Rust stains/sail cleanup

[werawesum]

Does anyone have a remedy for getting rust stains out of sails? I have some small stains in the jib I would like to clean up. Any help would be appreciated, thanks.

[AnchorageGuy]

we have used a product found at Home Depot called Rustaid with great results. We use it anywhere on the boat that has rust stains including the sails.

[Alan Wheeler]

If you have synthetic sails, Phosphoric acid is just fine. Apply, then after the stain has gone, hose off.

[delmarrey]

Actually, any type of acid will dissolve rust including lemon juice. Most sails made of Dacron or Polyester are resistant to acids. The lighter acids take longer but still work. And washing the treated area with plenty of fresh water is important so as not to affect other items like sail covers.

I have used nitric acid which takes it out in seconds but one must know the precautionary measures. Carpet cleaning supplies carry a small bottle of Rust Remover that works real good. But Rubber gloves and safety glasses are a must when using any toxic chemicals.

[mobetah]

Oxiclean?????

[delmarrey]

Originally Posted by werawesum

I posted this somewhere on the site the other day but failed to notice which topic heading I was in. If you see it somewhere else in here, ignore it. I was wondering if anyone had some advice on getting what I think are rust stains out of sails. I have a new main and now the jib just like it needs a good cleaning. Anyone got a good idea for me? Thanks, Bob

Here, I've merged the threads so it will remain one.

[werawesum]

Thanks for the replies, at least now I have a place to start.
Best regards, Bob

[pscottharris]

Try FSR or Y10 , if the sail is dacron, or another synthetic. Keep it wet, leave on for about 15 minutes.