Quck answer
Rust stains on a washing machine can be unsightly and difficult to remove. To tackle this problem, follow these steps:
1. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the rust stains with the vinegar solution and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
3. Scrub the stains using a soft brush or sponge.
4. Rinse the area with clean water.
5. For stubborn stains, make a paste using baking soda and water, and apply it to the rusted areas. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
6. Repeat the process if necessary until the stains are completely gone.
Regular maintenance and keeping the washing machine dry can help prevent rust stains in the future.
Since the bulk of a washing machine is made of metal, it is common for it to rust, particularly in the damp environment of a laundry room. Rust stains on the inside of your washer can transfer onto your clothes, while rust stains on the outside can indicate damaging corrosion. Removing rust stains from the exterior of a washing machine may be more or less difficult, depending on the severity of the corrosion. However, rust stains on the inside are typically easy to handle.
How to Remove Rust Stains From a Washing Machine
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Professor25/iStock/GettyImages
Using Lemon Juice for the Inside
A common method for dealing with rust is to dissolve it with vinegar or lemon juice. These acidic substances break down rust (which is iron oxide) by attracting oxygen atoms to form water, which dissolves the leftover iron compounds. To clean the inner tub of your washing machine, pour 2 cups of lemon juice into the machine and run it through a complete wash cycle.
If your clothes still get rusty after cleaning the washing machine with lemon juice, there may be rust in the water pipes, particularly if you have an older house with galvanized iron pipes. The rust won’t go away until you replace the pipes.
Removing Exterior Rust
Light rust stains on the enameled surface of your washing machine may simply be surface stains. If accompanied by bubbling metal or chipping enamel, treat them like rust spots on your car. Sand and fill the metal, coat the rust with primer, and then with enamel. Rust stains on the chrome parts, such as the control console, might come off easily with aluminum foil.
Rust Removal Procedure
To remove rust from the outside of your washing machine, gather the following materials:
- Vinegar
- Rags
- Baking soda
- 150-grit wet/dry sandpaper
- Rust dissolver
- Auto body filler
- Plastic putty knife
- Rust inhibiting primer
- Appliance enamel
Wipe surface rust from enameled metal by spraying it with a 1-to-1 solution of vinegar and water. Wait for five minutes for the rust to dissolve, then wipe it off with a rag. You can also remove such stains by rubbing them with a paste of baking soda and water, and a non-abrasive cloth.
Use 150-grit wet/dry sandpaper to sand the surface rust and enamel off corroded parts of the washing machine. Once all the loose material is gone, treat the remaining rust with a rust dissolver, such as naval jelly. Apply the product according to the instructions and let it work for the recommended amount of time before wiping it off and, if recommended, rinsing the area with water.
Fill gaps and holes with auto body filler. Mix the filler with hardener according to the instructions, apply it with a plastic putty knife, smooth it well before it sets, then sand it flat with 150-grit sandpaper.
Prime all rusted areas and areas of exposed metal with a rust-inhibiting primer. Several appropriate products are available in aerosol cans.
To remove rust from your washing machine, use appliance enamel that matches the color of your machine. You can purchase this from the manufacturer to ensure an exact match.
Removing Rust from Chrome
You can remove rust from chrome by using a piece of aluminum foil. Rub the rust vigorously with the foil and the rust will be erased from the chrome. This is because oxygen atoms are more easily attracted to aluminum than the iron in the chrome, forming aluminum oxide and removing the rust. Rubbing vigorously generates heat, which makes the process go faster.
You’ll need aluminum foil, scissors, a dry cloth, and automobile wax to do this efficiently.
Cut a piece of aluminum foil into several 3-by-3-inch squares using scissors. Spray water on the rust or dip the aluminum foil in water and rub the rust lightly, creating heat through friction. Keep rubbing lightly until the surface smooths out. Rub the area with a dry cloth to remove the remaining brownish deposits. Finally, spread a small amount of automobile wax on the chrome and buff it up to prevent rust from forming again.
FAQ
1. How do I remove rust stains from my washing machine?
To remove rust stains from a washing machine, start by mixing equal parts of lemon juice and salt to form a paste. Apply the paste onto the rust stains and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then, scrub the stains with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse the area thoroughly with water. If the rust stains persist, you can try using white vinegar. Soak a cloth or sponge in white vinegar and apply it to the stains. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid using abrasive cleaners that may damage the machine.
2. What if the rust stains are stubborn and won’t come off?
If the rust stains on your washing machine are stubborn and won’t come off, you can try using a commercial rust remover. Look for a rust remover specifically designed for appliances and follow the instructions on the product. Be sure to choose a rust remover that is safe for your washing machine’s material. You may also consider contacting a professional appliance repair service for assistance if the stains persist.
3. How can I prevent rust stains from appearing on my washing machine?
To prevent rust stains from appearing on your washing machine, it’s important to keep the machine clean and dry. After each use, wipe down the inside of the machine with a clean cloth to remove any moisture and prevent the formation of rust. Regularly check for any signs of rust or damage and address them promptly. Additionally, avoid leaving wet clothes inside the machine for extended periods as this can promote rust formation. If you notice any leaks or excessive moisture, have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent rust and other issues.