Removing rust requires a careful balance between getting rid of an ugly brown spot and trying to keep a prized possession free of scratches. Learn how to remove rust and how to loosen a rusty screw in this excerpt from Tips, Tools, and Techniques(University of North Texas Press, 2012) by Georgia Kemp Caraway.
How to remove rust from metal
• Remove small patches of rust with a typewriter eraser. It removes spots and won’t scratch the surface.
How to remove rust from wrought iron
• Remove rust by rubbing with steel wool and kerosene. If very badly rusted, soak the piece in kerosene, then gently rub it with steel wool.
Loosening a rusty screw
• If you don’t have oil, loosen a rusted bolt or screw with a few drops of any carbonated soft drink. The acid in the soda will break up some of the rust.
• Soak a corroded screw or bolt in vinegar for several days or until the rust begins to dissolve.
More on antique preservation
Learn more about how to take care of your collectibles from Tips, Tools, and Techniques in the following articles.
• How to Care for Paper Collectibles
• How to Store Photographs
• Antique Restoration Tools
This excerpt from Tips, Tools, and Techniques to Care for Antiques, Collectibles, and Other Treasureshas been reprinted by permission from University of North Texas Press.
