How to Remove Rust Stains From a Plastic Sink

Vinegar is great for cleaning rust.

Rust stains on a plastic sink can be difficult to remove. Since plastic is porous, the rust often lies just below the surface. And, to exacerbate the problem, many rust removers on the market are designed to be used with metal, stone and cement. When applied to plastic, these products may eat away at the plastic and permanently disfigure the sink. Therefore natural cleansers are best for removing rust stains from plastic sinks.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Water
• Rag
• Bucket

Instructions

1. Mix a solution that is 2 parts vinegar, 1 part water.

2. Saturate a rag in the vinegar solution.

3. Place the soaked rag over the rust stain and allow it to sit for 15 minutes.

4. Check on the stain's progress. Lift the rag and attempt to scrub the stain away. If the vinegar has not yet done its job, re-soak the rag and soak it again for 30 more minutes. Continue checking and scrubbing until the stain is gone.

5. Scrub then wipe the area with a rag soaked in clean water.

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer chemical cleansers, you can replace vinegar with a product like CLR (Calcium Lime Rust), Rust-Away or Non-Acid Rust Remover, which may be safe to use on some plastic surfaces. Before using these, test them on an inconspicuous area of the sink to make sure that they are safe to use.

References

• Natural Healthy Home Cleaning: Cleaning With Vinegar
• Vinegar Tips: Cleaning with Vinegar
• Mrs. Clean: Stain Removal Tips