Top 7 Methods to Remove Rust from Furniture

To remove rust from furniture, apply white vinegar or lemon juice mixed with salt to the rusted area and let it sit for a few hours. Then scrub with steel wool or a brush, rinse, and dry thoroughly. For stubborn rust, use baking soda paste, sandpaper, or commercial rust removers like WD-40 or naval jelly. Always finish by drying and applying a protective coat. Regular maintenance helps prevent future rust, especially on outdoor or metal furniture.

Rust can ruin the beauty and function of your favorite pieces, but don’t worry, removing it is easier than you think. If you’ve been searching for how to remove rust from furniture, you’re in the right place. Whether it’s a vintage metal chair, a rusty outdoor table, or corroded hardware, this guide covers the top 7 methods to remove rust from furniture. Using household ingredients or heavy-duty products, you can restore your furniture and make it last for years.

1. White Vinegar – The All-Natural Rust Dissolver

If you’re looking for a safe, affordable, and non-toxic rust remover, white vinegar is one of the best options. It contains acetic acid, which reacts with rust and dissolves it.

How to Use:

• Pour white vinegar into a spray bottle.

• Spray it generously over the rusty area.

• Let it sit for 1 to 3 hours (or more for heavier rust).

• Scrub with a wire brush, steel wool, or a scouring pad.

• Wipe clean with a cloth and warm water.

• Dry it completely to avoid future rust.

Tip:

For smaller items like rusty bolts on furniture or removable hardware, soak them in a vinegar bowl overnight. Then scrub and rinse.

Personal Note:

I once restored a vintage outdoor bench using only vinegar and elbow grease. It took a few applications, but it looked like new afterward.

2. Baking Soda Paste – Great for Light Rust and Delicate Surfaces

Baking soda is mildly abrasive and great for removing surface rust without scratching too much, especially on items you want to keep polished or looking pretty.

How to Use:

• Mix baking soda with water to form a thick paste.

• Apply the paste to the rusty area.

• Let it sit for about 1 hour.

• Use a toothbrush or soft scrubbing pad to work off the rust.

• Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly.

Best For:

Indoor furniture, metal accents, and painted surfaces where you don’t want to risk damage.

Bonus Tip:

Add a dash of lemon juice to the paste if you want extra rust-fighting power.

3. Lemon Juice and Salt – Nature’s Rust Remover Combo

Lemon juice contains citric acid, and salt acts as an abrasive. Together, they make a natural, eco-friendly rust removal combo.

How to Use:

• Sprinkle salt over the rusted surface.

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salt to soak it.

• Let it sit for 2 to 3 hours.

• Scrub with a scouring pad or aluminum foil.

• Rinse with water and dry completely.

Where It Works Well:

Rusty chair legs, table edges, and metal trims—especially when you’re trying to avoid chemicals.

Extra Tip:

You can also use lime instead of lemon if that’s what you have on hand.

4. Commercial Rust Removers – Quick & Powerful

Sometimes rust is just too stubborn, and natural methods don’t cut it. That’s where commercial rust removers like Evapo-Rust, WD-40 Rust Remover Soak, or CLR come into play.

How to Use:

• Read and follow the instructions on the label (this is important).

• Usually, you apply the product, wait 10–30 minutes, and scrub.

• Wear gloves and work in a ventilated space.

Why Use These:

They work fast, often on the first try, and are ideal for heavily rusted or large furniture pieces.

Caution:

Some of these products contain strong chemicals, so always wear gloves and avoid contact with skin or eyes.

Pro Tip:

Do a patch test first on a small area to make sure it doesn’t damage paint or finishes.

5. Sandpaper or Wire Brush – Manual But Effective

When the rust is thick and flaky, sometimes physical removal is the best first step before applying any cleaner.

How to Use:

• Choose the right grit sandpaper (start with medium like 80, then move to fine like 120 or 220).

• Rub the rusted area firmly until the rust is gone.

• Wipe away debris with a cloth.

• Apply a rust-inhibiting primer or paint afterward to protect the surface.

When to Use:

On outdoor furniture, garage workbenches, and when prepping for repainting.

Helpful Tip:

Use a wire brush attachment on a drill if you want to speed things up.

My Advice:

Always wear goggles and a mask if using power tools—you don’t want rust dust in your eyes or lungs.

6. Coca-Cola – A Surprisingly Handy Household Hack

Believe it or not, Coca-Cola (or any cola with phosphoric acid) can help remove rust. It’s not the strongest method, but it’s handy when you have no other supplies around.

How to Use:

• Soak a cloth in Coca-Cola and place it over the rusty spot.

• Let it sit for a few hours (or soak smaller items in a bowl).

• Scrub and rinse with water.

• Dry thoroughly.

Good For:

Mild rust or just giving furniture a once-over before using other methods.

Why It Works:

Cola contains phosphoric acid, which reacts with rust.

7. Naval Jelly – For Heavy-Duty Rust Removal

Naval jelly is a gel-based rust remover that’s especially effective for very stubborn rust and larger surfaces like metal bed frames or patio furniture.

How to Use:

• Apply the jelly directly to the rust using a brush.

• Wait about 5 to 15 minutes.

• Scrub with a wire brush or steel wool.

• Rinse thoroughly with water.

• Repeat if necessary and then paint or coat for protection.

Important Notes:

• Always use gloves and work in a well-ventilated space.

• Naval jelly can damage paint and finishes, so only use on bare metal.

My Experience:

I used naval jelly on an old iron garden table that had been outside for years. It took two rounds, but the rust was completely gone—and I sealed it afterward with spray paint to protect it long-term.

Final Touch: Protect Your Furniture After Rust Removal

Once you’ve successfully removed the rust, don’t stop there. Rust can come back if you don’t protect the surface.

Here’s what you can do:

• Dry thoroughly: Always wipe down and let furniture dry completely after cleaning.

• Apply protective coatings: Use a clear coat, rust-inhibiting spray, or oil-based paint.

• Use covers or place furniture indoors: Especially during rain or winter months.

• Regular maintenance: Clean furniture every few weeks, especially if it’s outdoors.

Wrap-Up: Which Method Should You Use?

Here’s a quick summary to help you pick the best rust removal method for your furniture:

Final Thoughts

Rust doesn’t have to mean the end of your favorite furniture. Whether you want a quick fix with something from your pantry, or you’re ready to go heavy-duty with commercial removers, these seven methods cover it all.

What matters most is starting with the right method for the job, working safely, and taking the time to protect your furniture after cleaning. A little care now can keep your furniture looking good for years to come.