Rust stains can be unsightly and difficult to remove, especially on hard surfaces like tiles. Whether it’s from old plumbing fixtures or simply natural wear and tear of time, rust stains can leave your tiles looking dull and discolored.
One of the major tile and grout cleaning myths suggests that rust stains can damage tile flooring beyond any hope of repair. But contrary to such popular beliefs, what you’ll learn in this blog is quite the opposite.
Here, we will explore five effective ways to remove rust stains from tiles, helping them restore to their original condition.
Table of Contents
What Causes Rust Stains On Tiles?
Before we begin, let’s first, in short, understand what causes rust stains to occur on your tiles. Rust stains typically develop due to the following reasons:
Plumbing leaks: If a pipe leaks behind or beneath your tiles, the moisture can cause rust to form on the metal components.
Metal objects: Leaving metal objects on the tiles, such as tools, utensils, or decorative items, can lead to rust stains if they come into contact with water or moisture.
Natural weathering: Over time, outdoor tiles can also develop rust stains due to exposure to rain, moisture, and other environmental factors.
Once rust starts to form, it can spread and become more difficult to remove. Therefore, it’s important to address rust stains on time with the right approach to prevent lasting damage.
5 Proven Ways To Remove Rust Stains From Your Tiles
1. White Vinegar
First, let’s begin with one of the most common yet powerful solutions to remove rust stains from tiles. White vinegar’s acidity helps break down rust stains. The acetic acid in vinegar reacts with the iron oxide in rust, causing it to dissolve. This makes it easier to wipe away the stain, leaving your tiles clean and rust-free.
➔ Hence, pour 2-3 tablespoons of white vinegar directly onto the stain and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes.
➔ Then, take a clean cloth and start wiping the area. Keep blotting, until no more rust appears. If the stain persists, repeat the process.
2. Dishwashing Liquid And Warm Water
Dishwashing liquid and warm water is also a powerful solution to remove rust stains from tiles. Dishwashing liquid contains surfactants that help to break down the rust particles, making them easier to lift and remove with the scrubbing action of the water.
➔ So, fill a bowl with warm water, add a few drops of dishwashing liquid, and stir until it creates a soapy solution.
➔ Next, dip a soft sponge into the soapy mixture and gently scrub the rust-stained area in circular motions. This helps loosen the rust particles without scratching the tile.
➔ As the stain no more appears, use a clean cloth to wipe away excess moisture.
You Can Also Read: How To Remove Scratches From Tiles?
3. Lemon Juice And Rock Salt
Lemon juice and rock salt create a powerful cleaning solution for rust stains. The acidity in lemon juice helps to break down the rust, while the abrasive nature of rock salt helps to scrub away the loosened rust particles. Together, they form a natural and effective way to remove rust from tiles.
➔ Thus, pour ¼ teaspoon of lemon juice over the rust, sprinkle rock salt over it, and allow it to sit for some 10-12 minutes.
➔ Once the allotted time is over, gently scrub the area using a soft-bristled brush toothbrush, ensuring you don’t scratch the surface. As you scrub, you’ll notice the rust gradually disappearing.
4. Baking Soda And Dishwashing Liquid
The baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive, helping to scrub away the rust. The dishwashing liquid, with its surfactant properties, breaks down the rust and lifts it from the tile surface. Together, they create a powerful combination to remove rust stains from tiles.
➔ So, fill a bucket with 1 liter of warm water.
➔ Next, pour 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid and mix them properly.
➔ Pour this mixture onto the rusted part of your tile and gently scrub it with a soft-bristled brush. Once you are done, rinse the area with clean water and pat it dry with a clean cloth or towel.
5. Kerosene
Kerosene, if used with caution and proper ventilation can also be an effective solution for removing stubborn rust stains. Kerosene contains solvent properties, which help to dissolve the iron oxide that makes up rust, allowing it to be easily wiped away.
But before using it, make sure to wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. Most importantly, after using it, clean the area with a cleaning solution to remove any residue and prevent the kerosene from staining the tiles.
➔ Pour 2 tablespoons of kerosene over the rust and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
➔ After the time is up, take a cotton cloth and begin rubbing the surface.
➔ Wait another 10 minutes, then finish the process by cleaning off the kerosene with a cleaning solution and blotting the area dry.
Tips To Prevent Rust Stains On Tiles
To protect your tile floors from further rust stains, here are some effective tips to follow:
➔ Use coasters or rubber mats under metal objects to prevent rust formation.
➔ Clean up any spills immediately to avoid moisture build-up.
➔ Install water softeners if your water source contains high iron levels.
➔ Periodically inspect plumbing fixtures for leaks that can cause rust stains.
The Bottom Line!
Rust stains are not so common, but can pose a challenge to tackle. Besides, if not dealt with the right way, they can permanently leave behind a pesky mark that can be beyond any hope of repair.
Hence, with the right solutions and approach (as discussed in the blog), you can easily remove rust stains from tiles and help maintain them in the long run. However, if the rust stains are extensive, deep-seated, or particularly stubborn, it may be best to call professionals for a thorough cleaning.
Dalux Carpet Cleaning hosts some of the best professionals, trained to deal with almost all types of stains on tiles. With their advanced techniques and high-quality equipment, they can safely and effectively banish rust stains from your tiles, restoring them to their natural beauty.
So don’t hesitate to contact them to experience the difference their professional rust removal services can make.
