There are dozens of home remedies that can be used on rusted metal: salt, oil, baking soda, vinegar and lemon, to name a few. When compared to the effectiveness of a scouring pad, they simply didn’t measure up.

What you’ll need:

• Box of scouring pads
• Bucket of water
• Clean wet rags
• Dry rags or paper towels
• Primer
• Paint Brush
• Exterior Paint

How to do it:

1. Since most rusted metal has been sitting outside for extended periods, start off by hosing the piece off to remove loose paint, dirt, cobwebs, etc.

2. Wet scouring pad in a bucket of water and scrub rusted areas vigorously until metal feels smooth to the touch. This should take about ten passes with the scouring pad. Work in small sections to prevent soap from drying on metal.

3. Rinse scrubbed area with wet rag and dry with a paper towel. If rust remains, repeat this process.

4. Once rust is fully removed and metal is dry, the piece is ready to be primed and painted. Prime piece to seal metal and prepare surface to accept paint. Allow ample dry time before painting.

5. Use a brush to apply a coat of exterior grade paint.