How to Remove Rust Stains From Clothes and Carpet
Rust stains are some of the most difficult stains to remove from fabrics and even concrete patios. It takes time and patience and, unfortunately, removal is sometimes impossible. But you should give these tips a try before giving up!
Is It Really a Rust Stain?
Some rust-colored stains are not caused by rust. Caramelized sugar and benzoyl peroxide (acne medicine) stains look like rust. Do a bit of investigating before treating the stains.
Rust Stains on Washable Clothes
Commercial rust removers found in grocery stores and online are effective and safe for most fabrics. Check the product’s ingredients label; the vital ingredient in these removers necessary for success is an acid; usually oxalic or hydrofluoric acid.
The acid combines with the iron and loosens it from the fabric, then holds it in suspension in the wash water to be flushed away. The removers are extremely toxic and poisonous if ingested, can burn skin, and damage appliance finishes. Use them carefully following the manufacturers’ directions, and rinse the clothes thoroughly. Any acid remaining in the fibers deteriorates fabrics so add a second rinse.
For a much less toxic treatment, go natural. Lemon juice and salt will often give great results. Sprinkle salt on the rust stain, squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the salt, and then spread the garment in the sun to dry. The ultraviolet rays of the sun will help speed the reaction. You should have no problems with white or ecru-colored fabrics. But for darker colored fabrics that may not be colorfast, test first on a seam or inconspicuous spot to see if fading or bleaching occurs.
A paste can also be made by combining one teaspoon of cream of tartar, one teaspoon baking soda, and a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the stain and allow it to work for 30 minutes before rinsing away. Wash the fabric as usual.
Rust stains cannot be removed by normal laundering and using chlorine bleach will make them permanent. If the stains remain after treating, repeat the steps. Do not put the rust-stained clothing in the dryer because high heat will set the stains.
Rust Stains and Dry Clean Only Clothes
If the garment is labeled as dry clean only, point out and identify the stain to your professional cleaner. Home removal methods will not work and may damage the fabric. Leave the removal to an expert.
How to Remove Rust Stains from Carpet and Upholstery
Rust stains usually appear on a carpet when metal furniture legs or decorative items get damp and leave a stain. Immediately remove the rusting item from the carpet and do not put it back until all of the rust on the item is removed and the carpeted area is completely dry.
Use a dull knife to scrape away and loosen any visible rust from the carpet fibers. Then use a good vacuum to remove the loose particles.
In a small bowl, mix two tablespoons of dishwashing soap and one tablespoon of household ammonia in two cups of warm water. Dip a clean white cloth into the solution and saturate the rust stained area. Let this sit for at least five minutes. Blot with a clean dry white rag. Move to a clean area of the cloth as the rust stain is transferred from the carpet.
If any rust stain remains, make a thick paste of table salt and lemon juice (about one-fourth cup table salt and one teaspoon lemon juice). Apply the paste to the stain and let the mixture sit on the stain for at least two hours or until dry. Vacuum to remove salt and lift carpet fibers. Repeat the steps if necessary.
If rust is transferred to upholstery, use the same cleaning solutions and techniques recommended for carpet. Take care not to oversaturate the fabric because excess moisture in the cushion or padding can cause problems. Consult a professional upholstery cleaning company if the upholstery is silk or vintage or for more stain removal tips.
What Causes Rust Stains on Clothes?
If the stain really is rust, it is often important to track down the source of the problem and prevent the stains from happening again.
Rust stains from corroded metal furniture, locks, walls, or cars are easy to track down. But rust stains can also seem to appear frequently on laundry for no reason. This could be happening due to two problems:
- A water source loaded with iron bacteria causes ugly discoloration and stains on kitchen and bathroom fixtures, dishes, and laundry.
- Rusty water heaters, pipes or water storage containers usually cause sporadic rust stains.
If the problem comes from iron bacteria, there ways to treat the water. Rusty pipes and water heaters should be replaced and the staining will often disappear.
