Over time, metal cabinets can start to show signs of rust and corrosion, especially if they are located in areas with high humidity or exposure to water. But don’t worry – with a little time and effort, you can often restore rusty metal cabinets to look like new again! Here are some helpful tips for removing rust and restoring your metal cabinets.

Assess the Level of Rust

First, take a close look at the cabinets and determine how much rust there is and where it’s located. Is it just surface rust or Deep penetrating rust? Smaller spots will be easier to tackle than large amounts of Deep rust. Locate any heavily rusted areas and focus your initial rust removal efforts there first.

Remove Loose Rust with Steel Wool

Start by gently scrubbing the surface rust spots with 0000 grade steel wool. Apply elbow grease and work in the direction of the grain of the metal. The steel wool will scrape off the brittle rust without damaging the underlying metal. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands.

Use a Rust Remover Solution

For moderately rusted areas, you’ll want to use a commercial rust removal solution, which works to convert rust into a water-soluble compound that can be easily wiped away. Good options include Evapo-Rust, CLR Rust Remover or Naval Jelly Rust Dissolver. Apply the product liberally and let it sit for a while before scrubbing and wiping away the dissolved rust with rags. Be sure to follow all safety precautions listed on the product.

Try Vinegar and Baking Soda

For light surface rust, you can mix up your own non-toxic rust remover right in your kitchen. Simply fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water, and spray liberally over rust spots. Let set for a few minutes before scrubbing with baking soda and a damp sponge or cloth. The chemical reaction helps break down and dissolve light rust.

Use Sandpaper for Smoothing

After removing loose and dissolved rust, you’ll likely need to smooth out any remaining rough spots on the metal. Start by wiping off any rust remover residue and use 40-80 grit sandpaper to smooth away roughness or rust staining, being careful not to over-sand. Wipe clean and finish by sanding in the direction of the grain with 120-220 grit paper for a smooth finish.

Protect and Inhibit Future Rust

Once rust is removed, you’ll want to seal and protect the metal to prevent future rust. Clean the surface well before applying a metal primer like Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer, which chemically converts rust into a non-rusting compound. Follow with a finishing topcoat in your desired sheen. Maintaining your cabinets by promptly cleaning spills and regularly applying a protectant wax will help keep rust from returning.

When to Call a Professional

Extensive rust and corrosion, especially in structural components, may require professional assistance. Significant rust damage can compromise the strength and integrity of metal parts. A reputable welder can repair or replace severely corroded sections. Professionals also have commercial-grade rust blasting equipment for deep removal. Calling in help is wise if the rust is widespread or you want showroom quality results.

Safety Tips When Removing Rust

• Work in a well-ventilated area when using chemical rust removers and solvents. Follow all safety precautions listed on product labels.
• Wear heavy work gloves and eye protection when scrubbing, scraping or sanding rust to protect your hands and eyes.
• Dispose of rags containing rust remover properly, as they can self-ignite due to chemical reactions.
• Contain rusty debris so it doesn’t spread. Vacuum up any particles created from sanding.
• Use caution when climbing ladders or reaching high cabinets to avoid slips and falls.

How to Prevent Rust on Metal Cabinets

Once you’ve put in the elbow grease to restore your metal cabinets, you’ll want to take measures to keep rust from recurring. Protect your cabinets and inhibit rust with these tips:

Keep Cabinets Dry

Moisture is a catalyst for rust, so quick drying is key. Immediately wipe up spills and splatters on cabinets. Avoid draping damp towels or cloths over doors. Use exhaust fans or open windows when cooking or showering to ventilate humidity.

Apply Protective Topcoats

Sealing cabinets with finishes or topcoats adds a protective barrier against moisture and airborne contaminants which cause rust. Use an all-metal primer first, then apply your choice of varnish, polyurethane, lacquer, enamel or paint in multiple coats.

Maintain with Regular Cleaning and Waxing

Make it part of your regular cleaning routine to wipe down metal cabinet exteriors using a microfiber cloth and mild cleaner. Follow up by applying a polish or wax specifically formulated for metals. This maintains the protective coating while removing any dust or dirt before it can cause discoloration.

Install Ventilation Fans Near Cabinets

If your metal cabinets are near sources of excessive moisture like ovens, dishwashers or sinks, consider installing fans or kitchen vent hoods to improve air circulation and ventilation. This will prevent humid air from accumulating on cabinet surfaces.

Avoid Dents and Scratches

Small dings and scratches in the protective finish expose the raw metal underneath, allowing moisture and air to penetrate. Use care when cleaning cabinets to avoid damaging the surface. Fill any nicks with spackling paste and reapply topcoat to seal.

Watch for Signs of New Rust Formation

Check cabinets regularly for any new rust spots appearing. Address new rust right away with sanding and touch-ups to prevent expansion. Be diligent if rust keeps recurring in the same area, as there may be an underlying moisture issue.

Keep Cabinets Fully Dry After Cleaning

When wiping down metal cabinets, be sure to dry them thoroughly with a clean, soft towel afterwards. Eliminate any standing water droplets, crevices or undersides where moisture could hide and start rust. A hair dryer can help reach any tight areas.

Tips for Restoring a Rusty Metal Cabinet

Bringing an old, rusted metal cabinet back to life takes work, but is rewarding. Here are some top tips for tackling a full rusty cabinet restoration:

Remove Doors and Hardware

Start by removing cabinet doors, shelves and any hardware like hinges, drawer glides and knobs prior to cleaning. This allows complete access to all cabinet surfaces and corners while you work.

Clean and Prepare the Surface

Remove loose paint or rust flakes using sandpaper, steel wool or a wire brush. Wipe down with mineral spirits to degrease. Sand again lightly with fine grit sandpaper to smooth. Vacuum up all dust. The cleaner and rougher the surface, the better primers and finishes will adhere.

Spot Clean Severely Rusted Areas

Use a Dremel tool with a wire brush attachment to grind out any heavily rusted pitted areas, or sand by hand. Apply a rust converter product to convert any remaining rust into an inert protective barrier.

Prime Bare Metal

Applying metal primer immediately after cleaning creates a protective base layer and prevents flash rusting. Use a Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer primer or similar metal etching primer per product instructions. Allow to fully dry.

Fill Holes and Repair Damage

Use automotive body filler putty to fill any holes or dents. Allow to fully cure before sanding smooth. Bondo glazing putty works well for minor dings. Follow any repairs with spot priming.

Finish with Topcoats

Apply two to three finish coats for ample coverage and protection, lightly sanding between each. Options like powder coating, spray paints or enamels work well. Be sure to coat inside cabinet boxes and doors equally.

Replace Hardware

Reinstall cabinet hinges, handles and any shelving using new hardware if the existing pieces are also rusted or damaged. New hardware will give a nice finishing touch.

Be Gentle When Restoring Antiques

If working on vintage or antique cabinets, take extra care not to over-sand or expose more bare metal than necessary. Spot treat small areas of rust and maintain as much of the original patina as possible.

Restoring a heavily rusted metal cabinet takes some work, but it can be immensely satisfying to see the dramatic transformation. With time, effort and the right products, you can often salvage even severely neglected cabinets. Just be cautious of extensive rust damage that may impact the underlying structure.

FAQs About Removing Rust from Metal Cabinets

Q: What is the quickest way to remove rust from metal cabinets?

A: For quick rust removal, apply a commercial rust remover gel or solution like Evapo-Rust and allow it time to work before scrubbing and wiping away the dissolved rust. This helps break down rust in minutes compared to methods like sanding.

Q: Can I use Coke to remove rust from cabinets?

A: Yes, the carbonic and phosphoric acids in cola can dissolve light rust away. Spray or wipe the soda generously over the affected area, let sit for a few hours, then scrub and wipe clean. It may take a few applications.

Q: What removes rust permanently from metal?

A: There is no permanent one-step rust removal solution. For long-term rust prevention, you need to remove all rust, prime bare metal, and apply finish coats to isolate the surface and protect it from moisture and airborne contaminants that cause rust.

Q: Will vinegar get rid of rust on metal?

A: Yes, vinegar’s acetic acid reacts with and breaks down rust when applied for several hours. For lighter rust, use a 50/50 vinegar water solution. Straight vinegar works better on heavier rust buildup. Always scrub and wipe completely after application.

Q: How can I remove old thick rust without sanding?

A: For heavy rust, chemical removers are the easiest way to strip it without extensive sanding. Products like Naval Jelly or Phosphoric Acid will convert thick rust so it can be brushed or scraped away more easily down to bare metal. Always wear gloves!

Q: Can baking soda remove rust from metal?

A: When combined with something acidic like lemon juice or vinegar, the chemical reaction with baking soda help lift and break down light surface rust for easier scrubbing. It is not effective at removing heavier rust on its own without an acidic partner.

**Q: What neutralizes rust remover? **

A: Rust remover residue should be wiped away clean with water, not neutralized. But if you need to neutralize it quickly before proper clean up, use a solution of baking soda and water or household ammonia to render the acids neutral and not caustic.

Q: Does WD-40 remove rust from metal?

A: WD-40 can help lift surface rust and loosen stuck parts, but it doesn’t actually chemically break rust down and remove it. Use it in conjunction with other methods, but not as a standalone rust removal solution. The oil film left behind can attract dirt over time as well.

Conclusion

Rusty metal cabinets don’t have to be an eyesore. With some cleaning products and elbow grease, you can often transform them back to their former glory. The key steps are thoroughly removing all rust down to bare metal, priming to prevent new rust, and refinishing to protect the surface. While deep-set rust may require replacing damaged sections, mild to moderate rust can generally be removed through cleaning and sanding combined with rust-dissolving solutions. Restoring well-made vintage cabinets improves their appearance, adds value, and extends their lifespan, allowing you to continue enjoying them for years to come. Just be sure to take safety precautions when working with caustic cleaners, and maintain the new finish with regular waxing. With some smart techniques and care, those crusty cabinets will soon have a new lease on life!