Use white vinegar: soak the rusted item in vinegar for several hours, then scrub with a wire brush or abrasive pad, rinse, and dry thoroughly
Use baking soda paste: mix baking soda with water to form a paste, apply to rust, scrub after 30–60 minutes, rinse, and dry
Use lemon juice and salt: apply salt to rust, squeeze lemon juice over it, wait 30–60 minutes, scrub, rinse, and dry
Use commercial rust remover (phosphoric or oxalic acid): apply per label directions, scrub as needed, rinse, and dry
Use electrolysis (small metal parts): set up a non-reactive tank, connect the part to the negative terminal and a sacrificial anode (e.g., steel) to the positive, run until rust loosens, rinse, and dry
Use abrasive removal: sandpaper, wire brush, flap disc, or steel wool until rust is removed down to clean metal
Use a rust-removal wheel or drill attachment: grind rust off carefully, then wipe clean and dry
After removal, protect the metal: apply primer and paint, or use a rust-inhibiting oil/grease (especially for tools)
Dry completely after any wet method: heat gently or use compressed air to prevent flash rust
For pits/rough areas: repeat cleaning and then apply primer/filler before painting