How to Get Rust Out of a Sink? 7 Proven Cleaning Hacks

As a homeowner, you want your sink to be clean, shining, and spotless. But no matter what you do, the sink always seems to be rusted. This is mainly because of the hard water, which leaves a slightly red stain that looks unsightly. Most issues require plumbing services, but if stains are only on the exterior of the sink, they can be addressed with a few proven methods. Read on to learn how to get rust out of your sink and keep it stain-free all year round.

What Causes Rust on a Sink?

Rusts are sometimes very tough to remove, and if you’re wondering how these rust forms, then here are some possible reasons -

Plumbing System: If your water heater, fixtures, and pipes haven't been cleaned for ages, they can rust and deteriorate over time. This is a danger to you and your family. Also, rust can shorten the lifespan of your fixtures.
Water Supply: If the water supply entering your home has iron content, it can cause rust on the sink. You can get your water tested and add a filter or water softener.

7 Proven Ways to Get Rust Out of a Sink

Here are some DIY ways to remove rust from the sink -

Lemon Juice and Salt

A Bright Yellow Lemon Positioned Slightly to the Left of a Partially Visible Blue and White Morton Iodized Salt Container — AI Generated Image: Murloft

Make a thick paste using lemon juice and salt.
Apply the paste and allow it to rest for several hours (you can leave it overnight as well).
Next morning, scrub the surface using a soft toothbrush and rinse it with clean water.
Ensure to pat the sink dry with a microfiber towel; otherwise, water stains will form, making the sink look dull.

Pumice Stone

If you have a porcelain sink, pumice stone is your best option, as it is scratch-free. Here’s how to use it -

Wet the stone before using.
Scrub the surface gently, then rinse it with water to remove the rust.

Note: If you have a fiberglass sink, do not use the stone. There are other less abrasive ways to get rid of the stains on fiberglass.

Scouring Pads

The Sponge is Actively Scrubbing a Patch of Rust With White Cleaning Powder on the Surface of the Sink, Near the Drain — AI Generated Image: Murloft

If your sink has lighter stains, use scouring pads and some elbow grease to remove the stains. Remember not to use abrasive materials to remove stains from the fiberglass sink, as they can scratch the surface.

Chemical Cleaners

Cleaner Bottle Positioned Slightly to the Right of Center on a Steel Sink Surface, With a Rusty Metal Drain Grate — AI Generated Image: Murloft

You can find several chemical cleaners to remove rust stains from the sink. Upon pouring the chemical, it oxidizes the stains, which makes it easier to wipe off using a damp cloth. However, these cleaners contain harsh chemicals that may produce fumes, which are harmful for pets, children, and even adults.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Cleaning Supplies Arranged on a Wooden Countertop — AI Generated Image: Murloft

If the stain is prominent and won’t budge by scrubbing, consider using baking soda and vinegar. This is considered one of the best cleaning solutions. For this -

Mix three parts of baking soda and one part of vinegar to make a paste.
Apply to the rust surface using a scrub sponge, and allow it to rest for an hour.
Rinse it off with clean water, and the rust will be gone.

If required, you can repeat the process to completely remove the stains.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Cream of Tartar

A Bottle of 3% Hydrogen Peroxide and a Small Container of Cream of Tartar Held in a Hand Wearing a Green Nitrile Glove — AI Generated Image: Murloft

Hydrogen peroxide is safe to use, as it is a natural stain remover, and when combined with cream of tartar, it gives an amazing result by removing the rust stains. To use this -

Combine one part of hydrogen peroxide and two parts of cream of tartar to create a paste.
Rub the paste on the stain and allow it to sit for about 2 hours.
Then use a damp, gentle scrubber to scrub off the stains.
Once there are no reddish spots left, rinse it with water.

Oxalic Acid

Oxalic acid is another effective cleaner for removing rust from a sink. All you need to do is -

Mix 1/2 cup of lemon juice and 1 cup of borax, and make a thick paste.
Apply this to the surface and let it rest until it dries.
Then scrub the paste into the stain and rinse with water.

What Not to Use to Remove Stains From the Stainless Steel Sink?

If you have a stainless steel sink, there are certain substances and tools that must never be used with it. For example -

Steel wool or metal brushes may leave scratches behind.
Chloride-based cleaners are a big no, as they can strip the protective chromium oxide layer.
Rubber dish maps can trap moisture and leave stains.
Metal dish strainers can corrode, leaving rust.
Harsh chemicals, such as alcohol, ammonia, mineral spirits, or lighter fluids, are strictly not recommended for stainless steel, as they are corrosive.
Bleach and oven cleaners can also stain the stainless steel.

You can also use a mild cleanser and a non-abrasive cloth or sponge. Also, ensure not to let the cleaner sit for long, and if the rust persists even after the first use, reapply and rinse the area again. Lastly, pat the sink dry with a soft towel, as it prevents water spots.

How to Prevent Rust in Your Sink?

Sinks are mostly prone to rust, but there are certain preventive measures that you can take to ensure your sink stays clean and rust-free for long -

Clean the sinks monthly to keep the rust stains away. Towel dry your sink to prevent hard water stains and rust from forming.
Remove all the toiletries from around the sink, as they may cause oxidation, leading to rust formation.
Install a water softener or water filtration system in your home to reduce the minerals running through the water.

Knowing how to get rust out of the sink keeps your mind at ease. It helps you keep your bathroom and kitchen sink clean and visually appealing.