How to Get Rust Off Stainless Steel
In the event that your stainless steel utensils do have rust on them, follow these instructions to remove it.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda in 2 cups of water.
- Rub the baking soda solution on the rust stain using a toothbrush. Baking soda is non-abrasive and will gently lift the rust stain from the stainless steel. It also will not damage the grain of the stainless steel.
- Rinse and wipe the spot with wet paper towel. You will see the rust on the paper towel [source: Do It Yourself].
Here are some general tips about removing rust from stainless steel:
- Never use strong abrasive scouring powders, as they will scratch the surface and remove the finish.
- Never use steel wool, as it will scratch the surface.
- Try out any abrasive powder in a corner of the utensil, where it will not be so noticeable, and see if scratches the surface [source: BSSA].