How to Remove Rust Stains From White Clothing

Removing rust stains from clothing using vinegar.

Rust stains are hard to remove using normal washing methods and may eventually set in permanently if not treated right away. Vinegar is a natural method of removing many stains, including rust. Using vinegar in your wash also boosts your normal cleaning aids, prevents colors from bleeding and even removes grease, perspiration, and deodorant stains. It is beneficial for your washing machine as it will remove build up and allow your clothing to rinse detergent easier. Since rust requires special attention, it is best to combine vinegar with salt and use it as a pretreatment along with adding it to your subsequent wash.

Things You'll Need

• 5 gallon bucket
• 2 gallons hot water
• 1 gallon and 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup salt
• Paint Stick
• Gloves

Instructions

1. Mix one gallon of white vinegar and two gallons of hot water in the five gallon bucket using gloves to protect your hands. Stir the vinegar and water with the paint stick until it is completely blended. Combine two cups of salt to the mixture. Mix the salt until it dissolves. When finished, scrape the bottom of the bucket with the paint stick to mix any settled salt. Repeat this process until all salt is off the bottom and has completely dissolved.

2. Immerse rusted garments into the mixture and allow them to soak overnight. If multiple garments have rust stains, only soak four or five per each five gallon bucket. Place the mixture in an area you will not frequent as the vinegar will omit a strong odor. The vinegar and salt will penetrate the rust stain in the white clothing and break it up.

3. Wash your clothing as usual immediately following the vinegar and salt soak. Use your washer's hot water setting to clean and rinse garments of the mixture and stain. Add the half-cup of vinegar to your washer to enhance its performance. Dry clothing using the low tumble setting on your dryer. If any trace of the vinegar remains, wash the clothing once more using only your normal detergent and dry as usual.

Tips & Warnings

• For delicate clothing, use the warm setting on your washer instead of hot. The clothing can then hang on a line to air dry or dry on the lowest setting in your dryer to avoid damage.

References

• Mrs. Clean House Cleaning Specialist: Tips On Removing Rust Stains
• The Ohio State University Information Extension: Family Quick 'n Easy Stain Removal
• Cantina: 131 Uses for Vinegar