7 Best Rust Removers of 2023: Reviews, Buying Guide and FAQs

by Joshua Thomas

As its name suggests, the rust remover is a special type of product that allows you to remove rust and other forms of corrosion on metal very easily.

But one of the best things about this product is that most top-rated rust removers on the market requires no special equipment to handle and are non-toxic and safe to the skin.

Additionally, you get a lot of bang for the buck with the rust remover because it is very affordable and you normally don't need to use a lot of it which means that it will last you a long time.

If you are looking for a rust remover, then our review below will guide you in the right direction.

Top Rust Removers of 2023 by Editors' Picks
Top Rust Removers of 2023 by Editors' Picks

Summary of 7 Best Rust Removers

IMAGE PRODUCT FEATURES
Evapo-Rust Original Super Safe Rust Remover

1. Evapo-Rust ER012 (Best Overall)

  • Safe for children and pets
  • Very easy to use by anyone. Does not need any special equipment
  • Does not discolor the material
  • No bad odors
Turtle Wax T-280RA Chrome Polish & Rust Remover

2. Turtle Wax T-280RA

  • Versatile. A 2-in-1 solution that polishes and removes rust
  • Affordable and value for money
  • Easy to apply with only a piece of cloth
  • Provides a smooth and shiny finish
Workshop Hero Metal Rescue Rust Remover

3. Workshop Hero WH290487

  • Removes rust without scrubbing
  • Available in different sizes
  • Safe and does not react to the skin
Whink Rust Stain Remover

4. Whink 1232

  • Efficient and removes rust very quickly
  • Affordable and value for money
  • Does not produce odors or fumes
Boeshield RF0008

5. Boeshield RF0008

  • Removes stain and rust at the same time
  • Very easy to use
  • Environmentally Friendly
WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover

6. WD-40 300045

  • Very effective solution
  • Biodegradable and non-toxic
  • You get 1 gallon of rust remover. Value for money
CLR Calcium Lime Rust Remover

7. CLR Calcium Lime

  • Versatile. Removes calcium, lime, and rust
  • Can be used on any type of surface
  • Easy to apply with only a clean cloth

1. Evapo-Rust ER012 - Best Overall

Evapo-Rust Original Super Safe Rust Remover
Evapo-Rust Original Super Safe Rust Remover

The Evapo-Rust is a popular rust remover that is can be used to remove rust and other forms of corrosion on metal. One of the main features of this rust remover is that you do not need any special equipment to apply it. Indeed, even if it comes in contact with your skin, it is perfectly safe.

Additionally, this is one of the few rust removers that will not emit any bad odors and also contains additives that will protect the surface of your material from further corrosion.

When applied on materials like plastic, it will not affect the surface of the material, and above all, it will also not discolor it. It can also safely be used on paint, no problem.

All in all, when it comes to safety, the Evapo-Rust is the best rust remover for the money. Even if it is slightly more expensive. We highly recommend it, especially if you have pets and children around.

Also, just keep in mind that when compared to other products in this review, this rust remover is not ideal for removal of thick layers of rust because it is not quite as effective.

Pros

  • Safe for children and pets
  • No special equipment necessary for its application
  • Will not discolor materials like plastic or paint
  • Does not produce any bad odors or fumes

Cons

  • Not very effective for removing a thick layer of rust
  • Expensive when compared to other products

2. Turtle Wax T-280RA Rust Remover

Turtle Wax T-280RA Chrome Polish & Rust Remover
Turtle Wax T-280RA Chrome Polish & Rust Remover

One of the main distinctive features of the Turtle Wax is that it contains additives that not only removes rust from the surface of materials, but it also polishes.

Indeed, this rust remover will leave your material surface with a clean and shiny finish.

It does so by sticking on the surface of the material and reflecting light in such a way that it makes it shine under a light source. Also, this product will prevent any future oxidation of the surface that it protects.

Note that the Turtle Wax is mostly effective on surfaces like chrome. It is not specifically made to remove rust (iron oxide) or corrosion on metals like iron.

Moreover, it is also the most affordable product in this rust remover review so if the price is the main concern to yo; then the Turtle Wax is an excellent choice.

Notes: This product is mostly ideal for Chrome surfaces that have lightly rusted or corroded as it may leave a hazy look. It is not very effective on a thick layer of rust on metals like iron

Pros

  • The most affordable solution in this review
  • 2 in 1 solution. Removes rust and polishes
  • Very easy to apply with a piece of cloth
  • Provides a smooth and shiny finish

Cons

  • Limited rust removal capabilities, especially for thick layers of rust
  • Can leave a hazy look on chrome surfaces

3. Workshop Hero WH290487 Rust Remover

Workshop Hero Metal Rescue Rust Remover
Workshop Hero Metal Rescue Rust Remover

One big problem that most rust removers on the market phase are scrubbing. After you have applied the rust removal solution, you will need to scrub so as to remove the rust from the material surface.

This is not a problem with the Workshop Hero because there is simply no scrubbing necessary. It will automatically remove any rust, even if it is a thick layer of iron oxide.

In addition, this rust remover is available in different sizes, from 32 oz for smalltime usage up to 5 gallons for those who need to remove rust on a large surface area.

Also, this rust remover is perfectly safe as it is not acidic and does not cause any harm to the skin. There is simply no equipment necessary to apply this rust remover.

Therefore, the Workshop Hero is without a doubt one of the best rust removers for metal that you can currently buy. It is versatile, efficient, and safe to use.

Notes: The action time of this rust remover will depend on the thickness of rust that you have to remove. This rust removal can take up to 24 hours for very thick rust layers. However, it usually takes around 5 to 15 minutes to remove small layers of rust on metal.

Pros

  • No scrubbing necessary
  • Flexible. Available in different sizes to suit your need
  • Easy to use. No equipment necessary
  • Safe. Does not react or damage the skin

Cons

  • Slow action. Can take up to 24 hours to remove the rust

4. Whink 1232 Rust Remover

Whink Rust Stain Remover
Whink Rust Stain Remover

If you don't have to remove rust on a big surface, then the Whink is an excellent choice to consider as it is very efficient in removing rust quickly and easily. It is available in a 32 oz container, and the product itself is actually a wax rather than a liquid.

In order to use it to remove the stain on the surface of materials, you will need to use a piece of dry cloth and perform a rubbing action to remove the rust.

All this may sound like a lot of work. However, it is very easy to use and quite effective. Additionally, it does not affect the surface of the material and will provide a long-lasting protective effect.

One other area where this rust remover is quite effective is in the automobile department.

Indeed, if you have to remove small stains and rust on the surface of your car paint, then the Whink will prove to be quite effective.

It is definitely one of the best automobile rust removers on the market, especially considering its very affordable price.

The only problem we have with this rust remover is that you require intensive rubbing for it to work. You also get only 32 ounces of rust remover so it is definitely not for big surfaces.

Notes: For better efficiency, it is recommended to always use a piece of microfiber dry cloth when applying this rust remover

Pros

  • Affordable. Value for money
  • Efficient product. Can remove rust quickly and easily
  • No fumes and no odor
  • Very durable and provides the treated surface with a long-lasting effect

Cons

  • Requires intensive rubbing for it to remove the rust
  • For small surface areas. Available in only a 32 oz bottle

5. Boeshield RF0008 Rust Remover

Boeshield RF0008
Boeshield RF0008

If you are looking for a small general-purpose rust remover that can also remove stains, then this product by Boeshield is an excellent grab. It is an excellent 2-in-1 solution.

It comes in a small 8 oz container which is definitely not a lot, but if you don't have a lot of rust or stain to remove, then it will be just fine. Moreover, you do not have to use a lot of this product for it to work effectively.

This product is a spray on, and you simply remove the cap and spray it on the rust or stain that you want to remove.

Best, it is effective on all metals and porcelain materials. It is also perfectly safe as well as biodegradable, so it is fully environmentally friendly.

Pros

  • 2-in-1 solution. Removes stains as well as rust
  • Very easy to use
  • Environmentally friendly. Biodegradable and no toxic fumes

Cons

  • Small quantity. You get only 8 oz of product

6. WD-40 300045 Rust Remover

WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover
WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover

The WD-40 Specialist remains one of the most popular as well as the best rust remover on the market. It is an extremely effective rust remover that can remove any type of rust on any surfaces quickly and easily.

This product uses an advanced formula and various additives that makes it very effective in removing rust as well as any type of stains on the surface of materials.

It is fully biodegradable, so it is environmentally friendly. In addition, it does not use any acid or caustic chemicals to remove the rust, so it is perfectly safe to the hand. You do not need any special equipment to apply this rust removal.

You can use this product to restore any type of metal surfaces, and once you have applied it, the surface will become brand-new again. Therefore, it is ideal for any general-purpose rust removal ranging from the home to automotive usage.

Notes: Unlike other rust removers in this review, you need to apply more WD-40 for it to have the necessary concentration to remove thick layers of rust. You definitely need more of this product to remove rust.

Also, be advised that this rust remover has an odor to it and it will take some time for the odor to go away after application.

Pros

  • You get a 1 gallon of WD-40 rust remover
  • Biodegradable and non-toxic. No special equipment necessary
  • Versatile. Can be used almost anywhere

Cons

  • Has a slight odor
  • You need to use a lot for it to be effective

7. CLR Calcium Lime Rust Remover

CLR Calcium Lime Rust Remover
CLR Calcium Lime Rust Remover

This CLR product is a very effective calcium lime formula that will not only remove stains and rust from metal, but it also contains additives that will help remove calcium as well as lime on any surface.

You can use it to clean glass, porcelain, plastic or metal. It will not degrade the surface of the material or create a deposit.

Moreover, one of the best things about this product is that you do not have to perform any scrubbing as it will automatically remove any stains and rust.

This CLR product is a great general-purpose stain remover, and anyone who performs any type of cleaning should own it.

All in all, due to its versatility, we nominate this product as one of the best rust removers for metal, as well as other types of materials like porcelain and plastic.

Notes: This CLR rust remover is not recommended for removing thick layers of rust on the surface of materials. As it is not effective or fast acting when compared to other rust removers in this review.

You also get only 28 ounces of rust remover so it may not be enough if you have to remove rust on a large surface area.

Pros

  • Removes not only rust but also calcium as well as lime
  • Versatile. Can be used on any type of surface
  • Easy to apply. All you need is a clean cloth

Cons

  • Not as strong or effective when compared to other rust removers
  • You only get 28 oz of product

How to Buy the Best Rust Removers

How To Buy The Best Rust Remover
How To Buy The Best Rust Remover

1. Types of Rust

Rust is mostly iron oxide, and most rust removers contain additives and chemicals that will easily break down the rust.

In fact, most top-rated rust removers can breakdown rust in a few hours, while others will need soaking for at least 24 hours before the rust can be removed.

Furthermore, there is another type of rust which is in the form of corrosion. This is usually a mix of metal and metal oxides that have oxidized with oxygen.

In addition, material that comes in contact with saltwater is also known to produce rust faster and should regularly be treated with a rust remover.

2. Form of Application

There are several types of rust removers on the market that have different application procedures.

For example, the spray rust remover is mostly for those who want to remove rust on a small surface area but in a hard to reach the place.

Since the spray can reach long distances, it is suitable for this type of rust removal. The spray system is also one of the easiest rust removers to use.

The only caveat is that the spray rust remover normally comes in a spray bottle that is less than 1 L in capacity.

If you have a larger surface to remove rust from, you may consider the gallon rust remover.

This type of rust remover usually comes in a gallon-size plastic container, and you need to apply the product with a paintbrush.

At the end of the day, you will need to choose a rust remover based on your need and purpose.

3. Toxicity

You don't want to use a rust remover that is toxic and may affect your health.

Furthermore, it is best to choose a rust remover that is chemically neutral when it comes in contact with your skin. It will be safer, especially if you have pets or children around.

Also, you need to take into account the odor of the rust remover. Try to avoid rust removers that have a pungent smell because a bad smell does not dictate how effective the rust remover will be.

4. Ease of Use

One of the best things about the rust remover is its ease of use.

You simply have to spray or soak the rust in the rust remover for it to start working.

With most rust removers, you don't even have to run for it to remove the stains or rust. It will automatically dissolve the rust for you. Neat!

Furthermore, there are some rust removers that work instantly while others may require soaking for at least 24 hours.

5. Surface Treatment

Before applying the rust remover, it is important to thoroughly clean the rusted surface. This will allow the rust remover to enter the pores of the metal oxides and have a more effective effect.

Additionally, the versatility of the rust remover is important. One of the good things about the rust remover is that it also contains additives that allow it to remove regular stains from materials as well.

Therefore, most rust removers can be used in every situation and place where rust and stains in general needs to be removed, from the kitchen sink to the bathroom floor.


Buy on Walmart

Evapo-Rust ER004 Super Safe Rust Remover - 32 oz., Non Toxic Rust Remover for Auto Parts, - Walmart Link

Iron OUT Spray Gel Rust Stain Remover, Remove and Prevent Rust Stains in Bathrooms, - Walmart Link

Whink 1261 Rust Stain Remover, 6 Oz, 6 Fl Oz - Walmart Link

Rust-Oleum, Black, 248658 Rust Reformer Spray, 10.25 oz, 10.25 Ounce (Pack of 1), 10 Ounce - Walmart Link

Quick-Glo - Original, 8 oz - Chrome Cleaner & Rust Remover, Featured on Jay Leno's - Walmart Link

CLR PRO Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover, 1 Gallon Bottle (Packaging May Vary) - Walmart Link

Lime-A-Way Lime Calcium Rust Cleaner, 22 oz (Pack of 2) - Walmart Link

Goof Off No Scent Rust Stain Remover 1 Spray - Walmart Link

Rust911: Makes 2-gallons of Rust Remover Concentrated Dissolver | Economical, Safe-to-Use - Walmart Link

Workshop Hero WH290487 Metal Rescue Rust Remover - 1 Gallon - Walmart Link

WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover Soak, One Gallon - Walmart Link

POR-15 Rust Remover - 1 qt - Rust Dissolving solution | Reusable and Biodegradable | Safe - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Evapo-Rust ER004 Super Safe Rust Remover - 32 oz., Non Toxic Rust Remover for Auto Parts, - eBay Link

Iron OUT Spray Gel Rust Stain Remover, Remove and Prevent Rust Stains in Bathrooms, - eBay Link

Whink 1261 Rust Stain Remover, 6 Oz, 6 Fl Oz - eBay Link

Rust-Oleum, Black, 248658 Rust Reformer Spray, 10.25 oz, 10.25 Ounce (Pack of 1), 10 Ounce - eBay Link

Quick-Glo - Original, 8 oz - Chrome Cleaner & Rust Remover, Featured on Jay Leno's - eBay Link

CLR PRO Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover, 1 Gallon Bottle (Packaging May Vary) - eBay Link

Lime-A-Way Lime Calcium Rust Cleaner, 22 oz (Pack of 2) - eBay Link

Goof Off No Scent Rust Stain Remover 1 Spray - eBay Link

Rust911: Makes 2-gallons of Rust Remover Concentrated Dissolver | Economical, Safe-to-Use - eBay Link

Workshop Hero WH290487 Metal Rescue Rust Remover - 1 Gallon - eBay Link

WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover Soak, One Gallon - eBay Link

POR-15 Rust Remover - 1 qt - Rust Dissolving solution | Reusable and Biodegradable | Safe - eBay Link

Conclusion for Rust Remover Buyers

Rust removal is a universal task as a rust and corrosion can happen almost anywhere there is metal.

With the rust remover, you can quickly and easily remove any rust without damaging the surface of your material.

Furthermore, many rust removers come with additives and chemicals that will not only remove rust but also help protect the surface of your material from further corrosion.

Our rust remover review above contains some affordable and quality rust removers. If you have not made your selection yet, read the review again as you may have missed something.

About Joshua Thomas

Joshua Thomas just simply loves cars and willing to work on them whenever there's chance... sometimes for free.

He started CarCareTotal back in 2017 from the advices of total strangers who witnessed his amazing skills in car repairs here and there.

His goal with this creation is to help car owners better learn how to maintain and repair their cars; as such, the site would cover alot of areas: troubleshooting, product recommendations, tips & tricks.

Joshua received Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at San Diego State University.

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