Rust and iron stains can literally ruin the look of items from bathtubs to vehicle bumpers, even when everything else is clean and pristine. Chemical solutions are available, but they are expensive and potentially harmful. They are also not at all necessary. Help do your part to protect the environment, and use natural ways to remove rust instead of using toxic products. They are cheaper and often work just as well.
Remove Rust on a Bumper with Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil is great for more than just lining the oven and keeping food hot and fresh. It works amazingly well to remove surface rust on vehicle bumpers. What could be more natural than aluminum foil? Simply wad a small piece into a ball, and rub it over surface rust on a vehicle bumper. It will magically disappear. This natural method to remove bumper rust is far less expensive and safer than chemical products.
Use Salt and Lemon Juice to Remove Rust Stains in an Old Porcelain Bathtub
Old porcelain bathtubs that are considerably worse for wear are very difficult to clean, especially when etched and stained with rust. When looking for natural ways to remove the rust, try a mixture of salt and lemon juice. Make a thin paste of salt and real lemon juice, and apply it to a white non-abrasive scratch pad/sponge. The salt will work as an abrasive, and the acidic lemon will work as a natural rust remover. Apply the thin paste to the scratch pad, and place it over the rust stains. Allow it to work for about fifteen minutes before scrubbing. This natural way to remove the iron stains will also remove soap scum, body oils and the usual bathtub grime.
Try Baking Soda and Lemon Juice in a Fiberglass Tub or Manufactured Sink
Fiberglass tubs and synthetic basins need gentler care than old porcelain. They can become scratched if the wrong products are used. When searching for natural ways to remove rust from fiberglass or a sink made of synthetic material, use lemon juice and baking soda. The acid in the lemon juice will eat through the iron stains, and the baking soda will provide gentle abrasion that will not scratch the material. Simply dampen a sponge with water, and apply a combination of baking soda and natural lemon juice. If the iron stains are extra tough, allow this mixture to soak into the stains for at least fifteen minutes before scrubbing away. If necessary, use a white non-abrasive scrub pad instead of a sponge.
Natural Ways to Remove Iron Stains on Clothes
Bleach can be used to whiten and brighten whites, but it will not work to remove rust. Instead it will intensify the stains. Use natural lemon juice as a rust stain remover for clothing and other fabrics. Apply the lemon juice to the stains, and allow the material to lay in direct sunlight outdoors until the lemon juice dries. Launder the clothing as usual. This will remove rust stains, and without the use of harsh chemicals.
How to Clean Rusty Hardware
Rusty hardware can be salvaged. To remove surface rust on nuts, bolts, hinges and other hardware, use natural white vinegar. Place the rusty items in a clear glass container, and cover them with white vinegar. Soak the hardware for at least twenty-four hours. Surface rust is easy to remove using this natural method. Simply wipe it away with a rag, dry it well and apply lubricant to prevent further rusting.
