How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel Appliances

Stainless steel appliances are a great investment, as long as they're kept up.

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When you buy stainless steel, you don't expect it to rust. In fact, most warranties don't cover rust. However, search the Internet and you'll find tons of questions and complaints about rust on these uber-expensive appliances. You'll also find that most manufacturers are unwilling to help. There are a few things you can do.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Baking soda
Soft toothbrush
Paper towels
Water

Step1

Dip a moist, soft toothbrush in a box of baking soda. Very gently, in the direction of the stainless grain, rub back and forth on the appliance. The mild abrasive action will get into the grain without damaging it. If you're a bit neurotic like a certain eHow author, you can use your finger (instead of a toothbrush) for even better results. But you must have more patience, or OCD. Or, even better: both.

Step2

Rinse the baking soda off with a warm, damp (not wet) paper towel. Dry thoroughly. You may see or smell rust on the paper towel or toothbrush. Great! That means it's working!

Step3

Finally, dry the appliance thoroughly. You don't want to leave any water that could cause more rust. You won't believe the difference!

Step4

To really see the difference, start with one half of the appliance: one refrigerator door, or the top part of the oven, etc. Step back and admire your work. I was astounded at how new the side I did turned out. Drop me a comment and let me know how YOURS turns out!

Tips & Warnings

Keep appliances clean. Grease and grime provide moisture that makes rust reappear in a heartbeat.

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Comments

jskelly93 said

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on 9/6/2008 It worked great but I am worried about the rust coming back. Would you recommend just protecting it with stainless steel cleaner on a regular basis or is there something else that can be used?

NancyB said

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on 7/7/2008 I looked all around for something that was safe to use for removing rust from stainless steel appliances. The only thing that worked, and worked really well, was Naval Jelly. You can get it at Lowes, Home Depot, Ace, etc. Use a lot and leave it on for at least 5 mins. and then wipe it off. I have Frigidaire appliances that were not very expensive and most likely low quality stainless and they were not damaged in the process. I tried from vinegar to expensive commercial grade cleaners and Naval Jelly was the only thing that worked to remove rust...no elbow grease required either!