Are you thinking of replacing that old rusty faucet?
I know. It’s gross to even look at the thing, not to mention the risk of rust seeping into your water.
However, the corrosion could just be on the outside of the faucet.
If that’s the case, then you can put away the wrench. My friend Mr. Baking Soda is here to help you out.
Baking soda is very effective for removing rust from a corroded faucet. Just make a paste by combining baking soda and water. Then use a scrub sponge or brush and scrub away.
Try the 6 simple steps below and, maybe it will save you a couple of bucks.
Here’s how I use baking soda to clean a rusty faucet. Let’s get started.
What you’ll need:
Baking Soda
Cloth, scrub sponge, or brush
Water
Optional: Dishwashing soap
Steps on How to Clean a Faucet with Baking Soda:
1. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 2-3 tablespoons of water. You can also add a few drops of dishwashing soap if you want.
2. After combining the ingredients, mix well. You should have a thick paste. I find the thicker the paste that I use, the easier it is to scrub off the rust.
3. Apply the paste to your faucet.
4. After that, scrub the faucet vigorously with a piece of cloth or brush. You’ll notice the rust start to come off.
5. Keep scrubbing until you are satisfied with the result. I switch between scrubbing with a cloth and scrub sponge depending on the hardness of the rust.
6. Rinse the faucet with water and dry it with a cloth. Your faucet should look much cleaner.
For Serious Faucet Rust
For a seriously rusted faucet, you can try spraying vinegar or lemon juice directly on it.
Let it sit for about 20-30 minutes before you start scrubbing with baking soda paste.
You want to give the acid enough time to soften the rust before you scrub it with the baking soda paste.
Will Baking Soda Scratch My Faucets’ Polish?
Baking soda is mildly abrasive and could scratch smooth surfaces.
Better check the manufacturer’s guide to make sure you don’t destroy your faucet’s polish.
Faucet Rust Prevention
Always keep your faucet clean and dry to prevent rusting.
What is the Best Material for a Faucet?
When it comes to choosing a faucet, there are several materials to consider, including brass, stainless steel, chrome, nickel, and bronze.
According to Daniel, a master plumber, stainless steel, and brass are great options if you want easy-to-clean and rust-resistant faucets.
Solid brass faucets are durable and long-lasting. They are resistant to corrosion and rust, making them an excellent choice for areas with hard water. In addition, brass has a natural antimicrobial property that helps to keep the faucet clean and hygienic. Brass faucets also tend to have a classic and elegant look, which can add a touch of sophistication to any bathroom or kitchen.
Stainless steel faucets are also a popular choice, thanks to their durability and low-maintenance properties. They are resistant to corrosion and rust, which means they are less likely to develop unsightly stains or spots. Stainless steel faucets are also very easy to clean, and they are naturally hygienic. In addition, stainless steel has a sleek and modern look that can complement many different styles of decor.
Both brass and stainless steel faucets tend to be more expensive than other materials, but they are well worth the investment. Not only do they look great, but they also provide reliable and long-lasting performance.
When choosing a faucet, it’s important to consider not just the style and design, but also the materials used, to ensure that you get a high-quality and durable product that will serve you well for years.
Faucet Maintenance
To keep your faucet clean and rust-free, try these tips:
- Wipe down your faucet regularly: Wipe your faucet down regularly with a dry cloth to prevent water from sitting on the surface and causing rust.
- Address leaks quickly: If you notice a leaky faucet, address the problem as soon as possible to prevent water from sitting on the surface and causing rust.
- Keep the area around the faucet dry: To prevent rust from forming, try to keep the area around your faucet as dry as possible. Wipe up any spills or drips immediately.
Why It’s Important to Keep Faucets Clean
Here are some reasons why:
- Rusting: Faucets are often made of metal components, such as brass or stainless steel, that can rust when exposed to moisture for long periods of time. Rust can damage the faucet’s structure, and even contaminate the water flowing through it. Keeping your faucet clean and dry can help prevent rusting.
- Mineral Buildup: Hard water can leave mineral deposits on your faucet, which can lead to discoloration and even clogging. Regular cleaning can help prevent mineral buildup.
- Hygiene: Faucets are frequently used to wash our hands, dishes, and other objects. Dirt, grime, and bacteria can accumulate on the faucet’s surface over time, potentially causing health problems. Regular cleaning and drying can help keep the faucet free of harmful bacteria and promote good hygiene.
- Aesthetics: A clean and dry faucet looks much better than a dirty and water-stained one. A well-maintained faucet can enhance the appearance of your bathroom or kitchen and make a good impression on your guests.
When to Call a Professional:
While cleaning a rusty faucet with baking soda can be an effective DIY solution, there are situations where a professional may be necessary. Consider calling a professional if:
- The rust is severe: If the rust on your faucet is particularly severe, it may require professional help to repair or replace the faucet.
- The faucet is leaking: If your faucet is leaking, it may require professional help to repair or replace the faucet.
- You’re not comfortable with DIY repairs: If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, it may be best to call a professional to avoid causing further damage to your faucet.
Conclusion:
There you have it.
That’s how I clean a rusty faucet with the help of baking soda.
I hope that you found this post helpful.
If you’re looking for more info about the many use of baking soda, please read my articles on how I use baking soda to clean the toilet and remove burnt food from a pan if you have time.
Thank you for reading. Until next time!
– Baking Soda Guy
References:
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/how-to-remove-rust-from-metal-surfaces
https://www.wowowfaucet.com/best-material-for-kitchen-and-bathroom-faucets/
Top Photo by Skitterphoto from Pexels
