Do you want to learn how to remove rust from metal?
Rusted metal can turn tools and fixtures into flaky and ugly eyesores, but there are a variety of DIY-friendly methods to bring your corroded items back to life.
This guide covers:
- How to clean rust with common household items
- The best commercial rust removers
- How each method works
- Safety tips for tools, acids, and electricity
Way #1: White Vinegar (Budget-Friendly & Natural)
- Best For: Light to moderate rust on smaller items, ideal for budget-conscious DIYers.
- Estimated Time: 24-48 hours for heavy rust (soaking time); scrubbing time: 15-30 minutes.
Regular white vinegar is an inexpensive and natural method to remove rust from metal.
Home guides dating back to the 1800s describe using vinegar to clean off rust, and it has been used for cleaning since ancient times.
The main active ingredient in vinegar is acetic acid, which chemically reacts with rust (iron oxide) and dissolves it from metal surfaces.
If lightly rusted, you will need to soak the rusted metal in vinegar for at least a few hours. For heavier rust, soak the item for 24-48 hours but it may need repeated soaks.
If the metal item is too big to be submerged, you can soak rags in vinegar and lay them over the rusted part overnight. After the soak, it involves scrubbing the rust off the metal with a wire brush or steel wool.
There is a risk of leaving pitting (small holes) in the metal if used on delicate metals like aluminum or brass. And even though vinegar is a mild acid, it’s still a good idea to wear gloves and to use it in a ventilated area to avoid breathing in unpleasant fumes.
Way #2: Baking Soda (Best Natural Abrasive)
- Best For: Light surface rust, safe for families with pets or kids.
- Estimated Time: 1 hour (soak time) + 15 minutes for scrubbing.
Baking soda is a natural abrasive that works to remove surface rust that’s ideal for households with pets or kids.
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) acts as a gentle abrasive that lifts away rust when you scrub it. Baking soda is also slightly alkaline (pH of around 8.3) and delicately dissolves acidic corrosion, making it easier to rub off.
The idea is to add just enough water to the baking soda to make a thick paste. Put the paste on the rusted part or tool and allow it to sit for about an hour. Afterward, simply scrub the metal with a brush or cloth to strip any surface rust.
Baking soda is very safe but be cautious to avoid scrubbing too hard if you want to avoid leaving scratches. Also, baking soda might leave behind etching on thin metals.
Way #3: Lemon Juice and Salt (Top Citrus Cleaner)
- Best For: Small items with light rust, quick and safe, eco-friendly solution.
- Estimated Time: 3-4 hours (soaking and scrubbing).
Lemon juice and salt can be an effective way to remove rust on small household objects and has been used since the 19th century. It’s safe around kids and pets, and eco-friendly, leaving a fresh scent behind.
The main active ingredient in lemon juice is citric acid which helps to dissolve the rust (iron oxide), leaving the base metal untouched.
The salt, ideally coarse salt, helps the lemon juice to form into a paste and also acts as an abrasive to help rub off the rust.
The idea is to sprinkle coarse salt onto the small (lightly rusted) metal piece, and then squeeze fresh or bottled lemon juice over it.
Just let the item soak in the juice and salt for a few hours, and scrub off the remaining rust.
While this method won’t work on heavy rust, it’s a convenient solution for light rust that is safe and non-toxic.
Way #4: Coca Cola (Surprising Household Hack)
- Best For: Small metal objects with light rust, especially when you have cola at hand.
- Estimated Time: 2-4 hours for soaking; scrubbing time: 15-30 minutes.
Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and other colas offer a surprising household solution for dissolving rust from metal tools and equipment.
The active ingredient with this method is phosphoric acid (about 0.05% by volume) which adds tartness to the soda and also acts as a preservative.
Phosphoric acid reacts with the rust to form an iron phosphate which is a black substance that can be brushed off or painted over. This acid is also a common ingredient in commercial rust removers.
The idea is to simply soak the metal in the cola for a few hours, or soak a cloth in cola and then lay it on the item. After soaking, scrub the metal with a brush or steel wool to strip the rust.
This method is simple and easy but it is unlikely to work for heavy rust. Once the rust is removed, just clean the item and apply a seal coat or primer.
Way #5: Steel Wool And Sandpaper (Best Mechanical Scour)
- Best For: Heavier rust or metal with intricate shapes. Requires elbow grease but works on most metals.
- Estimated Time: 30-60 minutes (depending on rust severity).
Steel wool and sandpaper is a physical way to remove rust that requires a bit of elbow grease.
Sandpaper has been used for centuries to buff out metals and was originally made from crushed sea shells while steel wool was first patented in 1896.
The idea is to gradually go from coarse to fine grit to remove rust. Sandpaper is graded from 60 (coarse) to 220+(fine) and steel wool is graded from #4 (extra coarse) to #0000 (extra fine).
Sandpaper is best suited for flat surfaces while steel wool is ideal for curvy surfaces.
It’s essential to wear protective gear when using steel wool and sandpaper to avoid breathing in metallic particles and getting it in your eyes. It’s also important to clean the metal item after buffing out the rust and to seal it with a clear coat (decorative pieces) or prime/paint for outdoor items.
Way #6: Aluminum Foil and Water (Simplest Chemical-Free Fix)
- Best For: Light rust on chrome and other polished surfaces, quick and easy.
- Estimated Time: 10-15 minutes for scrubbing.
Aluminum foil and water offer a simple, chemical-free method, gaining popularity in the DIY community for effortlessly removing light rust from chrome.
When aluminum foil is crumpled, it acts as a mild abrasive which helps to polish chrome and gently remove rust. The foil also produces a minor chemical reaction that slightly helps dissolve corrosion.
The basic idea is to crumple a piece of aluminum foil and dunk it in water to act as a lubricant. Simply take the soaked aluminum foil and use it to brush off the rust.
What’s left behind is a grayish residue known as aluminum oxide, which can be wiped away.
I recommend wearing gloves if you have sensitive skin and to avoid cuts.
Way #7: Non-Gel Toothpaste (Best Household Polish)
- Best For: Small, light rust on everyday household items, safe and gentle.
- Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes (scrubbing and drying).
Toothpaste is a gentle and effective way to remove small spots of light rust from metal objects like tools, kitchen utensils, and other small objects.
Non-gel or white toothpaste contains abrasives like silica or calcium carbonate which gently rubs off light rust.
Some toothpastes contain baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) which slightly helps neutralize acids and corrosion. The baking soda also helps neutralize odors and leaves behind a fresh scent.
This method is cheap, easy, eco-friendly, and safe to use around kids and pets.
The basic idea is to use a toothbrush or cloth, and gently rub on the rust using the toothpaste as an abrasive.
After scrubbing, let the toothpaste sit on the object for 15 minutes, rinse off the metal, and thoroughly dry it to prevent further corrosion. Just be careful not to rub too hard or you may leave behind scratches on the metal.
Way #8: Potato And Dish Soap (Quirkiest Natural Scrub)
- Best For: Light rust on smaller items or tools, perfect for eco-conscious DIYers.
- Estimated Time: 1 hour (scrubbing and drying).
Potato and dish soap provide a quirky yet effective method for removing light rust from small tools.
Potatoes contain a mild chemical known as oxalic acid that reacts with rust to break it down. And adding dish soap acts as a degreaser and lubricant turning the potato in a mild rust remover.
The basic idea is to cut a potato in half, apply some dish soap to the surface of the potato, and rub it directly on the rusted metal. You can also add a bit of salt or baking soda after applying dish soap to make it more effective and more abrasive.
If the potato becomes too slippery, simply cut off a slice of the potato, re-apply the dish soap, and keep scrubbing. After rubbing, merely rinse off the metal object after use and let it dry.
This method can be a bit messy so it’s best to do it over a sink or container.
Way #9: Evapo-Rust (Safest Commercial Solution)
- Best For: Rust removal without scrubbing, great for tools, eco-friendly, non-toxic.
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes for light rust, up to 24 hours for heavy rust soaking.
Evapo-Rust is a safe, commercial rust remover popular in the DIY community, effectively stripping rust from iron and steel with ease.
It was likely developed in the early 2000s by Harris International and it’s an eco-friendly product that’s easy to use.
It uses a chelation process where the solution binds to ONLY the rust and lifts it off without damaging the underlying metal.
A key advantage of Evapo-rust is that it is simply a soaking process and scrubbing isn’t required. It’s also water-based and acid-free so it won’t harm plastic, copper, or other materials when you dunk the rusted tool/metal in the Evapo-rust.
There are no fumes with Evapo-rust and it’s biodegradable — making it great for home use.
Before soaking in the solution, the rusted metal will need to be cleaned and degreased. After cleaning, just dry the metal object and drop it into a bucket of Evapo-rust.
Lightly rusted metal needs to be soaked for at least 30 minutes but heavy rust should be soaked for 12 to 24 hours. If the rusted item can’t be soaked, there is a gel-based Evapo-rust that can be spread onto vertical surfaces.
Way #10: Naval Jelly (Strongest Chemical Gel)
- Best For: Heavy rust on large, flat metal surfaces, works well for industrial and automotive items.
- Estimated Time: 5-15 minutes (application); 30-60 minutes for full rust removal.
Naval Jelly has been a staple in the DIY community for decades and was originally used to remove rust from ships which is how it got its name.
The main active ingredient (similar to Coca Cola) is the phosphoric acid with a small amount of sulfuric acid. However, Naval Jelly contains significantly more phosphoric acid than cola, at around 25–30%.
Naval Jelly is also a thick gel so it’s great for large tools or other items where soaking isn’t practical. Since Naval Jelly is a concentrated acid, it’s ideal for items with heavy rust as opposed to other methods.
Simply brush the Naval Jelly onto the metal piece and let it sit for about 5-15 minutes. Wash and clean the item, and then use a brush or steel wool to remove the remaining rust.
It’s essential to wear gloves and protective gear due to the high acid content of Naval Jelly. And don’t use Naval Jelly for chrome or metal pieces that have plating/bluing.
Way #11: Rust Converter Spray (Best Rust Transformer)
- Best For: Preventing further rust and converting rust to a stable, paintable compound.
- Estimated Time: 1-2 hours for drying and curing.
Rust converter spray is an easy way to deal with rusting metal parts because it actually converts the rust into a stable compound that can be painted over.
Rust converter sprays come in spray paint cans and typically contain tannic acid or phosphoric acid which transforms the rust into a black stable compound. Some of these sprays also contain a polymer which acts like a primer so it’s a dual use spray.
Converter sprays came into use in the 1970s for rusting car parts (especially frames) but now widely used in the DIY community.
These sprays are great for outdoor metal objects or where actually removing the rust is just not practical or needed.
You will need to at least brush off any flaky or loose rust from the metal piece before using. And if the converter spray contains a primer, it will still need to be painted over with a top coat to prevent corrosion or further rusting.
It’s essential to allow the item to be fully dry before using the spray or it won’t properly adhere or convert the rust.
Way #12: Oxalic Acid (Most Potent Acid)
- Best For: Heavy rust on delicate antiques, best for more stubborn rust.
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour for soaking; 15 minutes for scrubbing.
Oxalic acid is a potent rust-removing acid, highly effective for stubborn rust and ideal for delicate antiques and furniture.
Oxalic acid is found naturally in some foods like spinach and it was first made in the lab in the 1700s. Oxalic acid works by reacting with iron, effectively dissolving it into an oxalic complex that can be brushed or rinsed off.
The idea is to mix 1-2 tablespoons of oxalic acid with about a gallon of warm water. Soak the metal into the oxalic acid bath for around 30 minutes and then thoroughly rinse it off. Brush off any remaining rust with a wire brush.
It’s essential to wear gloves and eye glasses to avoid damage to eyes or skin even when it’s diluted. And don’t use it on non-ferrous metals like aluminum since it may get damaged.
Way #13: Molasses (Slowest Eco Soak)
- Best For: Antique or intricate metal items requiring gentle rust removal over time.
- Estimated Time: 3-7 days (soaking time).
Molasses offers a slow, time-tested method for safely removing rust from metals, used since the early 1900s.
The idea is to let the rusted item soak in molasses and water at a 1:5 or 1:10 ratio of molasses to water.
The reason molasses works to remove rust is because its chelating agents, like gluconic acid, that selectively bind to rust — making the rust dissolve.
Even though this method can take days to weeks to work, it’s a nice method for antiques and intricate metals, where avoiding harm to the underlying metal is crucial.
It’s essential to soak the metal object in a plastic container because if you use a metal container it may form unwanted chemical reactions. It can also get a bit stinky since the molasses may ferment so you may want to leave it outside or at least covered with a lid.
After the soaking, simply scrub the rusted surface with a brush, and allow it to dry completely before sealing/painting it.
Way #14: Electrolysis (Most Advanced Technique)
- Best For: Heavy rust, especially on valuable tools or antiques, ideal for large metal pieces.
- Estimated Time: 1-3 hours for setup; 1-2 hours for rust removal.
Electrolysis is an advanced, electricity-based method for removing rust from valuable tools and antiques, dating back to the 1800s.
Electrolysis is perfect for heavy rust, complex metal pieces, antiques, or valuable tools where thorough rust removal is needed. The strategy is to soak the rusted metal in an electrolyte solution which is basically water, and washing soda (sodium carbonate) — not baking soda.
A piece of metal like iron or steel (the sacrificial metal or anode) is inserted into the solution which is attached to the negative terminal of a battery charger. As electricity flows through the solution, it causes rust to lift off the rusted metal (the cathode) and get attracted to the iron/steel (anode).
The electricity removes the rust selectively without damaging the metal underneath.
There are DIY electrolysis kits that homeowners can buy online for around $50 to $100 depending on how much of the supplies you need. It’s important to only use electrolysis outdoors or in a well-ventilated area since the process releases hydrogen and oxygen which are flammable.
Way #15: Power Tool With Wire Brush (Fastest Mechanical Clean)
- Best For: Large, heavily rusted metal objects, works quickly with power tools.
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on rust intensity.
A wire brush attachment on a power tool provides a fast, mechanical method for removing rust from metal surfaces.
This manual method is perfect for large metal objects or heavily rusted pieces. The idea is to use a steel wire attachment and a power drill (or angle grinder) to mechanically rub off the rust.
The rotating bristles scour the rust, leaving the clean metal underneath, only using friction to quickly strip the rust. Just like sandpaper, wire brush attachments come in a variety of grades (coarseness) and you should start with coarse for heavy rust and gradually move to finer grades.
Risks of this method include putting too much pressure on the brush which may cause damage to the underlying metal. Safety protection is also needed such as goggles, gloves, and a face mask to avoid breathing in metal particles or damaging your eyes.
How To Prevent Rust After Removal
If you want to prevent future corrosion, it’s important to properly treat the metal after rust removal.
After using one of the above strategies, the item needs to be thoroughly cleaned and free of dust and rust particles. The object should dry completely after cleaning since moisture is the top catalyst of rust.
- For garden and hardware tools, I recommend applying a thin coat of oil to it to prevent re-rusting such as WD-40, mineral oil, or a wax.
- With decorative metal pieces, you can spray a lacquer or acrylic spray to provide it with a barrier to keep out moisture and prevent corrosion.
- If you have outdoor furniture or items, I recommend first applying a rust-inhibiting primer and then a top coat of enamel-based paint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions in relation to DIY rust removal:
What Is The Easiest DIY Method To Remove Rust?
The easiest and simplest method is probably just soaking the metal object in a tub of white vinegar overnight.
The acetic acid works to loosen up and dissolve the rust so it can be scrubbed off the next day.
Will Rust Removers Work If There Is Paint?
Most of the rust removal methods in this article will damage paint at the same time.
If you want to preserve the paint, you will want to use a spot method of treating the rust such as sanding or applying a rust remover with a brush.
How Long Before Rust May Reappear After Removal?
It really depends on the metal, how it’s stored, and other factors. If you don’t properly dry the metal, and treat it with paint or oil afterwards, the rust could start forming within days in a humid environment.
Are The Natural Rust Removers As Effective As The Chemical/Commercial Treatments?
No, chemical treatments are generally better at removing rust.
Natural or non-toxic DIY rust removal methods work nicely for light rust, but they aren’t likely to handle tougher jobs.
Chemical rust removers also tend to work much faster than natural methods. For example, the molasses and water method can take weeks to work.
Can Rust Removers Be Used Indoors?
Most of the DIY rust removal methods can be performed indoors such as vinegar, lemon juice, and molasses, but commercial treatments should be done outdoors or in a ventilated garage.
Products like Naval Jelly and rust converter sprays should be done outside and with eye protection, gloves, and masks.
Final Thoughts
No matter the size of the job, there’s a rust removal method that fits your tools, budget, and comfort level.
From natural remedies to heavy-duty solutions, each approach has its strengths and weaknesses.
With the right method and a little care, you can restore metal surfaces, extend their life, and keep rust from coming back.
Ask me a question below on rust removal or share your experience with us. I hope you enjoyed this guide by TimberSill.