Stainless steels are often perceived to be resistant to rust and staining. However, that is not the case. They are not completely free of rust stains, but develop rust, if their protective chromium layer gets damaged.
There are certain remedies to remove the rust from the stainless steel, and this blog lists a few of the effective remedies that can help you get rid of those stains.
How to Remove Rust From Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel gets oxidised when exposed to high-salinity environments, leading to the loss of its protective layer. The rust stains can be removed using products found in your pantry or easily available products from the supermarket. Here are a few helpful ways to remove them:
Baking Soda and Water
Baking soda is non-abrasive and does not scratch or damage the surface further. Prepare the paste by mixing one tablespoon of baking soda with two cups of water.
Apply the solution to the stain using a toothbrush, and wipe it away using a clean cloth. Remove the rest of the solution using water and a wet paper towel. After this, you will see the rust coming off the surface onto the towel.
Barkeeper's Friend
This is one of the cleansers that will help you remove the rust from stainless steel. While applying this, do not let it sit on the surface for more than one minute. The best approach is to apply it and then rub it using the wipe-on, wipe-off method for 30 seconds.
White Vinegar
This contains acetic acid and can break down rust, debris, dirt, and stains. However, this remedy might not work on heavy rust stains.
Take a clean spray bottle and fill it with white vinegar. Make sure not to dilute the white vinegar, and spray it on the surface with rust buildup. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to wipe the residue. Lastly, rinse the surface using water.
Lemon Juice
The acidity of lemon juice helps in breaking down the rust or stains from stainless steel. To prepare this solution, mix an equal quantity of lemon juice and baking soda. This paste should be applied to the surface with rust buildup, and scrub it using a damp sponge.
If the rust buildup is heavy, reapply the paste and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. Make sure to scrub again using a damp sponge for the rust to break down.
Salt and Baking Soda Scrub
For rust that needs a bit more scrubbing power, try mixing table salt with baking soda to make a mild abrasive paste. The consistency of the paste should be thick, and apply this paste onto the surface with rust buildup.
Scrub the rusty area with a non-scratch scrub sponge that is damp. As you scrub the surface, the mixture will dissolve from the moisture in the sponge. This method works well if the rust hasn't been etched too deeply into the stainless steel.
WD-40
This works well if you are trying to clean your stainless steel benches in the kitchen or bathroom rails, and sinks. One of the low-odour varieties of WD-40 is made for such cleaning.
To use this, spray it on the surface and let it sit for a couple of minutes. After this, wipe it away using a clean cloth.
Phosphoric Acid
This breaks down the iron oxide without damaging the other parts of the stainless steel. This can be applied without any dilution because of its non-aggressive nature. After treatment, rinse the surface well with deionised or distilled water to get rid of any remaining acid.
Acetic Acid
Acetic acid works slower than phosphoric acid but can be better when rust covers a larger area of the surface. After applying acetic acid, make sure to rinse thoroughly and get rid of any remaining acid.
What Kind of Scrubs to Use?
It is very important to choose the right kind of scrub that does not damage the surface of the steel. Make sure not to use steel wool, as it can damage the protective layer.
It is better to use an abrasive nylon pad like Scotch-Brite, which will not be very harsh. Here are some types of scrub pads that you can choose from:
-
Green Scrub Pad: This is a fine grade scrub that can be used to clean household items or light commercial applications.
-
Red Scrub Pad: This is a much coarser pad that can be used for polishing stainless steel.
-
Grey Scrub Pad: This is a heavy and coarse grade scrub that can be used for stubborn rust stains, also ideal for tough cleanings and re-graining of stainless steel.
Conclusion
Stains or rust on stainless steel can be removed using simple household products. It is always better to start with a simple and gentle method first. If that does not work, make sure to use stronger cleaning agents. Avoid choosing a method that may cause further damage to your steel.
