Garden furniture stands outside all year round and has a lot to endure. Sun, rain and moisture can cause rust, especially on metal furniture. Fortunately, you don't need to buy new furniture straight away if you discover some rust spots. In this blog we give you handy tips to remove rust and make your garden set shine again!
Start with a thorough clean
Before you start removing rust, it's wise to clean your garden furniture thoroughly first. Use warm water and a mild washing-up liquid to remove dirt and dust. Then dry the furniture thoroughly to prevent further rust formation.
Baking Soda: Your best friend
Baking soda is an inexpensive and effective remedy for rust. Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the rust spots. Leave it to soak for 15-20 minutes and then gently scrub with an old toothbrush. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly afterwards.
Vinegar for stubborn rust
For stubborn rust spots, vinegar works fantastically. Soak a cloth with white vinegar and place it on the rusty parts. Leave it to soak for 30 minutes and then scrub with a brush. Rinse well and dry your garden furniture thoroughly.
Sandpaper or steel wool for metal
If the rust is a bit deeper, you can gently use sandpaper (grit 120-150) or fine steel wool. Sand gently to avoid damaging the metal. Then clean the surface and dry it.
Rust converter or remover
There are special rust removers and converters available that neutralise rust and prevent it from returning. Apply according to the instructions on the packaging and allow to dry thoroughly.
Lemon juice and salt: Double strength
Lemon juice and salt form a powerful duo against rust. Sprinkle salt on the rust spots and drizzle lemon juice over it. Leave the mixture to soak for 30 minutes and then gently scrub with a brush. The acidity of the lemon and the abrasive effect of the salt loosen the rust.
Cola as a rust remover
Yes, really! Cola contains phosphoric acid, which can dissolve rust. Soak a cloth in cola and place it on the rusty spots. Leave it for a few hours and then scrub with a brush. Rinse well with water and dry the garden furniture thoroughly.
Toothpaste for small spots
For smaller rust stains, you can use ordinary white toothpaste. Spread a little toothpaste on the stain, leave it for 10 minutes and then wipe with a cloth or brush. Rinse with water and dry.
Protection is the secret!
Once the rust is gone, you can protect your garden furniture with a coat of paint or a special metal protector. It also helps to store furniture indoors in winter or cover it with a cover.
Curious about how to maintain metal garden furniture? Then read this article!
Conclusion
Rust on your garden furniture is annoying, but fortunately it's easy to tackle with these tips. With a little care, your furniture will stay looking good for longer and you can enjoy your garden to the fullest. Good luck and enjoy your sparkling garden set!
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Read also: Maintenance of metal garden furniture
