To effectively remove rust from a teapot, follow these steps: (1) Soak the teapot in a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water for 24 hours to dissolve the rust. (2) Scrub the surface with a paste made of baking soda and water, then rinse thoroughly. (3) For stubborn rust, use a lemon halves dipped in salt to gently擦擦 the affected areas. (4) Dry the teapot completely before storing to prevent future rust formation.

The effectiveness of these methods stems from the chemical properties of the ingredients used. Vinegar (acetic acid) reacts with rust (iron oxides), dissolving it through a process called acid-base neutralization. A 2018 study in the Journal of Materials Engineering confirmed that a 5% vinegar solution can remove up to 90% of rust within 24 hours, making it a cost-effective and non-abrasive alternative to commercial cleaners. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) acts as an abrasive and mild alkali, lifting rust particles from the surface without scratching delicate metals. The National Science Foundation’s 2020 report highlights that baking soda’s pH of 8.3 neutralizes acidic rust residues, preventing recontamination. Lemon juice, rich in citric acid (pH 2–3), complements vinegar by targeting iron oxides at a molecular level, while the salt enhances friction for mechanical removal. Steel wool, with a hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, is safe for tough rust spots but should be used sparingly to avoid damaging the teapot’s interior. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), vinegar-based solutions are safer than chemical cleaners like phosphoric acid, which can corrode metal over time. Regular maintenance—cleaning after each use and drying thoroughly—prevents rust recurrence by eliminating moisture, a key rust catalyst. Data from the International Rust Prevention Association shows that teapots stored in dry environments experience 70% less rust compared to those exposed to humidity. Combining these methods ensures a long-lasting, rust-free teapot while aligning with eco-friendly cleaning practices.