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Rust on a chrome surface appears for two reasons. The first is damage to the outer layer: moisture penetrates through microcracks, due to which the steel begins to oxidize. The second is prolonged contact with already rusty metal.
When cleaning rust from a chrome surface, it is very important to refuse abrasive products and do not rub. It is better to use appropriate chemical solutions, a soft cloth and sponges.
Preparatory stage
Before carrying out rust removal procedures, the chrome surface must be thoroughly cleaned. Some contaminants, such as fats, are not visible to the eye, but interfere with the work of other products. Cleaning is very simple and takes just a few minutes:
Examine the chrome item. There should be no traces of dirt or dust on its surface. If there are any, first rinse the chrome object under running water to wash them off;
In a bucket of warm water (about 30-40 degrees), dissolve 10 drops of regular dishwashing detergent. The brand does not matter, the main thing is that it be liquid. Stir the solution until a light soapy foam appears;
Dampen a soft cloth (ideally, if it is made of microfiber) or a clean sponge for washing dishes in the prepared solution. Gently wipe the chrome element. If you want to wash small utensils from rust, such as forks or spoons, then you can simply lower them into this solution for 10-15 minutes. You need to wipe it several times;
Rinse the surface thoroughly.
In some cases, this is already enough to wash off the rusty coating.
Removing rust from chrome
To remove rust, you will need wine vinegar and aluminum foil. This is the simplest, most affordable, but at the same time effective cleaning method:
Mix wine vinegar and clean warm water in a 1:1 ratio. Take a soft microfiber cloth and dip it in the prepared solution;
Wipe the surface of the chrome object with a cloth soaked in the solution. You can also put this rag over the rust stain and let it sit for a few minutes. If necessary, repeat several times;
If it doesn’t help, take a piece of aluminum or tin foil, crumple it and clean the rusty spot. Although these metals are softer than chromium and therefore the risk of scratching is minimal, try not to apply too much force. Move carefully, from side to side, first from the center of the spot to the edge, and then vice versa.
For cleaning in hard-to-reach places, you can use a soft toothbrush dipped in a solution of wine vinegar.
Wine vinegar can be replaced with other household acids. As an alternative, fit:
White vinegar. Mixes up with water in the same proportion 1:1. It is necessary to soak a microfiber cloth with the solution and leave it on the rust for 2-3 hours. Small objects can simply be immersed in a mixture of water and vinegar, and also left there for a while;
Lemon juice. It does not need to be mixed with water. Simply apply to the surface of a rusty object and leave for a while. Or wipe the stain with a slice of lemon;
Coca Cola. It also contains acids that can dissolve rust. Pour the drink over the stain and leave for a while. Similarly, you can immerse small items in Cola. It is worth noting that the acids in Coca-Cola do not harm the body – after all, gastric juice also consists of acids.
Some housewives also use baking soda. It’s worth noting that this is not recommended. Baking soda is abrasive and can cause micro-scratches and cracks on the surface of chrome parts.
All work with acids is recommended to be carried out in protective gloves. This will protect the skin from inflammation and allergic reactions.
Special rust removers
You can also use special rust removers. They can be purchased at household and automotive chemical stores. The most effective include:
WD-40 . Well-known solvent and lubricant. It is enough to apply a little means with a built-in spray gun on the surface of a rusty spot and leave for a few minutes. Then wipe with a dry clean and soft microfiber and rinse thoroughly;
Means for removing plaque. They can also remove rust from the surface of chrome items. Use the instructions from the manufacturer – it will indicate exactly how to eliminate pollution. But, as a rule, it is enough to apply the product for a few minutes, and then rinse it off with water.
The use of such products on chrome-plated utensils requires additional precautions. Their residues must be washed off thoroughly, until the slightest smell is eliminated. And then wipe with a dry soft cloth.
Chrome surface polishing after rust removal
After rust removal procedures, matte spots may remain on the chrome surface. They can be removed using a mild abrasive – toothpaste or special tools. The latter can be purchased at auto chemical stores. They are called so – means for polishing a chrome surface:
Squeeze some toothpaste or surface polish onto the item;
Take a dry microfiber cloth or towel;
Polish the object by spreading the paste or product either in a wide back and forth motion or in a spiral. Try not to put in too much effort. For polishing in hard-to-reach places, you can use a soft toothbrush.
After polishing, you can wipe the chrome surface with baby skin oil or fish oil. This will help maintain the shine and protect the item from further rust.
Attention! This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.