Use any of the methods given below to remove iron-rust stains from white
materials. Test remover on sample of cloth before using on colored
materials.
Lemon juice.—Spread the stain over a pan of boiling water and then
squeeze lemon juice on it. After a few minutes rinse; then repeat the
process. This method is rather slow, but does not harm delicate white
cottons or linens. Another method is to sprinkle the stain with salt,
squeeze lemon juice on it, and spread in the sun to dry. Add more lemon
juice if the stain still shows. Rinse well.
Oxalic acid.—Spread the stained article over a bowl of hot water and
apply a few drops of oxalic acid solution (3 tablespoons of the crystals
to 1 pint of water). Or put the crystals of acid directly on the stain
and moisten with hot water. Rinse in hot water, and repeat until the
stain disappears. Do not use on weighted silk.
Cream of tartar.—Boil the stained article in a liquid made up of 4
teaspoons of cream of tartar to 1 pint of water. Rinse thoroughly.
Hydrosulfite.—Hydrosulfites available at drug stores as color removers
or dye-stripping agents also will remove rust stains. Follow directions
given on the package. Do not use on weighted silks.