Rust is terrible for keys because it gives them a misshapen and damaged look, to the point that one may not function.

Keys are prone to rust due to exposure to moisture, which causes the rust to affect how the key fits into a lock in terms of dissolving the shape of the key.

This prevents the key from being inserted into the lock because the rough tooth split is worn out. This also means that you can’t get another replacement copy as the original is ruined.

Now, imagine if you get stuck in an emergency lockout.

This is why, in this blog post, we’ll explain how to clean rusty keys and how to prevent rust from forming on them in the first place.

Let’s get started!

How to Clean Rusty Keys With Vinegar: A Step-by-Step Guide

With time, the key may rust when it gets exposed to damp or humid conditions.

In this detailed tutorial, we’ll guide you step-by-step on removing rust from your keys to restore both their functionality and appearance.

We will also provide you with some valuable tips on how to prevent future rust formation at the end of the blog, keep reading.

Use these easy steps to effectively remove rust from your keys:

Step 1: Rub With a Damp Cloth

Begin by using a damp cloth and scrubbing the keys vigorously. This will remove loose rust, making subsequent steps easier.

Step 2: Soak the Keys in a Bowl of Soapy Water

Prepare a bowl filled with warm, soapy water. Immerse the keys in the mixture and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. Once done, remove the keys, rinse them with clean water, and thoroughly dry them using a cloth.

Step 3: Remove the Rust with Vinegar

Take another glass and pour undiluted vinegar, covering the key wholly. Heat this vinegar in the microwave for a few seconds, but do not dilute it with water since its effectiveness may lose some potency.

Let the keys sit in the vinegar for about three hours.

Afterward, remove the keys from the container, rinse them with clean water, and use a thick bristle brush to scrub away any remaining rust. Finally, dry the keys using a cloth.

Step 4: Thoroughly Rub the Remaining Rust Away

Repeat the process of rinsing the keys thoroughly in clean water. Then, using the thick bristle brush, remove any lingering remnants of rust. Dry the keys completely with a cloth so that any newly instituted rust is not formed.

Latest Read: How to Create a Spare Key: Step-by-Step Instructions

4 Ways To Remove Rust from Metal: Bonus DIYs

If you are wondering about how to clean rusty keys besides using vinegar, then check out these four ways below:

• Baking Soda Rust Removal
• Potato and Dish Soap Rust Removal
• Citric Acid Rust Removal
• Lemon and Salt Rust Removal

1. Baking Soda Rust Removing Method

Ideal for: Light metal and less severe rust.

How to Use Baking Soda to Remove Rust:

• Treat the metal item with a water rinse and then shake dry.
• Dust your metal item with baking soda; it will stick to the damp areas. Remember to cover the entire area that rusts.
• Leave the object for an hour or so, then scrub it with steel wool or a metal brush to remove rust down to the metal.
• Rinse and towel dry.

2. Potato and Dish Soap Rust Removing Method

Ideal for: Small rust stains.

How to Use Potato and Dish Soap to Remove Rust:

• After cutting the potato in half, cover the flattened surface with the dish soap.
• The potato and soap will create a chemical reaction that helps clean away the light rust if you rub it on the rusty surface.

3. Citric Acid Rust Removing Method

Ideal for: Stubborn rusty areas.

How to Use Citric Acid to Remove Rust:

• Add hot water to a bowl.
• Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of citric acid.
• Drop the keys into the bowl and let it sit overnight. 
• The next morning, carefully remove the keys and scrub any remaining rust with a brush.
• Rinse and dry with a cloth.

4. Lemon and Salt Rust Removing Method

Ideal for: Lighter rust.

How to Use Lemon and Salt to Remove Rust:

• Cover the rusted area with a layer of salt.
• Pour half a lemon’s juice over the salt.
• Let it sit for 30 minutes.
• Scrub away the rust with the rind.
• If rust persists, repeat the process and let the salt and juice sit for another hour or two until rust disappears completely.
• Rinse and dry.

Read: How To Unlock a Door Without a Key: Easy Tricks

Preventing Rust Appearing on Keys

If your key does end up heavily rusted or broken, key protect in car insurance could potentially cover replacements or repairs, saving you the hassle.

Following these final steps will help ensure your keys don’t rust in the future, making rust-related issues easy to avoid:

Clean the Lock

Clean the lock the key will go into, as it might rust it each time you use it.

Always Dry Your Keys

If your keys get wet, dry them up with a clean cloth and put them into a drawer or key holder without wasting much time; otherwise, a wet key reacting with air over a while may cause rust to appear.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping your keys rust-free is essential for their long life and functionality.

We have shown you the steps on how to clean rusty keys and prevent rust from forming in the future.

However, if rust has severely damaged your keys, making them hard to use or impossible to duplicate, you may need professional help. But don’t worry, you won’t have to search for a duplicate key maker near me for long, because you can contact Keyenzy to get locksmith services at your doorstep.

At Keyenzy, we offer comprehensive key replacement, key repairing, and key duplication services to ensure your keys are always in top condition and ready when you need them.

Remember, clean and well-maintained keys mean smoother access and fewer frustrations!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Does vinegar clean off rust?

Ans: To deal with items with high corrosion, immerse your rusty tools or knives in a bowl of white vinegar and let them soak overnight or for up to 24 hours. Once they’ve had a good soak, take them out of the vinegar and scrub off the rust with steel wool, a scouring pad, or a wire brush.

Q. How do you clean dirty old keys?

Ans: Cleaning dirty old keys requires a gentle yet effective approach. To start, remove any loose debris using a soft-bristled brush or a small, dry paintbrush. For tougher stains, try using a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar, or a commercial key cleaning solution.

Q. How can I get the rust off keys?

Ans: Let the keys soak in the vinegar for approximately three hours. Then, from the jar, take out the keys and wash them with fresh water; scrub off the remaining rust using a thick-bristled brush, then dry using a cloth.

Q. How to clean a rusty lock?

Ans: A little rust may be removed with an oil-based lubricant, such as WD-40. Spray it on and rub out the rust. Do this sparingly as that could attract dust or dirt that would block the lock. If there’s too much rust, a vinegar and water solution might do.