- Some rust can be removed just by scraping it off with a steel wool pad or wire brush. This technique removes most of the surface rust from small areas. If rust stains are a little stubborn add a bit of mineral oil to the rust. Let it sit for awhile as the oil is absorbed. Then use steel wool, a scrubbing pad or brush. Don't use this method on fabrics; use it only for items with a hard surface that can withstand the rubbing and scraping of the steel wool or brush.
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Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar are two substances that can remove small amounts of rust. The acids in these products change the chemical composition of the rust and make the rust water soluble so it can be easily removed. Lemons have citric acid and vinegars have ascetic acid. Use a cotton ball to apply the lemon juice or vinegar to the rust stain, not to the entire appliance or fabric. Let stand for five minutes, then wipe with a damp sponge.
Another remedy is to make a paste of lemon juice and salt, which is an abrasive.. After rubbing the paste into the rust stain, rinse with a damp sponge. Lemon juice is also known as a bleach and is useful in removing rust stains from fabrics. - Commercial rust removers are best for large rust stains or stubborn stains that don't respond to other methods. Most rust removers contain a strong acid. These products work in the same way as citric acid and ascetic acid, but the acids in these products are more potent. Acids mostly used in commercial rust removers include phosphoric acid, oxalic acid and hydrofluoric acid. These acids are effective, but also toxic. When using these products have plenty of ventilation and follow instructions carefully. Rust Free and CLR (Calcium Lime Rust Remover) are two examples of these products.
