Rust stains on clothes can be removed by following these tips:

1. Remove Excess: Brush the excess stain off the surface of the fabric.
2. Pre-treat: Using a bucket, a sink or a bowl, create a soaking solution by adding 3 tablespoons of baking soda per gallon of cold water. Allow the garment to soak for up to 5 minutes, weighting the item with a white towel to keep it totally submerged.
3. Dose: Without rinsing off the detergent, place the garment into the washer with other items. Leaving the detergent on the stain will give your wash that extra boost of cleaning power.
4. Wash: Wash on the usual cycle, on the hottest wash temperature indicated. Always check the instructions on the garment’s care label.
5. Unload: When the cycle is complete, unload the garments immediately. If the stain persists after washing, repeat the previous steps before tossing in the dryer, as drying will set the stain.

Other tips include using salt or baking soda with another agent, like lemon juice, to remove old, dried rust stains from fabric. For delicate fabrics or garments that cant be washed, you can put a bit of dish soap onto a damp white cloth and dab the rust stain several times. Get the stain area soapy and let it sit for 10 minutes. Rinse the stained area with warm water until it runs clear. You may have to repeat the process several times to get the stain out.

It is important to read the care instructions and warnings on the label before attempting to remove stains from clothing. If youre in doubt about how to treat a particular fabric, spot-test your stain remover of choice first.