11 Best Rust Removers That Prevent Damage To Surfaces, 2023

Image: MomJunction Design Team

Keep rust away from iron and steel products with our list of the best rust removers. Rust slowly attacks these metals, and without the right resources for protection, some precious objects at your home can face damage. Rusted objects will eventually wear away with time. If you’re facing an issue with rust, high-quality rust removers can help you eradicate it or prevent it from recurring. This liquid wonder can effectively tackle oxidation without damaging the base metals, plastic, rubber, concrete, or painted surfaces.

Available in various options, including acid-based rust removers that can ward off rust or convert into another non-corrosive material, choosing the right one can be difficult. So, take a look at our list of products and features to choose one that suits your needs.

Types Of Rust Removers

There are many versions of rust removers and while some contain hydrochloric acid or phosphoric acid that removes rust, and others use a process called chelation to chemically break down iron oxide. Some come in concentrated formulas while others may be prediluted in the manufacturing process. Let’s take a look at the most common ones:

1. Chemical rust removers

Commercial-grade chemicals are commonly used to remove rust. There are 3 main types of chemical rust removers: acids, petroleum-based solvents, and sodium hydrosulfite.

Although acids are instant and effective, they usually emit harsh chemical fumes, so you have to use them outdoors, in a well-ventilated space and wear protective gear like goggles, face masks, and rubber gloves. Acids may also run the risk of surface damage due to corrosiveness.

Petroleum-based solvents, on the other hand, are not as corrosive or toxic as acids but you may have to wait a whole day before you can see rust-free results.

With sodium hydrosulfite that is often found in powdered rust removers, you can remove rust stains from fabric, concrete, limestones, and marble. This active ingredient allows you to steer away from scrubbing and is effective within 5 to 30 minutes after application.

2. Chelating agents

Now available in the market are non-toxic, biodegradable, acid-free, and eco-friendly products that involve chemical chelation. It is easy to wipe away the rust without worrying about damaging the surroundings when using chelating agents. You could soak the rusty items anywhere between an hour to 12 hours, for visibly rust-free surfaces.

3. Rust converters

Use a product that converts rust into a black coating that serves a dual purpose when there are large amounts of rust for either a chemical or chelating product to then completely remove it. Rust converters protect the original surface and work as a primer for paints based on oil and epoxy. They do not however work on aluminum, copper, stainless steel, or galvanized metal.

Our list of the 11 best rust removers will take you through products that can help you combat rusty surfaces whenever the need arises.

11 Best Rust Removers Of 2023

1.Best Environmentally-Friendly:电动汽车apo-Rust Super Safe Rust Remover

If you are looking for an environmentally-friendly, water-based product that removes rust within minutes, consider the Evapo-Rust Super Safe Rust Remover.This non-toxic and non-corrosive solution emits no fumes or foul odor and is safe for the skin and eyes.You can get rid of rust without scrubbing or sanding and without wearing any special protective gear, such as gloves or eye masks. It does not harm unrusted steel, nor does it affect plastic, PVC, Viton, and most paints. This disposable remover is safe to use on cast iron cookware, grill grates, antiques, tools, auto parts, clocks,sewing machines, toys, and so much more. You may check out more about this product inthis video.

Pros

• Free of harmful acids, solvents, and bases
• Water-soluble rust remover
• Easy to use
• Reusable solution
• Biodegradable formula
• Effective on highly rusted tools

Cons

• Some items may require more soaking time
• Might require large quantities

2.Best For Hard Surfaces:Quickway Quick-Glo Rust Remover

The Quick-Glo Rust Remover is a superior eco-friendly cleaner that acts as a rust remover and a metal polish. The original formula, which dates back to 1957, works great on hard surfaces such as chrome, brass, stainless steel,sinks、玻璃、白墙,几乎任何头脑vy oxidation or rust is present.Free of any harmful fumes, this water-based product can safely be used without gloves.The remover uses pumice instead of sand or other harsher mediums that break down more quickly to gently polish and clean the surface. Additionally, you can save time as this polish and wax combination forms a protective barrier from future harm or oxidation for up to one year. Check outthis videoto learn more.

Pros

• Non-toxic formula
• Also removes water spots
• Easy-to-use wax paste
• Works on porcelain and silverware
• Minimum application time
• Non-abrasive formula

Cons

• Some may find it less effective on thick rusts
• May leave scratch marks on some surfaces

3.Best For Outdoors:RustAid Goof Off Rust Stain Remover

The RustAid Goof Off Rust Stain Remover is great for the outdoors. It works effectively on exterior walls, foundations, tiles, fences, sheds, lawn furniture, driveways, and more to remove and prevent rust stains. Additionally, this cleaner also removes limescale and calcium deposits. You can safely use this product on concrete, stucco, wood, fiberglass, bricks, painted surfaces, and vinyl sidings as it reacts with the iron in rust stains to neutralize and remove them completely. This all-purpose cleaner can be used to easily dissolve rust stains without the need to extensively scrub or rub the remover. Watchthis videofor more information about the product.

Pros

• Spray gel sticks to rust stains
• Works quickly
• Easy to apply and clean
• Non-abrasive formula
• No strong smell

Cons

• Some may find it less effective on fertilizer stains
• May not be effective on concrete surfaces

4.Best With Biodegradable Ingredients:WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover Soak

The WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover Soak is ideal for dissolving rust and restoring old metal parts.This non-toxic soak is composed of biodegradable ingredients that help old metal parts look new without involving any scraping, scrubbing, or chipping.Designed with industrial-strength quality and an extreme penetration feature, this solution helps you tackle stubborn rusts safely and effectively. It is suitable for use on auto-restoration parts, tractors, antiques, farm equipment, trailers and hitches, and rusty tools.

Pros

• Free of acids and caustic chemicals
• VOC-compliant
• Does not irritate the skin
• Brightens copper, brass, and similar alloys
• Does not affect the surrounding surface
• Does not release toxic fumes

Cons

• May not provide quick results on some surfaces
• May require large quantities to soak

5.Best For Marine And RV Use:Star Brite Rust Stain Remover

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use rust spray, the Star Brite Rust Stain Remover is a good choice. It works great for cleaning corrosion stains caused by metal hardware, nuts, bolts, and other marine fittings.The stain remover is specially formulated for marine and RV use and is also ideal for sprinkler rust stains. Without any scrubbing or rubbing involved, the formula works when in contact with the stains by dissolving the oxidation.

Pros

• Suitable for fiberglass, metal, and painted surfaces
• Quick and easy to apply
• Free of harmful acids
• Biodegradable formula
• 安全的乙烯和织物

Cons

• Might dull the metal
• May be less effective on heavy stains

6.Best Non-Flammable:Singerman Laboratories Concrete Rust Remover

Specially formulated without phosphates, the Singerman Laboratories Concrete Rust Remover helps remove rust stains from concrete stone and masonry surfaces and does not harm grass or vegetation. It turns into a clear gel when mixed with water and is ideal for vertical surfaces. In 15 minutes or less, this non-hazardous mixture helps stains disappear without the need for excessive scrubbing.

Pros

• Biodegradable formula
• Non-flammable
• Easy to apply and rinse
• Does not affect the precast finish
• Works quick on thin and fresh stains

Cons

• Some stains may require multiple applications
• May take time to remove tough stains

7.Best No-Scrub:Workshop Hero Metal Rescue Rust Remover Bath

If you are looking for an alternative to sandblasting, the Workshop Hero Metal Rescue Rust Remover Bath has got to be your pick. It is easy-to-use and does not require scrubbing, dipping,brushing, or other agitation. Depending on the severity of the rust, you can soak the affected area between five and 24 hours, and you will notice a visible difference without compromising on mechanical properties. This rust remover contains no acids and caustics and is non-toxic. It can be disposed of without causing any disruptions in drains and sewer systems.

Pros

• Does not release toxic fumes
• Biodegradable formula
• Ideal for iron and steel surfaces or parts
• Reusable solution
• Works on frozen tools
• Safe on the skin

Cons

• May take off paint
• May require multiple applications to remove tough stains

8.Best Versatile:JENOLITE Rust Remover

其实除了公式的Jenolite生锈Remover is suitable for treating cars, bikes, boats, yacht keels, campers, garden furniture, gates, railings, and more. In just under 30 minutes, you can wipe the surface clean without any rinsing involved. One liter of this rust remover gives you approximately eight square meters of coverage. You could also remove the light oxide films that are produced after shot blasting or grit blasting with this product. This liquid rust remover works well for tight recessed areas, box sections, and tubular components and can be applied by spray, brush, or immersion.

Pros

• Non-drip formula
• Easy to spray and use
• Does not corrode the base paint
• No scrubbing required
• A little goes a long way
• Available in thin liquid or gel form

Cons

• May irritate sensitive skin
• May require multiple applications for tough rust stains

9.Best Diluted:Whink Rust Stain Remover

The Whink RustStain Removereliminates rust stains easily and quickly. Safe on pipes and septic systems, you can also use this product on white sinks and white toilet bowls to see a visible difference. Containing water and hydrofluoric acid, this diluted cleaning agent doesn’t just fade stains but completely removes them without having to scrub the stain out aggressively.

Pros

• Non-flammable
• Effectively removes water spots
• Cleans colorfast fabrics and carpets
• No strong smell
• Works on concrete surfaces

Cons

• May require large quantities to remove tough stains
• 需要s safety gloves and mask

10.Best Gel Formula:Magica Rust Remover Gel

The Magica Rust Remover Gel does not contain any harmful or corrosive acids and is completely safe to use. The gel formula transforms the rust stains into harmless salts so that they can be easily rinsed away. Since this product works fast, it can be used to remove multiple stains from a range of surfaces, including appliances, antiques, furniture, bathtubs, cycles, carpets, concrete, sinks, toilets, and tools.

Pros

• Biodegradable formula
• Easy to apply and use
• No need to scrub
• Does not damage the surrounding surface

Cons

• May be less effective on tiles
• May etch concrete surfaces

11.Best Citrus-Powered:Weiman Goo Gone Rust Remover

If you are looking for an easy-to-use rust stain remover that dissolves easily and restores your surface, the Goo Gone Rust Remover is an ideal option. Safe to use on metals, ceramic, porcelain, and glass, this citrus-powered rust solvent requires minimal tools for rust removal. Get a paint-ready surface with this spray that dissolves rust on a variety of surfaces, including steel, aluminum, and chrome. Spray it on the affected appliance and wipe it down with any cloth, and you will see a marked difference.

Pros

• Safe to use in a toilet bowl
• Removes hard water marks
• Does not remove the base paint
• Easy to apply and rinse
• No need to rub or scrub

Cons

• May not be suitable to use on concrete surfaces
• May have a slightly thin consistency

How To Choose The Right Rust Removers A Buying Guide

Iron can corrode when exposed to oxygen, water, or humidity. This oxidation process causes an orangey-red residue on the surface of many products including tools, household appliances, chrome fixtures, bicycles, and antiques. They might sometimes be difficult to get rid of because they can be resistant to ordinary cleaners like bleach and soap.

Important Facts About Rust Removers

• Rust-dissolving products are intended to be used at room temperature. You may find it hard to observe the maximum effect of the product if there are varying temperatures around you.

• Make sure that the products are safe to use, containing no solvents, acids, VOCs, or other harmful ingredients. If you come in contact with any of these substances, make sure to wash it off with an antiseptic. The best rust dissolvers are also environment- friendly and will not harm other materials like paint, plastic, rubber, or non-ferrous metals.

• Some rust eliminators may be concentrated and require diluting with water. Some, however, are premixed and are ready-to-use. Depending on how many components you’re looking to clean up and how severely they’re rusted will determine which product you should choose.

Application Methods

There are 4 means of application for rust removers:

• Soaksare best for removing rust from tools, automotive parts, and other metallic surfaces that you don’t want to scrub or scratch.

• Spraysare helpful for household tool cleanup, as well as rust stains that aren’t too deep.

• Powdersare best for preventing or treating rust stains on clothing, as well as sinks, toilets, and bathtubs.

• Rustconverter is similar in formula to a paint or primer and can be applied with a brush.

Why Trust MomJunction?

Rust is harmful to iron and steel objects. If not protected at the earliest, rust can eventually damage the product and cause them to wear down. We have handpicked some of the best rust protectors for your household goods to help you keep them as good as new. After studying customer ratings and feedback, we have included high-quality, effective products for the best results.

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