Remove rust spots from your aluminum interior furniture

If your aluminum interior furniture has rust spots, there are several effective methods to remove the rust and restore its appearance. Here are some recommended steps and treatments:

1. Cleaning and Preparation

Before treating rust spots, thoroughly clean the aluminum surface to remove dirt and debris. Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild detergent and warm water to gently wipe down the area. Rinse the surface with clean water and dry it completely. This step ensures that the rust removal process is more effective and prevents scratches.

2. Using Baking Soda Paste

Prepare a thick paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply the paste to the rusted areas and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. The alkaline nature of baking soda helps break down the corrosion. After the paste has set, gently scrub the area with a non-abrasive pad or soft cloth in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry the surface.

3. White Vinegar Treatment

White vinegar is an effective rust remover due to its acidic properties. Pour vinegar onto the rusted areas or use a spray bottle to saturate the surface. Let the vinegar sit for 5-10 minutes, then scrub the area with a non-abrasive pad or fine steel wool. For larger pieces, you can wrap the rusted areas with vinegar-soaked rags and cover them with plastic to keep the vinegar in place. After scrubbing, rinse the surface with water and dry it completely.

4. Lemon and Salt Method

Lemon juice, combined with salt, can also remove rust. Apply salt to the rusted areas, then squeeze lemon juice over the salt. Let the mixture sit for 2-4 hours to soften the rust. Use a toothbrush or the lemon rind to scrub the rusted areas. For stubborn spots, use fine steel wool. Rinse and dry the surface after cleaning.

5. Aluminum Foil Scrubbing

Aluminum foil can be used to gently scrub away rust. Crumple a piece of aluminum foil into a ball and scrub the rusted areas. The foil’s abrasive nature helps remove rust without scratching the aluminum surface. Rinse and dry the area after scrubbing.

6. Commercial Rust Removers

For more severe rust spots, consider using a commercial rust remover like Evapo-Rust. This product is non-toxic and safe for use on aluminum. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to apply the rust remover, then rinse and dry the surface.

7. Protective Measures

After removing rust, apply a protective coating or wax to prevent future corrosion. This step helps maintain the aluminum’s finish and protects it from environmental elements.

Preventive Tips

- Regularly inspect your aluminum interior furniture for signs of rust or corrosion.

- Use weather-resistant covers to protect interior furniture during harsh weather conditions.

- Store interior furniture indoors during winter to prevent moisture buildup.

By following these methods, you can effectively remove rust spots from your aluminum interior furniture and keep it looking its best.