Remove Rust From Bolts Without Taking Them Out Using A Tool You Already Own

Rusty bolts are one of those small home issues that feel incredibly annoying, especially when the bolt itself won't budge from where it's installed. When you realize the bolt head is covered in rust, it's easy to assume you're stuck living with it or that you'll need to call in a professional just to get it clean. Before you go down either of those paths, it's worth trying something much simpler. In fact, the solution may already be sitting in your toolbox.

One of the easiest ways to remove rust from a bolt that you can't take out is by using a stiff wire brush. Most people already own one for cleaning grills, prepping surfaces for staining, or brushing debris off tools. Paired with a rust-removal spray or WD-40, you can break down surface oxidation without touching the bolt's installation. The process is inexpensive, doesn't require advanced DIY skills, and doesn't take long at all to complete. Along with your wire brush and rust-removal spray, you'll also need a dry cloth. 

Because rust tends to spread and weaken metal over time, finding an easy way to treat it early can help prevent larger structural issues. This simple approach keeps things functional without taking apart whatever the bolt is keeping in place. This hack works well for bolts you can't remove, but if you do want to take them out, here are some helpful ways to easily remove stubborn, rusted bolts.

Before applying anything, take the stiff wire brush and begin scrubbing the bolt head. Focus on the areas where the bolt meets the surface it's installed into, and be sure to clean around any washers as well. This first round of scrubbing will knock off loose rust and give your spray a better chance to attack the more stubborn problem. Once you've brushed away the top layer, spray the rust remover or lubricant directly onto the bolt head and the surrounding area. Make sure the metal is fully coated, then step away for about 15 minutes.

Letting the spray sit is important because it gives the product time to break down the oxidation that the brush alone can't remove. Next, go back in with the wire brush and scrub again. This time, focus on the thread and any stubborn rust patches that didn't lift the first time. When you're satisfied, apply one last light coat of your spray and wipe everything clean with a dry cloth. 

This method works because rust forms on the surface of metal, and mechanical abrasion paired with a dissolving agent can remove it without disturbing the bolt's installation. It' a great option for bolts on outdoor fixtures, fences, or workshop equipment. However, if you've found rust in other places, such as the bathtub, here's how to zap away bathtub rust with just a potato. Simple maintenance such as this will help extend the life of your fixtures and stop rust from spreading. Finally, if you want to replace the bolts instead of cleaning them, you can make removing rusty bolts a breeze with a kitchen essential.