How to Remove Rust From Linoleum Floors

Linoleum flooring is actually composed mostly of linseed oil.

Linoleum floors are generally easy to maintain and hold up well against usual wear and tear. This is because linoleum is made from natural materials that maintain their appearance as they age. However, linoleum is not impervious to rust stains. Moisture or condensation on metal appliances or furniture can result in a transfer of rust onto the linoleum. Fortunately, removing the rust shouldn't be a problem, as linoleum is fairly easy to clean.

Things You'll Need

• Mop
• Bucket
• Vinegar
• Baking soda
• Nylon brush
• Linoleum floor wax

Instructions

1. Fill a bucket with warm water and dampen your mop. Go over the rust stains with the damp mop first and scrub lightly. This is the least abrasive method you can attempt in cleaning the linoleum floor. It will prevent any wax from being stripped away. If the rust stains do not come out with a mop alone, you'll need to proceed to the steps below.

2. Purchase a nylon brush if you don't own one. The brushes can be found at most department stores or supermarkets. Use the brush to lightly buff the rust stains on the linoleum. Do not use a great deal of pressure or scrub too harshly, as this may scratch the linoleum.

3. Combine approximately one-half cup of vinegar with one gallon of water if the stains remain even after buffing with the nylon brush. Mix the water and vinegar in your bucket and mop the rust stains with the solution.

4. Form a scouring paste as a last resort. Mix roughly two tablespoons of baking soda with two tablespoons of vinegar and apply the paste to the rust stains. Allow the paste to remain on the stain for three to five minutes then scrub lightly with the nylon brush. Continue until the rust stains have been completely removed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you buff the linoleum with a nylon brush, mop with vinegar or use a scouring paste, you will need to wax the affected linoleum. Purchase a floor wax specifically designed for linoleum floors and apply it according to the directions on the label. Also keep the linoleum waxed in order to prevent future stains.

• Consider placing felt or plastic covers on any of the metal parts of furniture or appliances that come in contact with the linoleum. Not only will this help prevent rust stains from appearing, it should also reduce the risk of scratching.

References

• Mrs. Clean: How to Clean Linoleum Floors
• Natural Healthy Home Cleaning Tips: Vinegar and Baking Soda Cleaning Recipes