After you’ve beaten the rust, rinse, rinse, rinse with cold water. Then wash the garment as usual with your regular detergent. Don’t toss it in the dryer until you’re 100% sure the stain is gone. Heat can set a stain permanently, like a bad tattoo you regret after one too many drinks. Air dry it first, and smile when you see the clean fabric.
And remember: rust happens to the best of us. It’s not a sign that you’re a bad adult. It just means you own metal things, and metal things have a sense of humor. Next time you find that orange monster, you’ll know exactly how to kick it out. No drama, just lemon and salt.
Now go forth and conquer. Your laundry basket is waiting, and you’ve got this.
