How To Remove Rust From Kitchen Sink Drain

Over time, drains develop rust stains, which are not only unsightly, but can make an otherwise clean sink or bathtub look grubby. If you’ve tried removing these stains in the past without success, here are a few methods you can try below. There is always a method that can help you remove rust from kitchen sink drain.

What Causes Rust Stains?

Rust stains are difficult to remove and can become permanent over time. There are several possible causes included:

Pipeline system

Rusty or aged water heaters, fixtures or pipes can cause rust particles to appear in your water system. In addition to causing damage to your home, this is a health issue that should be addressed by a licensed professional plumber as soon as possible. If the problem stems from rusty pipes or water heaters, they will need to be replaced.

Water supply

This is the most likely culprit. Dissolved iron in the water supply can leave behind minerals that give the sink an orange color. It doesn’t do any harm other than make your fixtures look worn out, but you might consider using a water softener or filter to reduce the concentration.

Metal cans

If you leave the jars in the sink, they will leave an orange ring. In the kitchen, this happens with food cans, and in the bathroom, with shaving cream and aerosols.

How to remove rust from kitchen sink drain

Use baking soda and vinegar

For more stubborn rust stains, make a paste of two other food staples: three parts baking soda and one part vinegar. Apply it to the rusted surface with a scouring sponge and let it sit for an hour. After rinsing it out, the rust should disappear, however, for more severe stains, you may need to repeat the process.

Use a rust remover

Rust removers usually work well because they oxidize rust immediately without any scrubbing. All you have to do is rinse it off and your sink or tub will look sparkling. Rust removers, however, contain harsh chemicals that emit horrible fumes, and these products can even cause skin burns if not handled properly.

Use lemon juice and salt

Both pantry staples can be combined to remove rust and keep your kitchen or bathroom smelling fresh and lemony. Make a paste with salt and enough lemon juice (a bottled one will do) to get a thick consistency. Apply the paste to the rust, let it sit for 15 or 20 minutes, then scrub with a sponge.

Use a Shaw pad

If you don’t mind using a little grease, Shaw’s cleaning pads are an effective, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly way to clean stains from porcelain and ceramic surfaces. They work well and don’t leave scratches.

Use a pumice stone

Regular pumice stone is also a great way to remove rust, especially from porcelain, since it won’t scratch or damage your finish. Just wet the stone, wet the rusty surface, and rub the stone lightly on the surface to remove the rust.

Conclusion

Homeowners often experience unsightly brown rust stains in kitchen sink and tub drains. If rust is a chronic problem plaguing your home, consider hiring a cleaning service. They can bring in specialized chemicals and wipe off your rust. What’s more, regular daily cleaning can also prevent rust at the source.