Preventing rust and removing rust can be tricky because the chemical reactions that cause rust can vary depending on the material you’re trying to protect. So, we’ve made a short list of “rust busters” below to help you with rust around the house and in the workshop.
Handyman Tools
Remove rust from these by rubbing them with a slice of raw potatoe dipped in salt. Apply a thin coat of WD-40 or petroleum jelly to keep them rust-free during extended periods of time.
Drop in a few recycled silica gel packs (the kind found in a new pair of shoes and other leather products) to keep rust out of your toolbox – or you can use a few pieces of blackboard chalk or charcoal briquettes instead.
For chrome and other metalic surfaces
Dip a rag into a paste made from 4 tablespoons of salt and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to remove spots. Rub rust marks on stainless steel with lighter fluid, then scrub with a damp sponge sprinkled with souring powder – and rinse thoroughly.
In the Kitchen
Brush rust stains on porcelain with toothpaste (you can use a toothbrush to do it).
Plunge a rusty kitchen knife into a large onion a few times and it may end up rust-free.
Coat a nick on a metal appliance with clear nail polish to keep it from rusting.
Put a coffee filter in a cast iron skillet to absorb moisture and prevent rust.