3 Ways to Clean Tools

Rust is a product of a chemical reaction; the chemical name for it is iron oxide. It appears when the iron in tools is exposed to oxygen in the presence of water. Therefore, damp conditions for tools can be harmful, and you should always try to keep your tools away from moisture. This guide will offer the most effective ways to clean and remove rust from tools. 

Important Note: Prior to using any of the products mentioned, it is highly recommended to thoroughly read and understand all safety precautions associated with each product. It is also strongly advised to perform a patch test before proceeding with usage.

Please be advised that this guide is intended for informational purposes only and APC Pure cannot accept any responsibility for the outcome of any usage based on this guide.

Acetic Acid Method

Acid is a great rust remover and can instantly clear small bits of rust.

Here are the materials you'll need:

• Acetic Acid 6%
• Distilled Water
• Bucket
• Gloves

Make sure you are wearing gloves and a long sleeve top at all times to protect your hands and skin

Step 1: Place your tools into a bucket and pour the Acetic Acid 6% over the tools. (We suggest using a large bucket to make sure all the tools are soaked).

Step 2: Make sure the Acetic Acid 6% covers the tools completely and hits all areas.

Step 3: Leave to soak for one day.

Step 4: Pour out the Acetic Acid 6% and rinse with Distilled Water.

Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate Method

Sodium Bicarbonate causes dirt and grease to dissolve in water, making this a very effective rust remover and all-round cleaner.

Here are the materials you'll need:

• Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate
• Distilled Water
• Bucket
• Brush

Step 1: Pour Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate into a large bucket.

Step 2: Add Distilled Water to create a paste-type mixture.

Step 3: Apply the paste to the rusted area and let it sit for a few hours.

Step 4: Once the tools have soaked, scrub the paste off with a brush.

Oxalic Acid Method

Oxalic acid is one of the most used ways to clean tools; it is effective in removing rust because it converts most insoluble iron compounds into a soluble complex ion.

Here are the materials you'll need:

• Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate
• Oxalic Acid Dihydrate 99.6%
• Distilled Water
• Bucket
• Gloves
• Safety Goggles

Make sure you are wearing gloves and a long sleeve top at all times to protect your hands and skin

Step 1: Start by washing the tools following the Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate method as shown above. This will thoroughly cleanse away the dirt and oil on the tools.

Step 2: Add one gallon (4 litres) of Distilled Water to a container. Your container should be large enough to hold the Distilled Water and your tools. If you need more Distilled Water, then adjust the amount of acid to match the water quantity.

Step 3: Add three tablespoons of Oxalic Acid to the Distilled Water. Carefully mix the acid into the water. Be careful not to splash the acid onto yourself or the surrounding work area.

Step 4: Soak your tools in the container. Add your tools to the acid solution and leave them to sit for 20 minutes. The acid needs time to break down the rust. Soak your tools in the container. Add your tools to the acid solution and leave them to sit for 20 minutes. The acid needs time to break down the rust.

Step 5: Rinse and dry the tools. Wash away the remaining acid in clean water, and then completely dry the tools.