Eliminate Rust Stains After One Wash with this Simple Trick
If you’ve ever washed clothes only to find rust stains remaining, the task of removing these spots can be daunting. But with a few simple steps, rust stains can be safely removed from cotton fabrics without any damage.
Updated 28 Jun 2023
By Isabelle Trottier
When it comes to rust stains, the sooner they are treated better. If left for too long, the rust can permanently discolor fabrics. To remove any rust from cotton, try this three-step process: soak, wash and inspect.
Soaking
Begin by soaking the stained fabric in a solution of 4 tablespoons of salt dissolved in 1 gallon of warm water. Let the item soak for at least an hour, then inspect for any remaining rust stains. If they are still visible, soak for up to 8 hours or overnight.
Washing
After the fabric has been soaked, take it out of the saltwater solution and launder with a detergent specifically designed for fighting rust stains. Follow the directions carefully, as some detergents may require pre-soaking, while others will need to be applied directly to stained areas. Once washing cycle is complete, inspect the item for any remaining rust stains.
Inspecting
If rust stains are still visible, repeat the soaking and washing process until the stain is gone. You can also try treating the stain with lemon juice before washing. Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent and is effective at removing rust from fabric. Simply apply a generous amount of freshly squeezed lemon juice to stains and let sit for 30 minutes before laundering as usual.
Prevention
To help prevent rust stains from setting further into fabric, treat as soon as possible after coming into contact with rust and always pre-soak heavily stained items before laundering. To further prevent rust stains, check your home’s plumbing fixtures and sprinklers regularly for signs of rust.
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