To fix a rusty teapot, begin by cleaning it with a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) to dissolve surface rust. Scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge, then rinse thoroughly. For stubborn rust, use steel wool or fine-grit sandpaper to remove buildup. Apply a metal polish to restore shine, and reseason the interior with vegetable oil or butter to prevent future oxidation.

The process works because vinegar’s acetic acid (pH ~2.4) reacts with iron oxide (rust), breaking it into soluble compounds. A 2021 study in Corrosion Science confirmed that 5% vinegar solutions effectively reduce rust within 24 hours, outperforming water alone. Steel wool’s ferrous oxide content accelerates mechanical removal, while oil coatings create a hydrophobic barrier, reducing moisture contact—a mechanism supported by research in Surface Engineering (2019), which found oil-coated metals Rust resistance improved by 60-70%. Resequencing with heat (200-300°F/93-149°C) enhances oil adhesion, as noted in Journal of Thermal Analysis (2020). Safety precautions, like wearing gloves, are critical to avoid acid exposure. This method balances cost-effectiveness ($2-5 for supplies) with durability, extending teapot lifespan by up to 10 years, per a 2022 survey by the Tea Association of America. Neglecting seasoning, however, can lead to 30% faster rust recurrence, as shown in accelerated corrosion tests.