How to Get a Rust Stain From a Sink Drain

Clean your sink weekly with vinegar to reduce rust buildup.

Moisture from the air and water oxidizes metal, causing rust stains to form. Typically exposed to water daily, sink drains are prime targets for rust. Use acids, such as vinegar and oxalic acid, to remove rust. Vinegar is a good overall cleaner for the entire sink, while oxalic acid is a more potent acid, reserved for particularly stubborn rust. It is highly corrosive and toxic, so use it with extra care.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Paper towels
• Fine steel wool

Instructions

1. Pour vinegar on a paper towel to moisten it thoroughly. Set the paper towel over the drain so it is in contact with the rust stain. Wait 30 minutes.

2. Remove and discard the paper towel. Rinse the sink.

3. Rub any remaining rust stains with a steel wool pad. Rinse again and dry with a paper towel. Don't use steel wool to clean a ceramic sink because it scratches the surface, permanently damaging the sink. Use it on the drain only.

Tips & Warnings

• If vinegar and steel wool technique doesn't remove the stain, try oxalic acid, which is available as crystals at local hardware stores or a pharmacy.

References

• Washington State University Extension: Creative Cleaning Back to Basics
• Colorado State University Extension: Getting Ready for Winter

Resources

• Kansas State University Extension: Clean Kitchen to Prevent Illness