Cleaning rust stains from clothing can be a daunting task. But with the right tools and techniques, it's possible to erase these unsightly stains from even your most cherished leggings.
Updated 28 Jun 2023
By Cyryl Wozniak
Rust stains can be tricky to remove because they are made up of iron oxide, which is an insoluble compound that won't dissolve in water. Still, there are a few approaches you can take to rid your clothing of rust:
One easy way to lift rust stains from your leggings is by making a simple paste. To do this, combine one part cream of tartar with two parts hydrogen peroxide and apply the mixture as a paste directly to the stained area. Allow paste to sit for 10 minutes before rinsing it out with cold water. Repeat this process until rust is no longer visible.
If you don't have cream of tartar, you can also try using lemon juice and salt instead. Mix 1 part lemon juice with 2 parts salt and rub the mixture onto the rust stain. Leave the paste on the stain for 10 minutes and then rinse thoroughly with cold water. The citric acid in the lemon juice should help to break down the iron oxide, making the rust easily removable.
If you don't have any of the ingredients listed above, you can also try using a commercial rust remover product. Commercial rust removal products are generally the most effective option, but make sure you read label thoroughly to ensure it is safe for use on delicate fabrics like leggings.
Once you've found the right product, follow the instructions on the label and apply the product directly to the stained area of your leggings. If the rust stain is particularly bad, you may need to repeat the process multiple times. Leave the product on the stain for the suggested amount of time before washing with cold water.
Of course, the best way to ensure that rust stains never develop in your clothing is by taking preventative measures. Be sure to always check labels for washing instructions – some items are not meant to be washed in hot water or at high temperatures – and keep clothes separate in the washer if they are prone to rust stains.
It's also important to remember to treat rust stains as quickly as possible. The longer a stain sits, the harder it will be to remove, so act fast!
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