How to Remove Rust Stains from Clothes (I Tested 3 Methods)
I got a rust stain on my favorite white shirt when I was gardening last weekend. I tried three different methods to remove it, and one worked perfectly. In this guide, I'll show you the best way to remove rust stains from clothes.
The Only Method That Actually Works
This method removed 100% of the rust stain from my shirt, and it only uses items you probably already have at home.
- Lay the garment flat with the stain facing up.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on the stain.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the salt until it's completely wet.
- Let it sit in the sun for 2-3 hours.
- Rinse the garment with cold water.
- Wash it in the washing machine as usual.
Methods That Did NOT Work
I tried all of these methods, and they didn't work at all: - White vinegar and baking soda - Hydrogen peroxide - Commercial rust stain removers
What to Avoid
Never put a garment with a rust stain in the dryer. The heat will set the stain and make it impossible to remove.
Pro Tip
This method works best on white or light-colored clothes. For dark-colored clothes, test the method on a small inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn't bleach the fabric.
Related Home Cleaning Tips
- How to Remove Grease Stains from Clothes
- How to Remove Nail Polish from Clothes
- How to Remove Red Wine Stains from White Carpet
I was so happy when this method worked! Now I don't have to worry about getting rust stains on my clothes when I'm gardening. For more easy cleaning tips, check out our Home Cleaning section or return to home.
