Taps are always wet, so rust shows up on them sooner than on other metal items around the home. The usual victims are old steel mixers, valves on pipes in the cellar, outdoor garden taps and any spot where the chrome plating is damaged.
At first rust only spoils the look; then it works into the thread and under the handle, and the tap becomes stiff or jams. Vinegar and lemon juice handle light bloom but need several rounds. A penetrating lubricant works faster and frees the mechanism at the same time.
What you will need
Important: Do not sand chrome or painted surfaces or use a stiff wire brush on them; use only a soft brass brush with light pressure. Keep the product out of drinking water: wash the tap afterwards and run the water for a few minutes.
Step 1
Clean the tap
Wipe the tap with a cloth to remove dirt, limescale and soap marks. If you use a damp cloth, dry the tap afterwards: the product works better on dry metal.
On a garden tap, remove the hose and clean the thread.
Step 2
Apply WD-40 to the rust
Shake the can and spray WD-40 Multi-Use onto the rusty areas so they are fully covered. Do not overdo it: excess will simply run into the sink.
If the valve handle is stiff, feed WD-40 Specialist Penetrant under the handle and onto the spindle through the thin straw.
Step 3
Wait a few minutes
Give it 5-10 minutes to work under the rust and loosen its grip on the metal. For a seized valve wait longer, then gently work the handle back and forth without excessive force.
Do not lever the handle with a long spanner: an old valve can snap along with the pipe.
Step 4
Brush off the rust
Gently scrub the treated areas: the softened rust comes away with little effort. On chrome use only a brass brush with light pressure.
Treat heavy rust again until the surface is clean.
Step 5
Sand the remnants and wash the tap
Remove any remaining rust on unpainted steel with fine abrasive paper. Then wash the tap with warm water and washing-up liquid and dry it.
Before drawing water, open the tap and let it run for a few minutes.
Tip: Before winter, shut off garden taps and valves in unheated spaces, drain them and treat the outside with
WD-40 Smart Straw: they will not freeze or rust before spring.
What next
As prevention, wipe cellar valves and garden taps with lubricant twice a year, and simply dry kitchen and bathroom mixers after use. If rust is coming through from under the chrome, the mixer is due for replacement.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».