How to Fix Chrome Rust
Chrome is a commonly used plating process that gives a highly reflective finish to metal objects. Chrome plating is used on everything from car wheels and bumpers to bathroom faucets. Though chrome is pretty durable, it can rust if moisture is allowed to stay on it. Eventually, this will cause the chrome to flake and pit, which requires that the piece be re-chromed. However, minor rust can be removed from chrome.
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Things You'll Need
- Soap and water
- Metal polish
- Terrycloth towels
- White vinegar
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
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1
Wash the chrome item thoroughly with soap and water. Dry it with a clean, lint-free terrycloth towel so that you can get a good idea of where the problem areas are.
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2
Polish the chrome with a high quality metal polish like Gord's. Place a small amount of the polish on a clean rag, and work it into the rusted areas, buffing and polishing the rust out.
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3
Scrub the rusted areas with steel wool. After using the rag, place a small amount of polish on a piece of very fine steel wool. Gently rub the steel wool into the rusted areas, particularly areas that have minor pitting. Rinse the loosened rust and excess polish off with water. Dry the chrome.
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4
Remove the remaining rust with white vinegar and aluminum foil. Fold the foil into a hand-sized square and then soak the foil in the vinegar. Rub the foil and the vinegar over the rusted areas with the foil in the palm of your hand.
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5
Polish the chrome again with the metal polish, using a clean, dry rag to buff out the shine.
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Tips & Warnings
If the rust has worked its way into the chrome and caused it to flake and pit, the piece will probably have to be re-chromed or replaced for the best appearance.
