With the popularity of stainless steel appliances in modular kitchens, you might be willing to purchase sophisticated utensils. Besides, households have other appliances made of durable, stainless steel. In case any of these objects develop rust, the visual appearance of the metal might get ruined. Moreover, rust significantly lowers the strength and utility of stainless steel if it remains unchecked for a long time. So, if you are still wondering how to remove rust from stainless steel, this post will be helpful to you.
Common Causes of Rust on Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is famed for its corrosion resistance, yet it is not fully impervious. Several factors can influence the production of rust on stainless steel. Here are a few common causes:
1. Exposure to Chlorides
Chloride ions, which are typically present in salt, can damage the passive layer that protects stainless steel against corrosion. Coastal places with saline air, as well as surroundings that use de-icing solutions, can increase the risk of rust.
2. Harsh Chemicals
Strong acids and alkalis can destroy stainless steel’s protective oxide coating, making it prone to corrosion. This is especially true in industrial environments where corrosive chemicals are present.
3. Scratches and Abrasions
Physical damage to the surface of stainless steel, such as scratches or abrasions, can disrupt the protective layer, allowing corrosion to begin. Stainless steel should be handled with care, especially in places where it may come into touch with abrasive elements.
4. Lack of Oxygen
While stainless steel requires oxygen to develop its protective oxide coating, in some cases, a lack of oxygen can cause this layer to break down. This can occur in nooks or regions with insufficient airflow.
5. Heat Damage
Excessive heat, particularly in the presence of certain chemicals, can cause the passive layer on stainless steel to break down, leaving it more susceptible to corrosion.
6. Contamination during Fabrication
If the stainless steel is contaminated during the manufacturing or fabrication process with non-corrosion-resistant components, it may experience localised corrosion.
7. Poor Quality Stainless Steel
In some circumstances, using low-quality or incorrectly alloyed stainless steel might reduce corrosion resistance. It is critical to select a suitable grade of stainless steel for each application.
8 Biological Factors
In maritime conditions, marine organisms such as barnacles can adhere to stainless steel surfaces. The byproducts of their activities can cause rusting.
Now, let’s take a look at the tactics that will help you remove rust from stainless steel.
How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel?
1. Cream of tartar method
In this method, you have to combine a few drops of lemon juice along with a full tablespoon of tartar cream. After that, you can apply this paste to any rusty area of the stainless steel. Besides, it would be ideal to use a soft sponge to rub the paste over all the visible rusty areas on the metal surface of the stainless steel kitchens accordingly. Once all the rusty spots have been covered up, you can make use of another damp sponge to wash off the paste from the metal surface. Then dry off the metal simply with the help of a dishcloth and have your job done.
2. Lemon juice method
This is one of the most effective rust cleaning methods for stainless steel surfaces. To perform this, you will need a mixture of equal amounts of baking soda and lemon juice to prepare a paste. After that, apply this paste all over the rusty metal surfaces. Then wash off the applied paste using a damp sponge. If you find that the oxidation still exists, it would be ideal to apply the paste again and leave it for 30 minutes at least before you remove it. You can take lime juice into the action instead of lemon juice here
3. Using baking soda paste
This simple method might appear to be extremely effective for removing rust. Firstly, take a certain amount of baking soda and two cups of water. After that, combine them to prepare a thick paste and apply it over the oxidation on your stainless steel appliances accordingly. Then scrub the paste over the metal surfaces according to the metal grain direction using a clean and tidy cloth. Eventually, use a damp paper towel to rinse off the metal surface and wash the paste away from it.
4. Knock out the rust using vinegar
Vinegar is always considered the most common household product for cleaning rust. It includes acetic acid that works as a mild corrosive cleaner in removing rust and dirt. At first, fill up the container with vinegar. Then immerse the stainless steel appliance in it if possible.
Otherwise, you can pour the vinegar on the rusty spots and leave it as it is for at least five minutes. After that, scrub the lingering stains away with the toothbrush bristles until you completely wipe out the stains. Once the rusty stains are removed, rinse the surface with normal water and let it dry.
The Power of White Vinegar
White vinegar is an effective and natural method for eliminating rust from stainless steel surfaces. Stainless steel is famed for its corrosion resistance, although rust can still form, particularly in extreme environments or after prolonged contact with moisture. Because of its acidic nature, white vinegar can aid in the breakdown and dissolution of rust, making it an efficient and inexpensive rust removal solution.
Set up an exhaust canopy in your kitchen
By now, you know how to remove rust from stainless steel. But how about preventing rust from affecting your expensive stainless steel items? Fortunately, you can set up an exhaust canopy, and a kitchen hood device containing a mechanical fan. This device hangs above the gas and can drive the mixture away from your kitchen. Therefore, the chances of getting rust on stainless steel surfaces are reduced significantly. It’s always wise to have a proper line of defence against expensive household objects.
Exhaust canopies from A1 Custom Stainless & Kitchens are designed to provide proper exhaust and replacement air through the custom ductwork that we install for your kitchen. The best thing about our custom exhaust canopies is that there is a minimum blockage in the ducts for free movement of air in and out of the system.