To remove rust from stainless steel effectively, several safe and accessible methods can be used, often involving common household items:
Recommended Methods for Removing Rust from Stainless Steel
- Baking Soda Paste
Mix about 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 2 cups of water to form a paste. Apply this to the rusted area and gently rub with a soft cloth or a toothbrush. Rinse and wipe dry. Baking soda is non-abrasive and won’t damage the stainless steel surface
- White Vinegar
Spray or apply undiluted white vinegar to the rust spots. The acetic acid in vinegar helps break down rust. Wipe with a soft cloth after a few minutes and rinse with water
- Lemon Juice and Baking Soda Paste
Combine equal parts lemon juice and baking soda to make a paste. Apply it to the rust, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then scrub gently with a sponge. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Lemon juice’s acidity aids in rust removal
- WD-40
Spray WD-40 on the rusted area, let it sit for 10 minutes, then wipe away with a cloth. This method works well for exterior stainless steel surfaces but avoid using WD-40 on food-contact surfaces since it is not food-safe
- Potato and Dish Soap
Cut a raw potato in half, apply dish soap to the cut side, and rub it on the rusted area following the grain of the metal. Let it sit for several hours before rinsing. The oxalic acid in potatoes helps dissolve rust
- Cream of Tartar and Vinegar Paste
Mix cream of tartar with distilled white vinegar to form a paste. Apply, rub gently, let it sit for 5 minutes, then rinse. This is another mild acid-based treatment
Important Tips
- Avoid abrasive tools like steel wool or wire brushes on stainless steel as they can scratch the surface and worsen rusting
- Do not use cleaners containing chlorides, fluorine, iodine, or bromine, which can damage stainless steel
- Always follow the grain of the stainless steel when scrubbing to prevent scratches
These methods are effective for light to moderate rust stains and help restore stainless steel surfaces without compromising their integrity
