How to Remove Rust from Carpet

Rust is a reddish-brown material that forms on the surface of iron and steel objects when exposed to oxygen and moisture. In scientific terms, rust is called iron oxide. It’s an unsightly, crumbly blemish that’s easily transferable to other soft surfaces — like carpet.

When metal objects such as furniture, decorations, potted plants, or tools are exposed to water, they can corrode and develop rust, which can lead to reddish/orange stains on carpet. Often, by the time the property owner notices the rust stain, it has been left on the carpet for quite some time, making it challenging to remove.
 

The experts at Jon-Don have put together this guide to help carpet cleaning professionals properly remove rust stains from carpets. With the proper knowledge, products, and processes, you can tackle this spot and bring carpets back to their pre-rust state.

Where Does Rust Come From and How Can It End Up on Carpet?

Rust can find its way onto carpet in a number of ways. Here are a few examples:

• Metal furniture or objects (most common): If you have metal furniture or objects with rust on the legs or base, prolonged contact with the carpet can transfer the rust to the carpet fibers. Additionally, if a carpet is wet, such as after a deep cleaning, placing metal objects onto it without letting the carpet sufficiently dry or without placing a barrier such as a block or tab underneath the furniture, can cause rust to form.
• Leaky pipes or appliances: If there are metal pipes or appliances in the vicinity of the carpet that are leaking or have condensation, rust-contaminated water can drip down onto the carpet and create a stain. This may be found most often in basements or bathrooms with carpeting.
• Metal tools or hardware: Placing rusted metal tools or hardware on the carpet can lead to rust stains. This could happen during a home repair, either by a contractor or the property owner.
• Water damage: If the carpet has been exposed to water damage and there are metal components in the affected area (such as nails, screws, or other metal items), the combination of water and metal can contribute to rust stains.
  
  

No matter what the source of the stubborn rust stain is, a good rust remover and thorough hot water extraction can help with spot removal. Thankfully, Jon-Don’s recommended process for removing rust from the carpet is fairly straightforward.

How to Remove Rust from Carpet: Step-by-Step

Warning and cautions: Before getting started, always test materials for colorfastness, follow label directions, and never mix products unless specified on the label.

1. Thoroughly vacuum the area to remove any dirt, debris, or crusty rust residue.
2. Apply Matrix® Rust Eradicator undiluted to the area and gently work it in with a bone spatula.
3. Thoroughly rinse and extract the carpet with Matrix® Confidence Premium Extraction Detergent.
4. If using a truck mount, dilute at a ratio of 32 oz per 5 gallons of water to make a stock solution.
5. If using a portable, dilute at a ratio of 2 oz per 5 gallons of water.
6. Dilute 4-6 oz of Matrix® All Fiber Rinse into a pump-up sprayer and apply to the carpet. Groom fibers with a Grandi Groom Carpet Brush to speed up the drying process.
7. If furniture must be placed back onto the carpet, place blocks or tabs under the legs to prevent moisture from coming into contact with the surface.
8. Speed up drying with an air mover.

We understand that not everyone has immediate access to the professional products and tools that will produce the best results possible. As such, our experts have put together a home remedy solution that may help to remove rust stains from carpet in a pinch, or until you can acquire the proper products.

Home Remedies for Rust Carpet Removal

Before applying any homemade cleaning solution to the carpet, test it in an inconspicuous area to ensure it won't cause discoloration or damage.

Here’s what you’ll need for this home remedy:

• Clean white cloth or paper towel
• White vinegar and water OR lemon juice and salt (choose one set or the other)
• Table salt
• Clean water to rinse
• A vacuum
  
  

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary materials, follow these steps:

1. Use a clean, dry white cloth or paper towel to blot as much of the rust stain as possible without spreading it.
2. Option 1: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
3. Option 2: Mix lemon juice with salt to form a paste.
4. Apply your chosen solution directly to the rust stain. Sprinkle on a generous amount of salt and gently agitate the area with your fingers to loosen rust particles.
5. Allow the solution to sit on the rust stain for about 10-15 minutes.
6. Blot the stained area with a clean cloth or paper towel to lift the rust. You can also gently scrub the area with a soft brush or an old toothbrush.
7. Rinse the treated area with clean water to remove any residue.
8. Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to blot the treated area and remove excess moisture.
9. If the stain persists, you may need to repeat the process or consider using a commercial rust stain remover designed for carpets.
10. Once the carpet is dry, vacuum the area.

Rust on Carpet FAQ

So, what shouldn’t you use on your carpet to remove a stubborn rust stain? Check out these FAQs to learn about common misconceptions about what can be used to clean rust from carpets.

Can You Use CLR on Carpet?

No! CLR contains strong chemicals that can break down your carpet fibers. While it’s great for removing rust from hard surfaces, such as counters, fixtures, sinks, coffee makers, and appliances, you shouldn’t use it on carpet or upholstery.

Does Dish Soap Remove Rust Stains?

Dish soap or other household detergent may remove some of the rust particles causing the stain. Though it may somewhat improve the area, for best results, our experts recommend using a rust stain remover specifically formulated for use on carpet.

Can WD40 Remove Rust Stains From Carpet?

WD40 was originally manufactured as a rust deterrent for the aerospace industry. While it does help prevent rust from forming on metal objects, it shouldn’t be used on soft surfaces like carpet and upholstery.

Learn More Spot Removal Techniques

With the proper training and knowledge, you can tackle rust and even tougher carpet stains like a true professional. The experts at Jon-Don recommend attending an upcoming IICRC Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) seminar where you’ll learn how to:

• Identify different carpet fibers and understand the science of carpet cleaning
• Treat an array of carpet stains and spots with care
• Choose the most appropriate cleaning solutions and tools for each job
• And much, much more!
  
  

Earn your IICRC certification in carpet cleaning and confidently handle any carpet cleaning challenge thrown your way. To register, visit our course page.

For more spot-removal tips and advice, visit our spotting library.