix.
  • Rub white vinegar onto the stain with a clean cloth or sponge and allow it to soak for 30 minutes before laundering as usual.