Surface rust on metal blinds, chrome bathroom fixtures, and furniture brackets can be removed with just two ingredients costing 3p in total, according to Aman Verma, director of Blinds Direct Ltd.
With autumn approaching, damper weather can lead to signs of rust appearing around the home. The problem can make a home look dated and worn down, but the simple method uses a small piece of tinfoil and white vinegar.
Gentle technique is key
Verma emphasised the need for care when applying the method. He said: “The important thing is to be gentle with it. You're trying to lift the surface rust, not scrub away the finish underneath.”
The items needed are a clean damp cloth, a dry microfibre cloth, 20cm of tinfoil, and white vinegar.
Step-by-step method
First, use the cloth to remove dust and dirt, then dry off the metal. Loosely scrunch the foil into a ball, taking care not to make it hard. Use around 10ml of white vinegar to dampen the foil, then rub it gently on the rusted area with light pressure. Wipe the area clean with a microfibre cloth and dry it thoroughly so the rust does not worsen.
Verma added: “There's no need to soak the blind or pour vinegar directly over it. You're working on a small area, so a little is plenty. If you're having to put a lot of effort into removing the rust, that's usually a sign that you're dealing with something more than a superficial mark.”
Cost-effective first step
He noted: “If you've already got foil and vinegar in the kitchen, you're using such a small amount that the cost is roughly 3p for one treatment. That makes it a handy first step for a small patch of surface rust, particularly when you don't want to spend money on a product that you may only use once.”
