Rusty tools, kitchen utensils, or decorative items can look frustrating and old, but you don’t need harsh chemicals or hours of scrubbing to restore them. With this simple trick, you can remove rust quickly and safely—often in as little as 5 minutes.

Why Rust Forms

Rust develops when iron or steel reacts with oxygen and moisture, forming iron oxide. Left untreated, it can damage metal permanently. But removing it promptly is easier than you think.

What You Need

1/2 cup white vinegar or lemon juice

1 tablespoon salt or baking soda

A small bowl or container

Steel wool, an old toothbrush, or a scrubbing pad

Clean water and a soft cloth

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Soak the Rusty Object