Removing Rust Stains from Linoleum Floors
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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.
Comments
10/21/2006 12:20:44 PMPat said:
Try using a soft scrub product..there are several on the market. They work well and aren't as abrasive as a powdered cleanser.
10/21/2006 6:55:25 PM
Mike said:
Try a chemical from a compay called Rustco. Rusts worst nightmare. And the stuff is so friendly to the environment that when your finished using it, throw it in the garden as fertilizer. great stuff
1/19/2008 6:13:47 PM
Linda said:
Try Whink Rust stain remover - it might be in the laundry aisle, as it works great on old metal zipper rust stains on fabric - in seconds, or it may be in the hardware aisle or store.
4/22/2009 12:59:52 PM
Jennifer said:
Try a Mr. Clean magic eraser. I just removed a rust stain from my bathroom linoleum. The stain had been there for months. They are amazing.
7/24/2009 12:18:57 PM
Ronda said:
Bleach based products only make rust brighter thats why you never bleach whites when you have hard water (just makes them dingy quicker), oxy clean on white laundry rust removal product on stains(save your back)
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