Rust forms when iron, oxygen, and moisture interact.
However, if left unchecked, rust can lead to structural damage and performance failures.
Understanding how rust works is paramount to maintaining the longevity and value of your metal items.
Credit:Getty Images / Valeriia Mitriakova
It appears as a reddish-brown flaky substance that easily crumbles into a powder.
The chemical reaction that causes rust is called oxidation.
The most common causes of rust are exposure to rain, water leaks, andhigh humidity.
The speed at which rust forms depends on the jot down of metal.
Pure iron tends to rust slower than iron containing a mixture of metals.
Rusted metals can be potential breeding grounds for bacteria that cause tetanus.
As a result, cuts from rusting objects can be fatal.
Rust inside water pipes and tanks makes the water discolored and unsafe to drink.
Try these household staples and products to get rid of rust.
Vinegar
Submerge small rusted items in undiluteddistilled white vinegarfor at least 30 minutes.
Excessive amounts of rust may require longer soaking time.
Rinse the metal in water and dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.
Repeat the process as necessary.
Baking Soda
Mix baking soda with wateruntil it holds a spreadable consistency.
Apply the paste to the rusted area and let it sit for about an hour.
Then, gently scrub away the rust.
Rinse and dry thoroughly, and repeat as needed.
Lemon Juice
Create a spreadable paste using a 2:1 ratio ofbaking sodaandlemon juice.
Adjust the ingredients proportions to suit the size of the rusted area.
If the paste dries, spritz it with water to hydrate it before washing it away.
Rinse the item with clean water and towel dry thoroughly.
Raw Potato
Raw white potatoes contain oxalic acid, a common ingredient in most commercial rust removers.
The salt or baking soda are abrasives, so keep adding until you could scrub away the rust.
Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Cream of Tartar
Cream of tartar is also an excellent rust remover.
Make a paste with this household item using cream of tartar and distilled white vinegar in a 1:4 ratio.
Cover the rusty area with the paste and let it sit for at least five minutes.
Scrub the metal with a soft-bristled brush.
Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Store-Bought Rust Removers
Store-bought rust removers can be effective on various metals.
Tried-and-true products include Bar Keepers Friend, WD-40, and Rust-Oleum Rust Dissolver Gel.
These can be useful for hard-to-reach places on cars or oversized furniture.
One of the most effective ways to prevent rust is to keep metal items clean and dry.
Avoid scratching off protective coatings.
Opt for coated or galvanized metals to prevent rusting.
