How can I remove rust stains from my concrete front porch? -Ted

Hi Ted,

There are a lot of claims out there of miracle rust removers, but my experience has been that it is next to impossible to remove rust stains from concrete. In fact, rust (iron oxide) is often the key ingredient used by professionals to stain a concrete floor, and concrete stains aren’t meant to be removed, so I wouldn’t waste my money on high-priced chemicals.

Instead, try making a thick paste from Arm & Hammer Laundry Detergent, which contains baking soda, and scrubbing it into the stain with a scrub brush.

You may need to leave it on the rust stain for an hour or more, but be sure to continually mist the paste with water. Otherwise, the detergent paste will harden and become ineffective. A final scrub with a wire brush, then rinse with a hose, and . . . you’ll probably still have the rust stain, but it may be a shade or two lighter!

Another natural option you might try is to cut a lemon in half, and rub in on the rust stain. Allow the lemon juice to remain on the concrete for a time before hosing it off.

The very best option would probably be to stain the entire porch so it matches the color of the rust stain!

Good luck with your project,

Further Information

• Rust Stains on Concrete (audio)
• White Efflorescence Stains on Retaining Walls (article)
• How to Acid Stain a Concrete Slab Porch or Patio (video/article)

Tags: , clean, cleaners, cleaning, concrete, rust