Stainless steel appliances add a clean, modern look to any kitchen, garage, or rec room. But if they’re covered by a layer of rust, they’ll look like they belong in the garbage.
Seeing rust in your home can be upsetting, and if the rust isn’t treated, it will only get worse and spread throughout the appliance. But removing rust poses its own challenges—how do you get rid of it without scratching the surface?
Is there a safe way to remove rust without causing more damage? Here are a few tips you can use to restore the appearance of your appliance:
What Causes Rust?
Rust is a result of corrosion; it forms when metal is exposed to moisture and oxygen. This process is sometimes referred to as oxidation. You’ll often see rust on car parts, old plumbing pipes, and (unfortunately) your home appliances.
Preventing Rust
The sooner you take action, the more you can minimize the extent of corrosion. If you notice the protective coating of an appliance wearing away, try to reapply it as soon as possible. Check out your local hardware store to find coatings that prevent rust from forming.
Using cleaning agents with harsh chemicals, like bleach or ammonia, will damage stainless steel, and leave it vulnerable to corrosion. Stick to cleaning solutions that are designed for the surface that you’re cleaning!
Safely Removing Rust
It might come as a surprise, but stainless steel can be stained by one thing: rust. This can happen if the protective layer of chromium oxide wears away. Once this layer is gone, stainless steel is no longer resistant to corrosion, and rust forms in its place.
If you’re removing rust from a painted surface (like a white washing machine), you can file it away with sandpaper or a pocket knife. You’ll just need to repaint the surface area once it has been removed.
To remove the rust, you can try a homemade mixture or buy one at a hardware store. If you prefer the DIY route, make a paste with baking soda and water. Always be sure to only apply cleaning products that are designed for use with stainless steel—harsh chemicals can deteriorate the chromium oxide.
Let the cleaning solution sit on the surface for at least 30 minutes (or however long the product label specifies). Then, begin to gently rub away the cleaner.
When cleaning stainless steel, we advise you to steer clear of any abrasive tools, like steel wool or brushes with firm bristles. These can damage the surface and leave scratches behind. Instead, use a soft microfiber cloth.
Can Rust Damage Your Appliances?
Yes! The dangers of rust go beyond its unsightly appearance—it can also lead to a malfunctioning appliance. Rust can corrode and damage the mechanical parts of an appliance. Your most-used appliances could start malfunctioning if rust is allowed to take hold.
If this happens, you’ll need appliance repair in Winnipeg. At KAR, we can help you with that! Get in contact with us if you need a refrigerator, washer & dryer, or stove repair.
