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Posted in Essential Oil Basics by Rocky Mountain Oils

Natural Rust Remover and Cleaner

Do your metal utensils always rust, even when they are stainless steel?

Do you end up having to get rid of your favorite kitchenware because you simply can't find a way to restore it? If so, then you need to try out this Natural Rust Remover!

Well, fear not, because we have got you covered, literally! (Swipe to the bottom to see how). We know that dealing with rust can be such an annoying issue. For kitchenware utensils, metal decor, and even some jewelry pieces, rust can really take the shine out of your things. And unfortunately, since rust is a natural chemical reaction that occurs when metal comes in contact with water and oxygen, it is oftentimes unavoidable.

These natural chemical reactions are part of metals' corrosion process, which is why when a metal piece is rusted, it is almost impossible to restore it to its previous glory. So if you can't prevent rust, you will have to try out a way to remove rust. That is why it is important to always have our Lemon Oil Natural Rust Remover and Cleaner handy, so that when rust first appears, you are ready!

Arm yourself with this Natural Rust Cleaner and never throw out your favorite metal kitchenware again. Use this essential oil recipe to tackle rust that appears on kitchenware, hardware, or homeware.

Natural Rust Remover and Cleaner Recipe

Not only is this Rust Remover powerfully effective, it is also completely natural. Use this cleaner around your home and kitchen with no worries about chemicals or artificial ingredients. Using 100% pure Lemon essential oil, this recipe is completely safe to use on kitchenware and silverware that are used for eating. You also don't have to worry about using this recipe on items that your children interact with, since it is 100% natural. 

Ingredients 

  • Rusted utensil (in this case we are using a rusty BBQ grilling spatula)
  • 1/3 cup baking soda
  • 10 - 15 drops of Lemon Essential Oil
  • 4 tsp of water
  • Bowl (for mixing paste)
  • Tray (or plate or bowl to soak your utensil in)
  • Spoon (for mixing)
  • Silicon bowl spatula (optional) 
  • 2 cups of vinegar 
  • Sponge 

Recipe

*You can adjust the ingredients' measurements based on the size and measurements of your rusted item. For an average-sized grilling spatula, these measurements worked perfectly. 

Add 10-15 drops of lemon oil to the 1/3 cup baking soda, and mix well in a bowl. Add the 4 teaspoons of water to the bowl and mix the ingredients until they turn into a paste. Using a silicon bowl spatula or your hands if you wish, cover your entire rusted utensil (in this case a BBQ spatula) with your paste. If you elect to use your hands, it is advised to wear protection or gloves as the lemon oil could irritate your skin. Leave the paste on your utensil for an hour or more so the paste can have time to absorb and work.

Afterwards, let the utensil soak in about 2 cups of vinegar (depending on the size of your utensil). For the best results, let your utensil soak in the vinegar overnight. However, if you are in a rush, you should leave it to soak for at least an hour. Lastly, use your sponge to scrub your utensil clean and watch as it emerges rust-free. The more time you let your utensil soak in the vinegar, the less elbow grease you will need to remove the rust. 

Watch the video below for more details on how to do this recipe.