Garden tools are essential for maintaining an outdoor space, but they can easily become victims of the elements. Rust, the common enemy of metal, is not just unsightly—it can also degrade the functionality and longevity of your tools.

If you've already tried scrubbing rust off your garden tools without success, you might feel like giving up. However, there are several other effective methods that can help you remove rust and restore your tools to their former glory.

Rust forms when iron in the tools reacts with oxygen and moisture in the environment. As such, removing rust often requires more than just physical elbow grease. You'll need to apply materials that react chemically with rust to loosen and lift it off the tool's surface. Here are some tried-and-true methods to get rid of that stubborn rust:

1. Submerge the rusty garden tool in a container filled with white vinegar. The acetic acid in the vinegar will break down the rust.

2. Leave the tool soaking for at least 24 hours. For heavily rusted tools, you may need to leave them for a couple of days.

3. Remove the tool from the vinegar and scrub off the rust with a steel wool pad or a wire brush. The rust should come off more easily after the soak.

4. Rinse the tool with water to remove any remaining vinegar and loose rust.

5. Dry your garden tool thoroughly to prevent future rust.

1. Mix water and baking soda to create a thick paste.

2. Apply the paste generously to rusted areas of the tool.

3. Leave it on for several hours or overnight, depending on the severity of the rust.

4. Scrub the rust off with a brush; the baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive.

5. Rinse and dry the tool completely after the process.

1. Cut a potato in half and cover the cut end with dish soap or baking soda.

2. Press the potato onto the rusty areas of the tool and let it sit for a few hours. The oxalic acid in potatoes helps break down rust.

3. After the time has passed, use the potato as a scrubber by twisting it back and forth on the rust.

4. Rinse and dry your tool well afterward.

1. Purchase a commercial rust remover or converter. These products are specifically designed to deal with rust.

2. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. This typically involves applying the product to the rust, letting it sit, and then scrubbing or wiping it off.

3. Always wear gloves and protective eyewear when using chemicals.

4. Make sure you work in a well-ventilated area.

5. Rinse and dry your garden tool thoroughly once the rust is removed.

1. Always clean your tools after use, removing soil and plant debris.

2. Dry tools completely before storing them.

3. Store tools in a dry place.

4. Oil the metal parts of your tools regularly with a light machine oil to create a protective barrier against moisture.

5. Sharpen cutting tools periodically; this also helps to prevent rust.

Rust doesn't mean the end of your garden tools' useful life. With a little time and the right approach, they can often be saved and protected against future rusting. This not only saves you money in the long run but also allows you to keep using tools that you're comfortable with and that perform well in your garden.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove