How to Remove Rust From Beer Cans

To the beer collector, there's nothing as exciting as the search for a rare can. Often the rarest cans are found in some of the most challenging conditions--old dumps, ditches along country roads or around abandoned houses. Not the sort of places that are conducive to preserving the can for posterity. When you discover a rusty can, use a simple, proven method to remove the rust and bring the can back to life.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Oxalic acid Rubber gloves Large bucket Old toothbrush White-cotton rags

1. Mix a solution of oxalic acid and hot water in a large bucket. Use 1 cup of acid (8 oz.) and 2 gallons of water. Wear rubber gloves when preparing the mixture and working with it.

2. Rinse your beer cans with clean water, then submerge them in the solution. If you're putting in multiple cans, leave space around each can.

3. Let the cans soak for two to three hours. Leave the cans in the solution longer if they're heavily rusted. Remove the cans and scrub them with an old, soft toothbrush under a steady stream of running water.

4. Wipe the cans with a soft, dry, white-cotton cloth, and sit out to dry completely.

5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 if the can has a heavy coat of rust.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the solution out of direct sunlight when soaking the cans.
• The acid solution is fairly mild, but protect yourself by wearing old clothes, rubber gloves and eye protection when working with it.

References

• Beer Can Collecting; Cady; 1981

Resources

• Beer Can Collectors of America