Non-Chemical Ways to Remove Rust

Using Sandpaper

• If rust is relatively new and is not too deep, rub the surface with sandpaper. Sandpaper is heavy paper that has abrasive material stuck to its surface. Alternatively, use steel wool to remove rust from iron cookware or barbecue grills.

Salt and Lemon

• Sprinkle salt on the rusted surface and squeeze on the juice of a lemon. Let the salt and lemon juice mixture sit for 2 to 3 hours, until it cuts the rust. Use the rind of the lemon as a scrubber and rub the surface to remove rust.

White Vinegar and Aluminum Foil

• Dip aluminum foil into white vinegar and use it to scrub the rusty surface. You can also dip aluminum foil in coke and use it to rub rust from chrome. Soak the rusted item in vinegar overnight and the rust will be easily removed the next morning.

Baking Soda and Water

• Apply baking soda or sodium bicarbonate directly on the rusted surface and use a toothbrush dipped in water to scrub off the rust. You can also take a potato, cut it in half and dip it in baking soda or dish soap. Rub the potato half on the rusted surface. The rust should come off with a little scrubbing.

Tea Bags

• Boil 2 1/4 cups of water in a pot and add 4 to 5 tea bags to make a strong tea. Stir it well and let it brew for 5 minutes before you remove the tea bags. If you are using tea leaves, strain the water and allow it to cool down. Submerge the rusty steel items in the liquid and allow them to sit overnight. In the morning, you will see that the steel parts soaked into the liquid have turned a blue-gray color. Use oil or wire wool to remove the color. This will not only remove rust from steel parts, but will also prevent further rusting.