Rust on doors and windows can be an unsightly problem, especially when rain and humidity contribute to corrosion. However, you don’t need to resort to repainting right away. Here are four foolproof, natural methods for removing rust from metal doors and windows without damaging their appearance:
1. Remove Rust with Aluminum Foil
- How it works: Aluminum foil, when used with water, creates a mild abrasive action that effectively removes rust.
- How to do it:
- Cut pieces of aluminum foil into small squares or form balls about 3 cm in diameter.
- Dip the balls in water for about a minute.
- Rub the wet aluminum foil on the rusty metal parts. You’ll see the rust gradually come off, leaving the surface cleaner.
- Why it works: The aluminum reacts with the rust and lifts it off the metal surface without scratching or damaging it.
2. Use Lemon Juice and Salt
- How it works: The acidity of lemon juice combined with salt makes a powerful rust remover.
- How to do it:
- Pour lemon juice into a container and add half a teaspoon of salt, stirring to combine.
- Apply the mixture to the rusted areas and leave it to sit for a few hours.
- Afterward, scrub with a toothbrush to remove the rust.
- Why it works: The acid in the lemon juice breaks down the rust, while the salt acts as a gentle abrasive to scrub it away.
3. Remove Rust with Coca-Cola
- How it works: Coca-Cola and similar soft drinks contain phosphoric acid, which is effective at loosening rust.
- How to do it:
- Pour Coca-Cola over the rusted areas and let it sit for a few minutes.
- After a few minutes, use fine sandpaper to rub the rust off.
- Why it works: The phosphoric acid in Coca-Cola reacts with the rust, loosening it and making it easier to remove.
4. Baking Soda Solution
- How it works: Baking soda is mildly abrasive and can help scrub rust off metal surfaces.
- How to do it:
- Mix 4 tablespoons of baking soda with 100 ml of water to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to the rusty spots and leave it on for about 5 minutes.
- Use a toothbrush to scrub the rust away, then wipe the area with a clean cloth.
- Why it works: Baking soda’s abrasiveness helps lift the rust without damaging the metal beneath it.
Conclusion
These methods are simple, natural, and effective at removing rust from doors and windows. They allow you to clean and restore metal surfaces without the need for harsh chemicals or costly repairs. Use one (or a combination) of these techniques to bring your rusty doors and windows back to their original state!
