Tips for removing rust from tools

There are essential tools, such as scissors, pliers, screwdrivers, etc., in every house. When metal tools are exposed to moisture, they can rust. Rust refers to a reddish-brown layer on a metal surface, which develops in the presence of air and water. Rusty tools may not function effectively and may have to be discarded. However, there are simple DIY techniques to remove rust from tools.

See also: How to clean a stove top?

 

What is rust and how does it form?

Rust is a substance (iron oxide) that forms due to a chemical reaction between iron or steel and oxygen in the presence of water. Continued exposure to moisture or water vapour can lead to the formation of rust. Rust does not occur on other metals and stainless steel. However, they can corrode.

 

Removing rust from tools: Materials required

• Sandpaper
• Dish soap
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Scrub brush, cloth, or steel wool

 

Different ways of removing rust from tools

Sandpaper method

Use the sandpaper method for removing rust from tools. Choose a grease-fighting dish detergent to clean the tool. Wipe dirt or debris using a tack cloth and allow the tool to dry. You can choose a scouring pad, a stiff wire brush or steel wool to clean the heavily rusted areas on the tools. Remove any thick rust patches using coarse grit sandpaper. To remove the fine layers of rust, choose a finer grain sandpaper.

 

 

Baking soda

Start by creating a paste of water and baking soda by choosing a one-to-one ratio. Degrease the tool and make sure the surface is clean and dry. Apply the mixture to the rusted surface and leave it for two hours. Then, scrub off the paste using a brush. Clean the tool with water and allow it to dry.

 

 

White vinegar and salt

Tools with large rusty surface can be soaked in vinegar and salt solution. Start by degreasing, cleaning, and drying the tool. Choose a huge container for this method. Pour vinegar into the container to cover the metal part of the tool and add 1/4 cup of salt per litre of white vinegar. Sprinkle the salt over the rusty surface.

If the tools are too large, you can soak a cloth into the vinegar solution and wrap the tools. Allow the mixture to work on the rust, which may take up to three days. The rust will soften. After this, scrub off the surface using a metal brush or steel wool. Clean the tools with water and allow them to dry.

 

 

Oxalic acid

Oxalic acid is a rust remover, effective in quickly dissolving the rust. Make sure to wear rubber gloves and protect your eyes. The acid must be kept in a well-ventilated area. Start by degreasing, cleaning, and drying the tools. Pour one gallon of water into a large container and mix three tablespoons of oxalic acid. Take precautions when handling the acid. Now, keep the rusted tools into the solution and let tools soak for around 20 minutes, or as mentioned in the instructions. Rinse the tools and dry them.

Lemon juice method

Cover the tools with salt and then pour lemon juice over the surface. Allow the tools to sit for two hours for the chemical reaction to occur. The acid will break down the corrosion. Scrub the rust using a cloth.

 

 

Tips to keep tools rust free

• Before storing the tools, make sure they are dry, as the presence of moisture can cause rusting.
• Make sure to avoid humid environments, damp areas, basement, or garage.
• Do not allow grease, dirt, or dust to build up over time.
• Apply a protective coating layer on tools before putting them away.
• Gardening tools can become wet. Make sure to keep them dry when storing.
• You can invest in a corrosion inhibitor spray, which helps prevent rust from forming on tools.

 

 

FAQs

Does vinegar remove rust from tools?

White vinegar can prove to be effective in removing rust from tools.

What removes rust the fastest?

You can choose a commercial rust remover containing oxalic acid, which helps remove rust quickly.

Does salt remove rust?

Salt and lemon juice can help remove rust from tools.

How do you remove rust in 10 minutes?

Use sandpaper and a grease-fighting dish detergent to clean the rust from tools.

What naturally removes rust from metal?

Vinegar is a natural ingredient that can be used to remove rust from metal.

Can toothpaste get rid of rust?

Toothpaste and baking soda mixture can be used to remove rust stains. However, this method does not remove rust itself.

Does lemon juice remove rust?

Yes, when mixed with salt, lemon juice can be used to remove rust from metal surface.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com