How Do I Clean the Rust Out of a Vintage Enamel Coffee Pot?

Get as much loose rust off as you can. Start by removing large flakes with a soft sponge and dish soap. Soak the sponge with water, then squeeze it out most of the way and add a few drops of dish soap. Rub gently on the rusted areas in circles. Use an old toothbrush to get into crevices.

Rinse with clean water to remove any leftover soap, then pat dry with a clean cloth or rag. Rinse out the sponge and toothbrush to avoid staining them.

Mix two tablespoons baking soda with two tablespoons white vinegar. Spread the paste on the rusted areas and let it sit for a few minutes. Use a scouring pad to rub the paste in circles gently if the surface is metal. If the surface is enamel, use the toothbrush and scrub gently in circles.

Wash out carefully. Rinse with warm water thoroughly to be sure all of the mixture is out of the coffee pot. If rust stains remain, repeat the paste treatment and let it sit longer, up to 15 minutes. Then scrub and rinse.

Dry well. Don't let water or any other liquid sit in the pot; that will only cause more rust. Once it is clean, wipe the pot inside and out with a clean cloth, then dry it upside down. In humid climates, consider drying it thoroughly with a fan or hair dryer.