How to remove rust stains from clothes

It is possible that, due to use, our favorite clothes become stained by substances such as oil, wine or bleach, which sometimes cause permanent damage. Therefore, it is important to know the most effective methods to clean each stain, since acting quickly is key.

One of the most unique types of stains are those caused by rust. These stand out for being notoriously difficult to remove and because they can not only affect a garment, but if they remain for a long time, they can spread when in contact with other fabrics.

Knowing how to deal with this type of accident can be crucial to avoid having to throw away clothes that are in good condition or that you wanted to keep. Thus, these are some methods to remove these types of stains from clothing.

How to remove rust stains from clothes

There are several alternatives to remove rust stains from clothes as soon as possible, preventing them from spreading to other clothes and leaving them looking brand new. Even so, it is important to know more than one method, since the materials and ways of cleaning clothes vary in each one, thus being able to carry out the one that is most comfortable.

One of the most common ways to remove rust stains from clothing with materials that can be found at home is using salt and lemon juice. This is because the acid in lemon is useful in dissolving rust, allowing it to be completely removed from clothing.


To do this, start by placing a microfiber cloth under the stain – thus preventing the lemon liquid from transferring to other parts of the garment. After that, pour a glass of juice of said fruit – which would be approximately equivalent to the juice of a whole lemon – on the stain and sprinkle a pinch of salt on it.

Next, let the garment dry in the sun for at least half an hour, so that the sunlight enhances the effect of the citric acid. Afterwards, gently scrub the stain with a soft-bristle brush – or an old toothbrush – until the remains disappear permanently. Finish by washing the garment along with the rest of the laundry in the usual way.

Another of the best-known tricks for all home cleaning lovers is to use white cleaning vinegar and baking soda. This combination is very effective, since both products serve as powerful disinfectants and deodorizers, and when mixed, a small effervescent reaction is produced that helps eliminate dirt.

So, start by wetting the rust stain with white cleaning vinegar and sprinkle baking soda over it until the area is completely covered. Next, let the mixture sit for half an hour and scrub with a soft bristle brush afterward. Finally, it is important to rinse the garment with cold water before washing it as usual.


On the other hand, there are specific products in cleaning stores dedicated to removing rust stains from clothing. It is advisable to resort to them when no home method has been effective or if you do not want to put the garment at risk.

A quick way to remove rust is with specific stain removers, which are sold in cleaning stores and supermarkets, so they are accessible to any user. Even so, remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying any new product or one that you are not familiar with.

Key recommendations

Although the cleaning methods should be effective in removing any rust stain, regardless of its size, it is important to keep in mind other basic recommendations that will help clean the garment in a simple and effective way.

Remember to act quickly, as stains of this type will be more difficult to remove the more time passes. Additionally, avoid applying chlorine – such as bleach -, since these can indirectly help to set the stain further on the fabric, permanently ruining the garment.

On the other hand, if you have more than one rust stain or more than one damaged garment, it is advisable to try one with little economic or sentimental value; or on the other hand, in a small area, to ensure that it does not cause damage to the tissues in which damage has been suffered.

#remove #rust #stains #clothes

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