How to clean a a small metal milk can?

Ann Halsing
by Ann Halsing

How can I clean an old small milk can that is a little rusty, I tried going over it with steel wool lightly but it didn't really clean it.so I could use some input. Thanks Ann H.

  5 answers
  • Janet Janet on Oct 09, 2018

    Perhaps a palm sander would help

  • 16999903 16999903 on Oct 09, 2018

    Hi Ann! You have the right idea with the steel wool! Try oiling the rusted areas with 3 and 1 Oil and then sand. Continue over the entire can with the oil. It might take several times depending on the amount of rust.


    One question....are you wanting to restore the finish or get it clean enough to paint or decorate it?

    Best of luck! Come back and tell us what works.

  • Joanne lueke Joanne lueke on Oct 09, 2018

    WD-40 will remove rust easily. Just spritz a little WD-40 on the rusty areas, let it sit for a few minutes, then use your steel wool to take it off. Good luck!

  • Joy30150932 Joy30150932 on Oct 09, 2018

    Clean it really well after you remove the rust and I recommend using vinegar to before you paint.

    • Ann Halsing Ann Halsing on Oct 09, 2018

      Hi thanks for your input I just want to clean it, I'm not going to paint it.

  • Kmdreamer Kmdreamer on Oct 09, 2018

    Try brasso cream cleanser it’s for Crome brass it cleans rust