How to Remove Rust from Hand Tools?

Anyone who has used a tool has come across a rusty old one that seems to be irreparable. If you have such tools in your toolbox, don't throw them away too quickly. Rust can be removed from a tool even if it is covered with rust. If you have a rusty tool, soak it in detergent and warm water to get rid of the rust, then scrub the tool with steel velvet or sandpaper. In addition, you can soften the rust by soaking it in vinegar and salt and then rub it off with sandpaper. In addition, you can also use commercial products such as oxalic acid to remove rust. China tools exporter to share with you: 

Method 1: scour, scrape and sand

If you don't mind using a little elbow grease, the rust can be physically removed by abrasion. When dealing with mild to moderate surface rusting, select an effective scrubbing material. Deeper corrosion problems may not only require muscles, but this physical solution is a good first step.

Step 1: remove dirt and grease with detergent.

First clean rusty tools in soapy water to remove dust and grease. Then, rinse the tool with water and dry it thoroughly.

Step 2: sandpaper the rusty tool.

For mild rust, scrub the surface with a clean cloth, sandpaper, or steel velvet. Always start with the coarsest abrasive to remove accumulated rust and pitting, then switch to finer gravel to smooth out the grooves caused by coarse gravel. If you still see rust, it's time to take more stringent measures.

Step 3: use the bit driven steel wire wheel to polish the stubborn rust.

For more serious rusting problems, apply kerosene to the surface of China hand tools like a cutting lubricant. Wait a few minutes. The wire wheel is then connected to the drill to remove the stubborn rust. Finally, use fine sandpaper to remove the remaining residue. If the surface rust disappears, your job is done. However, if the problem persists, a more powerful chemical solution may be needed.

Method 2: soak in oxalic acid

When you want to save some energy, oxalic acid provides an effective chemical-based treatment for mild to moderate rust. This mild acid goes directly into joints and crevices and penetrates the problem area, making it particularly suitable for removing rust from narrow Spaces and hard-to-clean areas. Simply buy a cheap chemical from your local home improvement store and start using it.

Step 1: clean rusty tools with dishwashing liquid.

First, before you start, clean the tool with detergent and water to prevent grease and dirt from blocking the chemical process.

Step 2: pull on the protective gear and immerse the rusty tool in the oxalic acid solution.

Don't forget to fasten goggles and rubber gloves to protect yourself before pulling out any chemicals. Please protect your eyes and hands from the acid. Although this is a weak acid, always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid smoke. You can open doors or windows, and turn on a fan if you have one. Mix three tablespoons of oxalic acid with a gallon of water in a plastic container large enough to soak the hand tools you want to clean. Then, put the tool into the solution and make sure it fully covers the tool.

Garden Hand Tools

Step 3: soak the tool for 20 minutes.

Leave the garden hand tools in the solution for about 20 minutes, or until the crust is gone. (depending on the corrosion, you may need more or less time.)When using oxalic acid, it is not necessary to scrub the rust. The acid can do all the work to get rid of the rust. Then, rinse, dry thoroughly, and store the tools again.

4 tips to prevent tool rust

While there are many different ways to get rid of unnecessary rust, one solution remains Paramount: prevention. The following tips will help you stop the corrosion problem before it starts.

Remember to always dry the tool immediately after use, and even spray it with an anti-rust agent.

Store tools in a clean, dry place. Dust attracts moisture, which causes rust. Yes, you also need to clean the house and the toolbox!

Keep the toolbox dry. Use silicone packaging (available at your local home improvement store) to absorb excess moisture. Or, use an old-fashioned wooden toolbox instead. The wood will absorb excess moisture.

Finally, for maximum protection, buy a dehumidifier to control the climate and limit humidity. In addition to saving your metal tools, it also makes you feel comfortable using the rust protection equipment for the next step.