How to Remove Rust From Carpets and Clothes

Sometimes a little water spill on the carpet seems like a negligible thing, until you move the metal-based floor lamp, Christmas tree stand, or other metallic furniture, and discover that you now have a neat little rust mark where the water went.

For rust on the carpet, put lemon juice in a spray bottle, either concentrated, or fresh squeezed, but don't dilute it. Wet the spot well, then blot with a clean cloth. Don't rub or you'll spread the color around the fibers. If it's not completely gone, try blotting with a weak solution of six drops dish detergent to four cups of water, and use a damp towel.

Occasionally, someone in the family manages to get rust marks on their clothing. This can be from brushing up against old metal, or if you live in an area of heavy iron content in the water, sometimes an entire load of laundry can end up with marks on them.

For a single item of clothing, you can try squeezing a fresh lemon on the stain, and then sprinkling it with salt. Let set for 30 minutes, then launder. But remember that not all fabrics will be suited to all stain removal methods, and a small hidden area should be tested first.

When you have a number of items that are stained because of a water problem, your best bet is a commercial rust removing solution. Be aware however, that most of these are made with caustic chemicals. Check your fabrics first before washing, and read the labels completely with regard to handling and ventilation while using. If you want to try a basic remedy first, before going the chemical route, try running the whole load through a wash cycle with no soap or bleach, just one cup of fabric softener.