ᐅ How to remove surface rust from a stainless steel door handle?

Created on: 16 Apr 2019 08:30
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blaupuma
blaupuma16 Apr 2019 08:30
Hello, the stainless steel handle on my side entrance door is developing rust.

Does anyone have any tips on how to care for it?
Thanks

Close-up of a rusty door handle on a gray door
seth048716 Apr 2019 08:47
We have the same problem. However, we haven’t taken any action against it yet, so I would also appreciate any advice.

I have also read tips online where lemon juice (concentrate) and cola were used.
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Airea
16 Apr 2019 09:02
What material is the gray area made of, where the handle is attached? Is the handle mounted on top there, or is it continuous?

The corrosion can have several causes. It looks like crevice corrosion, meaning the design with the gap prevents the protective oxide layer from forming due to insufficient oxygen, so even stainless steels can corrode there. Humidity in the air is enough for this to happen.
If the pipe rests on the gray area, it could also be that the material was contaminated during processing, for example by tools that had already been used on rusting steel.

In any case, the handle should be removed and the corrosion eliminated by grinding/polishing, then the area should be passivated if possible. This can be done either with stainless steel pickling paste (expensive and toxic) or with cola/lemon juice (no joke).
Afterward, keep the area as clean as possible. If it was only contamination, it should remain rust-free in the future. If it is truly crevice corrosion, then occasionally treating the spot sparingly with a maintenance oil may be necessary to remove the medium required for corrosion (moisture).
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ypg
16 Apr 2019 10:13
I use baking soda for everything. You can buy it in a 5 kg (11 lb) bucket 🙂
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Nordlys
16 Apr 2019 11:25
Sidol and done.
rick201816 Apr 2019 21:04
Use a rust remover designed for cars. Most products have a strong odor, but after one or two applications, the rust is gone. Rinse thoroughly afterwards. It is also safe to use on painted surfaces. After that, apply either stainless steel care product from Würth or WD40.