Tech & Auto
5 Ways To Bring Your Rusty Old Tools Back to Life
By CODY D. CAMPBELL
WD-40
One of the easiest methods for removing rust from old tools is WD-40, a common lubricant known for its anti-corrosive properties.
Spray a coat on the tool’s rust-affected area and allow it to soak for at least 10 minutes. Afterward, use something abrasive like sandpaper to scrape off the rust.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is another household item that can help you remove rust from your tools. Depending on the rust damage, this trick can take a few minutes to 24 hours.
Submerge the rusty parts of your tool in white vinegar in a large enough glass or plastic container, then use a towel to rub sea salt into the damaged area before washing it off.
Oxalic Acid
If WD-40 or vinegar doesn’t work, try using oxalic acid, an organic compound derived from leafy greens, along with certain fruits, nuts, and seeds.
While oxalic acid is excellent at removing rust, it can be hazardous due to its corrosive properties. Take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Wire Brush
There are also more mechanical methods of removing rust. Power tools that use wire brushes can help you eliminate unwanted rust.
Wire brush attachments designed to fit power drills and smaller, Dremel-like rotary tools are inexpensive and can be found online or at your local hardware store.
Sandblaster
Although it’s not a typical home item due to its limited function once the rust is removed from tools and its overall bulkiness, a sandblaster is a great way to remove rust.
You can either bring your tools into a shop that will charge for the use of its sandblaster or rent an abrasive blaster from a hardware store like Home Depot to take home.