How can I remove rust from a 50 year old outside thermometer?

Navel jelly (from a good hardware store). Slow work with a toothbrush and old T shirt scraps. FINE steelwool....but be careful! You might reduce it's value!! OLD RUST is SO "IN"!

WD40 works too, be sure to wear plastic/vinyl gloves.

Navel jelly- from a hardware store.

Brasso it’s a cream cleaner it cleans very well try using that to take the bus stuff it does clean was very well

If the mercury thermometer is intact, mark the 0 degrees spot on the glass before removing the thermometer. Then soak the metal in white vinegar overnight. The mild arctic acid in the vinegar dissolved the rust. However, you must coat the cleaned metal with a light coat of mineral oil or it will quickly rust again. Then remount the glass thermometer in its original position.

Naval jelly and then if there is still some left, fine steel wool.

This post here might have some helpful info for you! https://ask.metafilter.com/14081/Restoration-Tips-for-Rusty-Outside-Thermometer-Exposed-to-Elements-for-50-Years

Hi Robin: You can use Loctite Navel Jelly or Rust-Oleum Rust Dissolver Jelly. I think that Home Depot and Lowes carry this.

I'd try some WD40 and a scrubby pad as I've seen it work well on rust like that.

Use a cotton ball or pad that has been soaked in rubbing alcohol to completely coat the gadget. For minor crevices, use an alcohol-dipped cotton swab to wipe the interior. To properly eliminate germs, let the alcohol on the thermometer air dry.

Hi Robin, hope this helps you.

Baking Soda (Bicarbonate of Soda) The rusted item can either be dusted with baking soda or made into a paste with water or vinegar. Apply to the areas and leave for an hour or so then clean off with a brush.