Removing Rust Stains from Linoleum Floors

Although there are many products on the market that claim to remove rust stains, they are often for non-porous enameled surfaces and the formulas themselves are quite caustic and/or abrasive. This is a problem when you're dealing with porous surface like linoleum. A 'porous surface' is a surface that has microscopic holes or pits in it- despite the appearance of a smooth surface to the naked eye. When rust, or any other kind of agent, settles into these pits and holes, it can be nearly impossible to get it back out- without ruining the finish of the surface. If you're not particularly concerned with ruining the finish, you can try an abrasive, such as Comet and a heavy duty nylon scrubbing pad, to loosen up/break down as much of the rust deposit as you can. With repeated and regular scrubbings over a period of time, the stain may begin to fade or lessen. If you are concerned about the finish, some will recommend everything from vinegar and a toothbrush to a paste of baking soda and a soft wet rag as non-abrasive ways to save the finish and get the stain out. If these methods do not work for you, it may come down to replacing the number of tiles affected.