If you live in an older home, you may have wrought iron balusters aligning your staircase. However, they may have become worn and rusty with age, and you would like to find a way to remove the rust so you can restore them. If so, follow the three steps below for removing the rust on your balusters.

Step 1:  Apply Vinegar On Rusty Areas

The first step in removing the rust on your iron balusters is to soak the areas of oxidation with white distilled vinegar. The acetic acid can penetrate into the surface layer of the rust, softening it for easier removal.

Use a soft, clean rag to dab the rusty areas with undiluted vinegar. Once each area is saturated with the liquid, let it remain for about an hour to give it time to soak in. Then, go on to the second step.

Step 2:  Scrub The Rusty With A Steel 

After giving the vinegar time to work on the rust, the next step involves scrubbing the excess rust with steel. For the flat surfaces, you can use steel wool pads. When working on each area, move the pad in small circles to ensure you don't miss any of the rust.

For any ornate designs, use a small steel wire brush. When working with the brush, use small sawing motions in one direction, such as up and down, then follow by going sideways.

Use a clean damp cloth to wipe away the vinegar and rusty residue. Check for any rust that you may have missed. If you find any, repeat steps one and two until all areas have been cleaned. Let the iron dry completely, then go on to the third step.

Step 3:  Sand The Balusters To A Smooth Finish

After the wrought iron is clean and dry, use medium-grit sandpaper to give it a smooth finish. This will give your finishing coat a soft sheen without any rough areas showing through.

Fold a sheet of sandpaper into quarters to sand the flat areas. For the ornamentation, fold it further into strips that fit easily into the holes to reach all of the areas.

Once you have completed the steps, you can either spray paint the balusters with a clear coating or a shiny black lacquer paint. However, if you have found extensive damage, you may want to see about buying new wrought iron balusters that closely match the ones already in your home.