
Rust can accumulate in a variety of places in your home. You may find rust on your pots and pans, on your sink fixtures, in your sink or bathtub, on your plumbing pipes, and even on a concrete wall. Rust is unsightly, and people typically want to get rid of it when it manifests anywhere in the home. However, according to the National Institutes of Health, certain commercial anti-rust products can be harmful if they are inhaled or ingested. This fact makes natural remedies seem more appealing than ever. Fortunately, there are several natural and effective methods for removing rust in the home. Most of these methods involve environmentally-friendly ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen cupboards.
Baking Soda Paste
To remove rust from a broad array of objects, you might apply baking soda. Baking soda is mildly abrasive, but it can generally be used on objects such as gardening shears, stainless steel sinks, and baking pans (as long as they do not come with a non-stick coating). The best way to apply baking soda to any surface is in the form of a paste. You can combine the baking soda with water to create a thick paste. Once you apply this paste to the rusted area, leave it on the surface for several minutes. Then you can use a small brush, such as a toothbrush, to gently scrub the surface with the paste.
White Vinegar Soak
White vinegar can also be effective in the fight against rust. This simple household vinegar can dissolve rust in a relatively short amount of time. If an object is small enough to place in a bucket or sink, try leaving it immersed in vinegar for an hour or two. If a rusted object is too large to fit in a sink or bucket, try spreading newspapers on the floor and positioning it there. You can pour vinegar onto its surface, or you can apply it generously to the surface with a sponge or rag. Once the object has soaked in vinegar for an hour or two, simply rub the rust off with a rag or sponge. If some rust still adheres to the surface, try applying more vinegar and scrubbing the surface gently with aluminum foil.
Lemon or Lime Juice and Salt
A fragrant way to eradicate rust is to use some salt and the juice of a lemon or lime. Distribute a layer of salt over the rusted surface, and then squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice on the salt. Allow this paste to sit for an hour or two, and then you can use the fruit rind to scrub the rust away from the surface.
Potato Scrubber
By cutting a potato in half, you can create a quick and easy rust removal implement. Potatoes contain oxalic acid, which can be used to rid various surfaces of rust. The most efficient way to scrub off the rust with a potato is to cut the potato in half, dip the inside part of the potato with ordinary dish soap or baking soda, and scrub the rusted surface. You may need to apply soap or baking soda a few times before the rust is thoroughly removed.
Most individuals do not welcome the sight of rust in the home. A good way to prevent much rust from manifesting is to use superior steel products purchased from quality steel dealers. In some cases, rust cannot be prevented. Instead of using potentially harmful chemical products, you can utilize home remedies to get rid of rust.