HOW TO REMOVE RUST STAINS FROM CLOTHES

 

Removing rust stains from clothes can be challenging, but it's possible with the right approach. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to remove rust stains from clothing:

Materials you'll need:

• Lemon juice or white vinegar
• Salt or cream of tartar
• An old toothbrush or a soft brush
• Clean white cloth or paper towel
• Laundry detergent
• Cold water

Steps:

1. Act Quickly: The sooner you address the rust stain, the better your chances of successful removal. Avoid using hot water or heat, as it can set the stain.

2. Lemon Juice or White Vinegar:

   • Saturate the rust stain with lemon juice or white vinegar. These mild acids can help break down the rust.

3. Salt or Cream of Tartar:

   • Sprinkle a generous amount of salt or cream of tartar over the lemon juice or vinegar-covered stain. You can also make a paste by mixing the lemon juice or vinegar with the salt or cream of tartar.

4. Gentle Scrubbing:

   • Gently scrub the stained area with an old toothbrush or a soft brush. Be careful not to damage the fabric while scrubbing.

5. Check Progress:

   • After scrubbing, check if the rust stain is fading. If it is, continue to scrub and apply more lemon juice or vinegar as needed. If the stain isn't improving, you may need to repeat the process or try a commercial rust stain remover.

6. Rinse:

   • Rinse the stained area with cold water to remove the lemon juice or vinegar, salt, and rust particles. You should see some improvement at this point.

7. Laundry Detergent:

   • Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent to the stained area and rub it in gently. Allow it to sit for a few minutes.

8. Wash as Usual:

   • Wash the clothing as you normally would, following the care label instructions. Use cold water, as hot water can set the rust stain if it hasn't been completely removed.

9. Check Before Drying:

   • Before drying the clothing, check to ensure that the rust stain is completely gone. Heat from the dryer can set the stain permanently.

10. Repeat If Necessary:

    • If the rust stain persists after the first attempt, you may need to repeat the process or consider using a commercial rust stain remover, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Remember to always test any stain removal method on a hidden or inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it doesn't cause any damage or discoloration. Additionally, be patient and persistent, as some rust stains may require multiple attempts to fully remove.