How to easily remove rust from stainless steel
Stainless steel consists of an alloy of different metals, including steel, but also includes chrome in its combination. This last component forms a protective film and makes the steel more resistant to oxidation. So why does stainless steel end up rusting? And how can we remove rust from steel?
Despite its resistance, stainless steel is still a metal, and as such, it is sensitive to the action of certain external agents, such as dirt or humidity. To find out how to remove rust from stainless steel, read on!
Tricks to remove rust from steel
Many of the utensils that we use in the kitchen, as well as appliances and many other objects that we have at home, are made of this material. To keep them in perfect condition, we tell you how to remove rust from steel so that all the stainless steel elements in your home shine like new. Take note!
1. Water, sponge and microfiber cloth
Before the problem is generated and we have to remove the rust from stainless steel, it is best to prevent its appearance by maintaining proper cleaning and hygiene. When we clean stainless steel, we make objects and appliances made with this material remain impeccable and shiny for longer, thus delaying its deterioration and oxidation.
To carry out this maintenance and remove dust, grease and any other dirt, you just have to do the following:
- First, wipe the area with a microfiber cloth to remove surface dirt.
- Next, moisten a soft sponge with a little water to avoid scratching the surface and clean the surface without rubbing too hard.
- To finish, dry the stainless steel very well with the microfiber cloth, as humidity favors oxidation.
- To remove persistent stains on stainless steel surfaces, you can add a few drops of soap to the water, but first check that the product does not contain anything that could be abrasive. In this way, you will delay the corrosion and deterioration of the material, something essential to prevent the oxidation of stainless steel.
2. Baking soda
Baking soda is an excellent ally to remove rust from steel. In this case, you will have to prepare an anti-rust paste by following these steps:
- To start, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a little water.
- Then, apply the resulting paste on the rusty area.
- Let it act for approximately 2 minutes.
- Next, remove with a clean, damp cloth, exerting some pressure, but without rubbing excessively.
- Rinse the surface well to remove any traces of baking soda.
- Finally, dry the stainless steel very well with a clean cloth.
3. White vinegar
One of the most effective tricks to remove rust from steel and that will help you restore the shine of stainless steel is apple cider vinegar. In addition, it is one of the simplest solutions and that we all have within our reach.
The ideal is to use white vinegar, that is, the one that is generally used for cleaning the home, but apple or wine vinegar will also work, providing very good results. If you want to use it correctly to remove rust from stainless steel, you can do it in two different ways:
If you have to remove large or persistent stains from small objects, such as cutlery or tools, submerge them in a basin of vinegar so that they are completely submerged. Let it soak for 5 or 10 minutes so that the vinegar acids act correctly and you will be able to remove rust from the steel effortlessly. Then, remove the objects from the vinegar and rinse them with plenty of water. Finally, dry them with a microfiber cloth if possible.
To remove smaller rust stains, or to do a general cleaning of large surfaces, dilute one cup of vinegar with one cup of water in a spray bottle. Then, spread the mixture over the area to be treated and then remove it with a soft sponge moistened with water. Dry the surface very well and the stainless steel will be as good as new.
4. Lemon or lime
Another of the tricks to remove rust from steel is to use a file or a lemon, both very effective for this purpose, especially if it is recent stains and they are not very embedded. To do this, cut one of these citrus fruits into two halves and rub one of them through the affected area. Let it act for a few minutes, rub with a damp sponge and dry the surface for a flawless result.
4. Oxalic acid
Oxalic acid is also perfect for removing rust from stainless steel. In this case, it is a specific industrial product for it, but it is safe and its effectiveness is guaranteed. In addition, you will have the peace of mind of being able to use it effortlessly, ensuring an immediate result.
You just have to buy an industrial product that contains oxalic acid, but remember that the easiest to use are those that come in the form of a cream. For correct use, simply apply them to the rusty surface and let them act for a few minutes. Then remove with a soft, clean and dry cloth.
6. Strippers and scale removers
Finally, strippers and scale removers will also help us remove rust from steel, but they are more powerful products and can be abrasive, so we recommend that you only use them on old stains that are difficult to clean. If you choose these products, make sure they are suitable for stainless steel, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly.
Now that you know these tricks to remove rust from stainless steel in general, you can use them on your appliances or other objects in your home.
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