How Can I Remove Rust From Metal?

If you need to remove rust from metal, there are many commercial products out there, but most of them are highly toxic. Many rust removers rely on some form of acid, either phosphoric or oxalic to do the job. If you opt to use them, it is important to don rubber gloves and follow directions and precautions on the label very carefully. If toxic chemicals make you nervous, there are items right in your kitchen cupboard that can safely remove rust from metal without fumes or rubber gloves. White vinegar, for example, works like a charm. For small items, like earrings, just pour a little vinegar into a glass and let the items have a good soak. Once you see the rust has dissolved, just rinse the jewelry off and dry. Vinegar can also be used on bigger items, either pour it directly on, or spread it with a cloth. When the rust is dissolved, just wipe and rinse. Baking soda is another natural rust remedy. To remove rust from metal, make a paste of baking soda and water. Make sure the ...  more

The advantages this method by the Electrolytic Rust Removal has over the old standbys, like vinegar, Coke, muriatic acid, Naval Jelly, wire brushing, sand blasting etc. is that these methods all remove material to remove the rust, including un-rusted surfaces. With many, the metal is left with a "pickled" look or a characteristic colour and texture. The electrolytic method removes nothing: by returning surface rust to metallic iron, rust scale is loosened and can be easily removed. Un-rusted metal is not affected in any way. <a href="http://www.bhi.co.uk/hints/rust.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.bhi.co.uk/hints/rust.  more