How to Remove Rust Stains from Slate

Andrea said, “How can you remove a rust stain from a slate shower floor?”

Table of Contents:

Removing the Stains
Additional Tips and Advice
Sources

Iron particles in tap water are a common cause of rust stains around bathroom fixtures. Although slate is not a material commonly thought of as becoming stained, it’s not impervious to rust stains. Thankfully, the stains can be removed fairly easily by following the steps below.¹

Removing the Stains

You Will Need:

Iron Out
Distilled water
A scrub brush
A cloth
Kerosene

Steps to Remove the Stains:

Put on a pair of heavy-duty rubber cleaning gloves and a long-sleeve shirt to ensure your hands and arms are protected from the chemicals.¹
Combine as much powdered Iron Out as needed with some distilled water to make a paste.
Spread a thick layer of the paste over the rust stain.
Let the paste sit on the stain for about an hour.
Scrub the paste into the stain with a soft-bristled brush.
Rinse the area well.
Repeat the process as many times as needed to remove the stain.
If the stain is stubborn, dampen a cloth with kerosene and wipe away the stain.¹
Rinse the area well with soapy water once the stain is gone.¹

Additional Tips and Advice

Lemon Kool-Aid, Tang,² or Bar Keepers Friend can be used in place of Iron Out, however, they all contain acid,³ which can dull the surface of the slate.¹
Scrubbing the rust stains with lemon juice or white vinegar can also be effective.¹
Never try to clean away a rust stain with a product that contains chlorine bleach as it can cause the stains to darken.¹