After being formed by an ironworker is often used to decorate fencing, gates as well as furniture for gardens. Wrought iron is also used for curtains, candle holders, and wine racks. Although wrought iron is resistant to corrosion compared to other metals, it will remain dirty, filthy, and rusty over time. As such, you’ll have to clean it frequently. You can revive the wrought iron with the appropriate tools and a short time.

How Often Should You Clean Wrought Iron?

The frequency of cleaning the iron depends on what you plan to use it for and the likelihood of collecting dirt and other debris. For example, if you have patio furniture made of wrought iron and benches, you’ll need to wash it at least once per season (or when you see it’s becoming dirty). Because you’re not sitting on them, you can get away with cleaning other types of wrought iron, like fences and gates, less frequently–potentially once or twice a year. If you own wrought iron fixtures within your home, you should clean them at least once per season or whenever necessary.

Remove the Dust

As with everything else within your home, iron is prone to collecting dust in time. Remove all visible dust before you can efficiently clean the ironwork. If the surface of your iron isn’t large, you can use the duster or a microfiber cloth for the task. You might want to utilize a vacuum if you work on a larger area, such as a patio or railing set.

Connect the brush attachment to the hose and work upwards and downwards on the surface to rid yourself of any dust or debris.

Wash The Wrought Iron

The next step is to clean the pesky dirt and grime off your iron. Begin by putting just a few drops of gentle liquid dish soap in the bucket with warm water. The goal is generally one tablespoon of soap for each quarter quart of water.

If you’re trying to clean indoor ironwork that’s not as dirty, you can use an easy vinegar and water solution. All you need to do is add a half cup of white vinegar distilled to a one-half gallon of water.

Then you can dip a sponge or an appropriate-sized brush into the solution and use it to wash the surface. A medium or large-sized brush is suitable on larger surfaces. However, it is possible to choose smaller ones that can get into crevices and curves for detail work.

Rinse With Clean Water

After you’ve thoroughly cleaned your iron’s surface, rinse off any soapy remnants. If you’re inside, you can use an e-cloth or a sponge soaked in water to complete the task. If you’re cleaning an extensive outdoor space, you can utilize your garden hose to wash away any soap left.

Remove the Rust

After removing the ironwork of dirt, It is possible to finish it off by getting rid of rusty spots. Sandpaper or paint scrapers might be enough to remove it, but for most rusty areas, you might require the assistance of a chemical called phosphoric Acid.

Phosphoric Acid, available in spray and gel forms, transforms the rust into a hard black crust that is easier to eliminate. Use phosphoric Acid only at night or inside a well-ventilated area. Before applying the Acid, wear thongs and eye shields and we ask for your face. Let the Acid remain in place for 24 hours before retouching it. After that, you can use a wire brush to eliminate the particles.

When you finish the cleaning, you might want to repeat the process, particularly if you intend to repaint the ironwork.

Repaint as Needed

The ironwork you paint, especially furniture for patios, can be vulnerable to paint chips resulting from regular usage. After your wrought iron has been completely dry, you can use medium-weight sandpaper to smooth the chipped areas. If your wrought iron is covered with many areas of paint that have chipped and other particles, then a pressure washer could be more effective in stripping it before painting. If you use this method, let the surface completely dry before painting.

When the surface is dry, clean any remaining dust or particles using a clean microfiber cloth. Apply the appropriate paint using your brush, and let it dry.

If you’re painting a large piece of iron wrought with intricate designs, apply spray paint, not use a brush.

How to Keep Wrought Iron Cleaner, Longer

Cleaning wrought iron takes some time and effort than other chores in the home. That’s why, once you’ve finished painting or cleaning, ensure you protect it with a protective coating. Spray car or specially-designed iron wax over the iron after the paint has dried to provide a protective layer that will shield your iron from chipping paint and scratches as time passes.

Cleaning your iron wrought as you go could also lengthen the time between deep cleanings (and avoid unnecessary damage). For instance, if you have a wrought iron patio set, wipe off spills and splatters whenever they occur. Also, pay attention to insect repellent or sunscreen residues, which could cause discoloration of wrought iron.