How to Remove Rust From Tools in Your Garden

On a sunny day, you don’t need a rusty garden tool to dampen your mood. 

Rust makes your tool weak and encourages the spread of plant diseases. The oxidation process corrodes metal and makes it ineffective.

The best way to prevent rust is by storing your hand tools in a cool, dry place. Keeping them away from water eliminates the chances of rust formation.

But, when your equipment gets rust stains, you need a fast and plant-friendly solution. 

These 5 DIY methods of removing rust from metal surfaces are what you need. 

Let’s get started.

Use a Salt and Lime Mixture

Why salt and lime?

According to research, the citric acid in lime juice loosens the rust and removes it.

Learn how to remove rust from tools using this method:

1. Place your appliances in a large plastic container
   
   
2. Fill the container with lime juice
   You can use lemons and oxalic acid as substitutes to remove rust.
   
   
3. Sprinkle salt
   Consider using enough salt to cover each tool.
   Instead of salt, you can use baking soda.
   
   
4. Wait for 3 hours
   You’ll hear a fizzing sound as the mixture turns brown.
   
   
5. Rinse and scrub your tools
   Wear a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands as you transfer the appliances to a new container.
   Then, rinse your tools under running water and scrub them with steel wool or an old toothbrush.

This method is so fantastic that it removes rust off 50-year-old tools. 

Amazing, right?

You can also try out a substitute mixture of baking soda and oxalic acid to remove rust stains.

Soak Your Rusty Tools in Cola

Everybody loves a cold cola on a sunny day. 

Not only is it tasty, but it can remove rust from your garden tools too. 

Researchers show this is effective because it contains phosphoric acid, which dissolves rust.

So, how does cola work its magic on your tools? Prepare to be amazed after following these steps:

1. Fill a plastic container with cola
   One large cola bottle should be enough.
   
   
2. Soak your tools for 24 hours
   Most commercial rust removers contain phosphoric acid, but cola is safer. It’s processed and can’t damage your tools.
   
   
3. Rinse and scrub your tools
   After a day, rinse them under running water and scrub the remaining rust with a wire brush.

Et voila! 

Soak Your Tools in Vinegar

This trick is famous and receives praise from many garden enthusiasts. 

White vinegar has a mild acidity level, which makes it great for rust remove. It peels off the oxide coating from your aluminum hand tool, leaving its surfaces sleek and shiny.

The secret is to use diluted white vinegar for removal of rust. 

Besides, who wouldn’t want their rust gone in a few hours?

You too can hop on the bandwagon using these steps below:

1. Pour undiluted vinegar into a container
2. Soak the tool for 12 hours
3. Scrub, dry and oil your tool
   Use steel wool or a scouring pad to get the residue vinegar off to prevent corrosion.
   Rinse off the vinegar with water, dry with a towel, and apply some oil.

Now you can keep your equipment ready for the next pruning session.

Spray WD-40 on Rusty Tools

When rust forms on a tool, it becomes hard to use it. Thus, WD-40 is a popular lubricant that allows parts in a tool to move swiftly. 

But, is WD-40 safe to use on your garden tools?

Yes, it is!

The short answer is: go for it.
WD40 is a decent quick thing to use. It  might not extend the life of your tools indefinitely but will add years to their life.– Source

This rust-remover has the following benefits:

1. Dissolves rust within 3 hours
2. Non-toxic and biodegradable
3. Restores movement of metal parts

To reap its benefits, you need to know how to use it for light and heavy rust. 

For heavy rust, soak your equipment overnight in WD-40. On the next day, your tool will be as good as new!

If the rust is light, spray WD-40 on the affected metal area. Wipe off the excess after 2-3 hours, and you’re all set.

Check out your local supply store or Amazon for this magical oil.

Manually Scrub the Rust Off

You can never go wrong with grit, patience, and a little elbow grease. 

This tip is great for rust removal and tool maintenance altogether.

This is what you need to do:

1. Remove the surface rust
   Use sandpaper, steel wool, or steel wire to scrub the rust off the metal.
   
   
2. Wipe off the grime
   Make sure to use a rag to wipe off the dirt.
   
   
3. Sand, wipe and polish the tool surface
   For a clean finish, wash the metal with water and dish soap. Then, apply two oil coatings, and polish with a clean cloth.

There’s nothing better than seeing the results of a job well done.

Maintain Your Garden With Rust-Free Tools

There’s nothing better than having clean and sharp garden tools that cut like butter.

After giving these tips a try, you need to maintain your gardening equipment. 

To maintain 100% rust-free appliances, you need to:

1. Apply a protective coating of paint
2. Use rust-prevention products
3. Clean and inspect your tools regularly

Let your spick and span tools speak for you. 

Are you ready to have the garden of your dreams?

The Gardening Channel has all the tips you need to achieve an eye-catching garden

Read more of our articles today for advice on how to garden.

Photo from Flickr by Pleuntje