Rust can easily diminish the overall look of your furniture. Most metal furniture is vulnerable to rust, since rust molds when metal comes in contact with moisture and combines with oxygen. This oxidation process is very likely to occur when metal furniture is subjected to changing temperatures, rain and sunlight.
Brush It
Removing the top layers of rust is a crucial first step, and wire brushes are great tools for your job. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, wire brushes could be connected to power gear or managed manually. If you’re using electricity, use a lighter touch to make sure you’re not scarring any intact metal beneath. Otherwise, you are going to find that some persistence and a little elbow grease will go a long way in removing the rust and old paint in the furniture. Steel wool, which is easily bendable, can be used to remove the rust in tight locations or tiny crevices. Even if the rust on the furniture is thicker than the surface, it’s still wise to remove as much of this outer coating of rust as possible before proceeding with different procedures.
Dissolve It
Another way of removing rust from furniture is by way of a chemical reaction with formulas which contain malic acid. Sold in many stores as Naval Jelly, rust remover or rust dissolver, the products can be found in thick gel type, which makes using the chemical to vertical and sloping surfaces simpler. Following the manufacturer’s directions, the gels must be used and left to sit down on the rusted areas. The formula works by converting the rust to black ferric phosphate, which loosens the rust and can be wiped away. You then clean off any remaining residue with a damp rag. Because this is a chemical reaction, it’s important to follow any and all safety precautions, including wearing masks, eye protection and gloves.
Acids and Pastes
Items commonly found in the house have been known to work as rust removers. As an example, the acetic acid in white vinegar is acidic enough to dissolve rust. The vinegar can be wiped on to the furniture or poured directly within rusty spots. Based on the amount of rust on the piece, you need to check on the furniture every hour or so to ascertain when to wash the vinegar off. You can also combine baking soda and warm water to create a thick paste for rust removal. Apply the paste and let it sit on the rusted areas before scrubbing it off with a wire brush.
Prevent Flash Rust
After removing the rust out of furniture it’s necessary that the thing be properly dried to avoid flash rust. Flash rust takes place when water — even a thin coating — is present on the surface of metal, steel or iron for a brief time period. Corrosion takes place fast and leaves a blot, which negates all of your hard work. Using clean cloths or even a hair dryer can help to remove all moisture before priming, painting or using the furniture .
