The unlikely baking ingredient that tackles stubborn rust on garden furniture
An item in your pantry can prevent rust on garden furniture (Image: Getty)
Rust can quickly turn garden furniture from a summer showpiece into an eyesore, but experts say an unlikely baking cupboard staple could help restore metal tables and chairs without expensive cleaning products.
Homeowners are being encouraged to try black treacle to tackle stubborn rust buildup on outdoor furniture, with experts claiming the sweet ingredient can help break down corrosion that has built up over time.
The advice comes from the team at LightingLegends.com, who say rust is a common problem during the warmer months as garden furniture is exposed to rain, humidity and moisture in the air.
Black treacle can help remove stubborn rust from metal garden furniture. (Image: Getty)
Over time, water and oxygen can wear away protective coatings on metal furniture, allowing rust to develop and spread across surfaces.
While light rust can often be removed using a wire brush or abrasive sponge, more severe corrosion may need extra help to loosen it before scrubbing.
Jon Saeed from LightingLegends.com said: “Rust on garden furniture can be a real nuisance and can instantly make chairs, tables and benches look old and unclean.”
“Whether or not it’s easy to clean will depend on how long it’s been there for and how much of it there is. A light layer of rust can usually be removed with a wire brush or abrasive sponge, but anything that’s been left longer can be a lot more stubborn to remove.”
According to Jon, acidic substances are among the most effective ways to tackle rust because they help break it down, making it easier to remove.
“Things that contain acids are generally the best cleaning agents for this issue as acidity is what helps break down the rust, making it easier to scrub away,” he explained.
“Surprisingly, treacle works a treat, but it tends to work best for furniture that you are able to dismantle and soak.”
He added that homeowners who cannot take their furniture apart may be better off using a citric acid paste instead.
“If you can’t dismantle your furniture then creating a thick paste with citric acid is a better option,” he said.
For cast iron or steel furniture, Jon recommends mixing one part black treacle with eight parts warm water and stirring until fully combined.
If possible, remove the rusty component from the furniture and fully submerge it in the solution.
Depending on how severe the rust is, leave it to soak for anywhere between two days and a week.
Once soaked, scrub away the loosened rust using a wire brush or abrasive sponge before washing the item thoroughly and drying it completely.
Experts say ensuring furniture is fully dry after cleaning can also help prevent rust from returning, allowing outdoor tables, chairs and benches to stay in better condition throughout the summer months.
