The 5 Best Rust Removal Products of 2023

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Discovering rust on your car, metalworks, or anywhere in your home is irritating at best and can cause significant damage at worst. Letting rust sit for too long on metal objects will start to break down and disintegrate the metal, permanently damaging it. 

You can quickly solve your rust issues before they get out of hand with a rust remover.  These products are specially designed to clean and remove rust and other forms of corrosion from metal. It works by reacting with the rust to dissolve it and prevent further damage to your belongings. To help you narrow down your search, we’ve pulled some of the best rust removers that are sure to get the job done. 

The best rust removers of 2023

• Best overall: Evapo-Rust 
• Best rust + stain remover: Whink Rust Stain Remover
• Best for heavy rust: WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover Soak
• Best for household use: Iron Out Spray Rust Stain Remover
• Best for heavy duty rust: Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter Metal Primer

Best overall: Evapo-Rust

Evapo-Rust is an industrial-strength rust remover that allows you to get the job done quickly and safely. The great thing about Evapo-Rust is that it’s water-based, so it’s non-toxic and harmless to your skin — great to use in the house around children and pets.

The formula is acid-free and removes heavy rust from tools and other items like bicycles and cars. It is also biodegradable, so it’s easy to dispose of safely. In comparison to other removers, Evapo-Rust costs around $11 for a 32 oz. container, which is a pretty good price. 

Best rust + stain remover: Whink Rust Stain Remover

The great thing about Whink Rust Stain Remover is its versatility. Because it’s made with hydrofluoric acid, it can be used to remove heavy rust, but it can also be diluted and used on soft furnishing, carpets, and even your bathroom to remove tough stains. 

However, it does contain hazardous chemicals and skin contact should be avoided. Take the proper precautions to protect your eyes and skin before using. Be careful not to use it on anything too delicate as well. Whink is an acid-based remover and is harsher in comparison to others on our list of rust removal products.

This is an extremely affordable rust remover that dissolves stains, meaning minimal scrubbing on your part. This rust remover comes highly recommended; customers praise the versatility and strength of this rust stain remover. Whink Rust Stain Remover is about $15 for a 32 oz. container, but it’s usually on sale at Amazon.   

Best for heavy rust: WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover Soak

WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover Soak is an extremely effective rust remover that quickly and easily allows you to remove any type of rust from any surface, making it a great universal rust remover. It’s strong and safe for most metals, making it great for auto restoration, machinery, and tools. 

It is extremely effective at removing rust due to its advanced formula and various additives. It is biodegradable and doesn’t use any acid or harsh chemicals to remove the rust. Because of this, you don’t need any special equipment, and it’s safe if it gets on your hands. However, you may have to apply more of this rust remover than you would other formulas to have the necessary concentration to get the job done.

Customers rave about this product and comment on its versatility — but be aware many reviews refer to the odor, saying it can take a while for it to disappear after application. WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover Soak usually sits around $25 for a gallon-size container. 

Best for household use: Iron Out Spray Rust Stain Remover

Iron Out Spray Rust Stain Remover is an all-around rust and rust stain remover that performs well across the board. It can be used to remove water stains from surfaces, stains from chrome accents around the home, and marks from stainless steel refrigerator doors. Just keep in mind that it does contain acids, so taking the necessary precautions to protect your eyes and skin is recommended.

The bottle states that it is great in bathrooms, kitchens, carpet, fabric, and works particularly well with chrome. The rust remover spray is easy to use and produces very little odor — good for small indoor spaces. 

With overwhelmingly positive customer reviews, we aren’t alone in thinking this is a handy product to have under your sink. On the pricing scale, Iron Out Spray Rust Stain Remover is pretty affordable, with a price of about $6.50 for a 16oz. Spray bottle.  

Best rust converter: Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter Metal Primer

When something is completely covered in heavy rust, normal household rust removers just won’t cut through. Rust converters, as the name implies, chemically convert the rust into another material that protects the material under the rust, making it a great primer for any metal surfaces you plan on applying paint to.

Corroseal Rust Converter and Primer uses an industrial-strength formula appropriate for a variety of materials and is especially good on cars. Even though this is an industrial product, it is non-corrosive, non-flammable, and safe to use within the household.

Note: If painted over rusted areas, the area will turn discolor and form a clear film over the old paint. Be aware before use that you may have to repaint over the Corroseal if discoloration occurs.

Corroseal is designed to help remove the heaviest of rust patches. The product is well rated and nearly 1,400 reviews cite the effectiveness, price, and ease of application as the main reasons to purchase. At full price, Corroseal is about $98, but you can usually find it on sale at Amazon for much cheaper. 

The bottom line

A non-toxic rust remover is a great item to have in your household cleaning cabinet. It can save your belongings from permanent damage and give them a new lease on life. The severity of your rust issue, or what you want from your rust remover, will determine the best product for you.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make my own rust remover?

You can make rust remover at home using common household ingredients such as baking soda and vinegar.

Will rust remover damage paint?

Acid is known to dull or remove paint, so make sure you purchase a water-based or mild acidic remover to prevent damage.

Is rust remover safe to use on kitchen utensils?

Yes, it is. But make sure you opt for a non-toxic remover that is biodegradable, and that you give your kitchen utensils a thoroughly good wash before using them.