Rust happens as a result of metal objects corroding, often due to exposure to moisture or acidic solutions like lemon juice and vinegar. There are various kitchen tools and utensils that can rust over time, and these tools can cause rust stains on glassware when in prolonged contact. Here's how to remove rust from glassware:
How is Rust Removed from Glass?
Rust stains can often be seen on a shower glass door, which often has metal frames, and is constantly exposed to moisture. To remove rust stains from glass shower doors, cleaners would use a specialized cleaning solution on the entire shower door to dissolve rust, and remove it with a woven copper scouring pad.
How to Remove Rust from Glassware: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
First, gather the items you'll need. You won't need any special equipment or tools in removing rust stains from glass, but you will need some food-safe solutions as you're working on glassware. Here's what you'll need:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar - optional, but recommended
- Dishwashing detergent OR Liquid dish soap
- Soft-bristled brush
- Sponge
- Microfiber cloth
Step 2: Create a Baking Soda Paste
Create a cleaning solution that will remove rust stains from glass. A mixture of baking soda and water works well to remove rust stains, and using white vinegar instead of water is a more effective cleaning solution.
Mix enough baking soda and water or vinegar to create a thin paste. Baking soda lifts stains away, and acts as an abrasive scrubber. Using vinegar instead of water helps break down any rust stain faster. The same solution can be used to remove rust stains from an entire shower glass door.
Step 3: Apply, and Let it Sit
Apply the cleaning solution directly on the rust stain, and let the solution sit for 15 to 30 minutes depending on how heavily stained your glassware is. Test to see if the rust stain easily scrubs out by checking a small portion of the stain. If the stain does not come off easily, leave the cleaning paste on longer.
Step 4: Scrub Away the Rust Stains from Glass
If the rust stain wipes off easily, use a soft-bristled brush to gently but firmly scrub the stain away. Work in circular motions, and avoid using too much pressure to prevent streaks and scratches on the glass.
Step 5: Wipe Clean, Wash, and Dry
Wipe off the cleaning solution and remaining rust stains, then wash your glassware with soapy water as you normally would to remove any cleaning solution residue. It is best to use a mild, pH neutral detergent for this. Wipe dry with a clean cloth, and store away from metal objects.
How to Prevent Rust Stains on Glass
Glass does not rust. Glass only gets rust stains from corroded metal objects that come in contact with glass, so preventing rust stains on glassware is fairly simple. Here are a few tips to prevent rust from staining your glassware:
- Store metal objects away from glass. This will prevent the spread of the stain, and keep your glasswares clean and clear.
- Clean rust stains immediately before they set. Cleaning stains away from glass will prevent the rust from sticking onto your glasswares.
- Consider a protective vinyl coating for glass shower doors and windows, especially ones with metal frames as these will prevent rust from staining the glass material.
- Do not use steel wool or other abrasive scrubbers on glass as these will cause scratches and streaks that can make the glass look cloudy, and harbor bacteria, germs, and viruses.
- Keep glass jars away from moisture. Glass jars and mason jars typically have tin lids, which can rust over time. To prevent this from happening, you will need to store jars dry, and away from moisture.
Keeping it Clean
Rust, and other undesirable stains can be a hassle for any homeowner trying to keep their homes clean. Don't worry about those stains and spots, and instead, you can hire our part time maid for cleaning and tackling those chores for you! You can trust that we'll keep your home clean, and help you avoid future stains as well!
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