How to Remove Rust Stains from Clothing or Fabric

Try a natural method to remove rust stains from clothing or fabrics.

Removing rust from clothing and fabric can be done. Sometimes rust gets on clothes or fabric due to hard water in washing machines, rusty areas in dryers or from working on outdoor projects. Before using any commercial products, try using a natural method to get rid of the rust stain.

Things You'll Need

• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Liquid rust remover

Instructions

1. Pour some lemon juice on the stain to saturate it. Add some salt and rub it into the lemon juice.

2. Place the clothing or fabric in the sun and let it sit for 30 minutes.

3. Rinse the lemon juice and salt off the clothing or fabric and inspect it. If the stain appears to be gone, launder as normal.

4. Apply a commercial rust remover if the lemon juice and salt didn't work. Follow manufacturer's instructions.

Tips & Warnings

• Test the rust remover in an inconspicuous area to see how the fabric will react.

• Monitor the clothing or fabric as it sits in the sun. The citric acid in the lemon can bleach any colors.

References

• How to Get Rid of Things: How to Get Rid of Rust Stains
• "Good Housekeeping": Stain Buster -- Rust