How do I get rid of rust stains on my t-shirt?

There are several methods you can use to remove rust stains from your t-shirt, including lemon juice, white vinegar, and a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Be sure to test each method first on an inconspicuous area of the fabric and wash the t-shirt after using any of these methods.

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Eliminate Rust Stains from Your T-shirt Easily with These Tips

Do rust stains on your t-shirt have you feeling frustrated? Here are a few simple tips to help you get rid of those pesky rust spots.

Updated 28 Jun 2023

By Brane Lukman

Getting rid of rust stains is often challenging. As rust is the result of oxidation, which occurs when a metal comes in contact with air and moisture, it can be especially hard to remove from fabrics. Luckily, however, there are a few methods that can help you get your garments looking spotless again.

Method 1: Lemon Juice

This is an easy, natural way of removing rust stains. The high acid content in lemon juice helps break down rust and loosen it from the fabric.

Cut a lemon in half and squeeze it into a container.
Soak a cloth or brush in the lemon juice and apply it directly to the affected area.
Leave it on for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush.
Rinse the area clean with water.

Method 2: White Vinegar

White vinegar is another good option for rust removal as it is highly acidic and can help break down rust deposits. It is also antibacterial, so it can help kill germs or bacteria that may be present on the fabric.

Pour white vinegar into a bowl or container.
Soak fabric in the vinegar for about 10 minutes.
Rub the fabric with a brush until the rust has been removed.
Rinse the fabric in cold water.
Repeat if necessary.

Method 3: Baking Soda & Hydrogen Peroxide

Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are two common items that can be used to remove rust stains from fabric. This method works best on light-colored fabrics as peroxide and baking soda can bleach fabric.

Mix equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide together to form a paste.
Apply the paste to the rust stain.
Allow the paste to sit on the fabric for an hour.
Scrub the paste into the fabric with a brush.
Rinse area with water.

Additional Tips

Be sure to test each method first on an inconspicuous area of fabric to be sure it doesn't cause damage.
If the stain does not come out after the first attempt, repeat the process until the stain is gone.
Always wash fabric after using any of these methods to remove the rust

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