How to Remove Rust Stains

Rust stains can be particularly tricky to remove, especially as some products set the stain rather than remove it.  When iron begins to corrode it forms a brown coloured substance known as rust, but what makes it one of the most annoying of stains to combat is its ability to transfer from one object to the next. - if you brush against it you are usually left with quite a cleaning task. 

Our advice is that should you notice a stain on a delicate material such as silk, wool, leather or suede, take the item to a professional cleaner.  However, if dealing with a carpet stain or a more robust material, there are a few techniques you can use to remove the stain.  Below you will find two methods of removing rust. 

RECOMMENDED PRODUCT: PROCHEM RUST REMOVER

INSTRUCTIONS FOR METHOD ONE | REMOVING RUST STAINS 

TIP:  When tackling the stain resist the temptation to apply a chlorine bleach as this will react with the rust and cause an even bigger problem.

1.    Before applying a treatment ensure you remove as much of the rust stain as possible.
2.    If you are using our recommended rust removal product, always ensure that you follow the instructions exactly. 
3.    Remove any traces of cleaning solution with water and rinse thoroughly.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR METHOD TWO | REMOVING RUST STAINS

1.    Mix a solution of warm water with 1/4 teaspoon of WASHING-UP LIQUID in a cup.  Apply it directly onto the stain and leave for five minutes - in this time the detergent’s surfactants will assist in lifting the rust particles.
2.    With a clean CLOTH blot the stain and rinse it with cool water.
3.    Repeat until the stain is removed or most of the discoloration is picked up.
4.    Remove any traces of the cleaning solution with water and rinse thoroughly.

 

If you have found this guide useful and would like to learn even more new and improved ways of removing stains, take a look at our dedicated page of CLEANING TIPS AND ADVICE; here you will find an array of information to absorb, which will have you treating the toughest of stains in the most efficient manner.