Rust Stains (1416)

Rust is a difficult stain to remove. If the fabric is dry clean-only, take the identified stain to a professional dry cleaner as soon as possible. If the fabric is washable, there are three methods you may follow:

1. Use a commercial rust remover, following product directions carefully. Before using, check for color change on an inside seam allowance or hem area. Launder as usual. Commercial rust remover products are often effective and safe for most fabrics, but rust removers are extremely toxic.

2. Spread the stained area over a pan of boiling water. Squeeze lemon juice on the stain, sprinkle with salt, and dry in the sun. Launder. Caution: lemon juice can bleach some colors, so test first.

3. Take to a reputable dry cleaner.

Often rust stains get on an entire load of laundry. If this happens to you, fill the washer with clean water. Add 1 cup of non-precipitating water softener (brand names may include Spring Rain® or Calgon®) and run the clothes through an entire wash and rinse cycle without detergent or bleach.

Use of chlorine bleach on a rust stain makes the stain permanent, and you will not be able to remove it.

Before attempting to remove a stain, test the suggested stain removal product on a seam allowance, inside pocket, or other inconspicuous area. Treat stains as soon as possible after staining. The older the stain, the more difficult if will be to remove.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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