Best Rust Converters of 2025

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Rust converters are a type of chemical solution that can be used to treat rusted metal surfaces. They work by converting the iron oxide that forms rust into a stable, black substance that can be painted over or left as is. Rust converters are popular among DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike, as they can save time and money by preventing the need for extensive sanding and repainting. They are also a great option for restoring older vehicles or machinery that may have developed rust over time. Rust converters come in a variety of formulas and can be found at most hardware stores.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

FDC Rust Converter Ultra Cover #TOP 1
FDC Rust Converter Ultra
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray Cover #TOP 2
Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Loctite Rust Neutralizer, 8 oz Cover #TOP 3
Loctite Rust Neutralizer, 8 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Rust Converters

#TOP 1

FDC Rust Converter Ultra

FDC
multi-color
FDC Rust Converter Ultra Cover
FDC Rust Converter Ultra, Highly Effective Professional Grade Rust Repair Spray (1 Gallon)

The FDC Rust Converter Ultra is a professional-grade rust repair product that can efficiently convert rust to an inert coating, eliminating the need for sandblasting, grinding or scraping. It can cover up to 500 square feet of a smooth, nonporous surface, making it an ideal solution for automobiles, machinery, railings, structures, tools, marine applications and more. The product can protect against rust and corrosion caused by all types of weather conditions, thus saving time and money. Additionally, the product comes with a 30-day hassle-free money-back guarantee.

What We Like
Effective rust prevention
Easy application process
Water-based formula
Excellent coverage
Long-lasting results
What We Don't Like
Requires proper surface prep
May need warmer temperatures
#TOP 2

Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray

248658
Black
Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray Cover
Rust-Oleum 248658 Rust Reformer Spray, 10.25 oz, Black

The Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray is a convenient solution for dealing with rusty metal surfaces. This product instantly converts rust to a flat black, paintable surface, providing protection and preventing future rust. Its oil-based formula creates a strong bond with the rusted surface, making it easy to apply paint afterward. With a quick drying time of 20-40 minutes, you can save time and effort by avoiding the need to sand the rust down to bare metal. The unique formula of the Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray transforms rusted surfaces, making them ready for a fresh coat of paint. Additionally, its any-angle spray technology allows you to spray in any direction, including upside down, for added convenience.

What We Like
Effective rust conversion
Easy to apply
Good coverage
Dries quickly
Compatible with top coats
What We Don't Like
Limited color options
Surface not perfectly smooth
#TOP 3

Loctite Rust Neutralizer, 8 oz

1381192
No Color
0.405 CDM
Loctite Rust Neutralizer, 8 oz Cover
Loctite Extend Rust Neutralizer, 8 oz

Loctite Rust Neutralizer is a rust converter that chemically converts mild surface rust to a neutral black surface, which is ready to paint. The convenient 8-ounce bottle makes it easy to apply.

What We Like
Effective rust conversion
Easy application process
Long-lasting protection
Versatile for various surfaces
What We Don't Like
Requires thorough rust removal
May need larger container
#TOP 4

Seymour 16-45 Rust Converter

16-45
Black
16 oz
Seymour 16-45 Rust Converter Cover
Seymour 16-45 Rust Converter, Black

The Seymour Rust Converter is a powerful solution for tackling rust on various surfaces such as vehicles, trailers, and fences. It effectively penetrates existing rust, transforming it into a strong black coating that protects against future corrosion. This means you can spend less time on laborious tasks like wire brushing and sanding, making your maintenance projects quicker and easier. With its durable formulation, this product helps you keep your metal surfaces looking new and prolongs their lifespan, providing peace of mind for your investments.

What We Like
Easy to work with
Excellent coverage
Dries quickly
Effective rust prevention
Good for quick applications
What We Don't Like
Poor spray nozzle
#TOP 5

Corroseal 82320 Rust Converter Primer

82320
Corroseal 82320 Rust Converter Primer Cover
Corroseal-82320 Water-Based Rust Converter Metal Primer, Rust Converter - 1 Qt

The Corroseal Rust Converter is a versatile solution for your metal restoration needs. It combines painting, priming, and rust conversion in one easy step, saving you time and effort. This water-based formula is not only safe, being non-flammable and non-corrosive, but it also cleans up easily with soap and water. You can apply it using a brush, roller, or spray, with a coverage of 200-250 square feet per gallon. Whether you're working on marine, automotive, or household projects, this product helps protect your metal surfaces from rust and corrosion, extending their life and durability.

What We Like
Effective rust conversion
Water-based, easy cleanup
Non-toxic and environmentally friendly
Durable black finish
Long-lasting results
What We Don't Like
Durability concern
Runny application
#TOP 6

Rust-Oleum 2-in-1 Rust Reform & Seal

344763
Black
Rust-Oleum 2-in-1 Rust Reform & Seal Cover
Rust-Oleum 344763 Automotive 2-in-1 Rust Reform & Seal, Quart, Black, 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Rust-Oleum Rust Reform is a user-friendly solution for protecting your metal surfaces from rust and moisture. Its convenient spray application allows you to easily seal and safeguard areas prone to corrosion. The flexible, rubberized coating offers excellent resistance to chemicals and wear, ensuring long-lasting durability. Plus, it dries quickly, allowing you to cover large areas efficiently. You can apply it with a brush, roller, or spray, making it versatile for various repair tasks. With a flat finish, it effectively conceals rust while preventing future damage, giving your projects a clean look.

What We Like
Excellent rust prevention
Great flat black finish
Easy application
Good coverage
Fast drying
What We Don't Like
Thin consistency
Can waste product if angled
#TOP 7

jecudi Ospho Metal Treatment Gallon

Ospho satisfying
1 Count (Pack of 1)
jecudi Ospho Metal Treatment Gallon Cover
jecudi Ospho Metal Treatment Gallon - Rust Converter for Metal Surfaces - Rust Remover for Cars, Boats, Trucks - Compatible with Most Vehicle Paints - Suitable for Indoor Use - Bonus Cleaning Towel

The jecudi Rust Converter is an essential tool for preparing metal surfaces for painting. It effectively removes rust and corrosion, helping you achieve a smoother finish and prolonging the life of your paint job. This versatile product works on various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and boats, making it a must-have for any DIY enthusiast. Its powerful formula is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, ensuring that you can tackle rust on any metal surface. Plus, it comes with a bonus cleaning towel, so you can easily clean up after your projects without any hassle.

What We Like
Effectively converts rust
No harsh smell
Easy application with spray bottle
Creates paintable surface
What We Don't Like
Product bottle may not be full
Can leave chalky residue
#TOP 8

Gemplers Rust Converter - Gallon

Black
Gemplers Rust Converter - Gallon Cover
Gempler's Rust Converter - Gallon

Gemplers Rust Converter is an eco-friendly rust converter for tools, vehicles, tanks, or anything with rusted steel/iron surfaces. It converts rust into an inert, black protective barrier and acts as a primer, making the surface ready to re-paint with an oil-based paint in just 48 hours. This rust converter is easy to apply with excellent coverage and does not require any sandblasting or heavy scraping. It is made from an easy clean-up water-based formula.

What We Like
Effective rust conversion
Easy application with a brush
Quick drying and visible results
Easy cleanup with water
Good coverage and economical
What We Don't Like
May stain cement surfaces
#TOP 9

Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray 3 Pack

248658A3
Black
Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray 3 Pack Cover
Rust-Oleum 248658-3PK Rust Reformer Spray, 10.25 oz, Black, 3 Pack

The Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer is designed for anyone dealing with rusty metal surfaces. This spray instantly transforms rust into a flat black, paintable finish, protecting against future corrosion. Its oil-based formula creates a strong bond with the rust, making it easy for you to paint over the surface without the hassle of sanding down to bare metal. You can expect it to dry tack-free within 20 to 40 minutes, allowing you to apply a topcoat after just 24 hours. Plus, its unique any-angle spray technology lets you use it from any position, even upside down, for maximum convenience.

What We Like
Effective on rusted metal
Durable black matte finish
Easy application process
Great for various applications
Good coverage
What We Don't Like
Misleading quantity in advertisement
#TOP 10

Eazy2hD Rust Converter, 1 Gallon

Rust Converter
Eazy2hD Rust Converter, 1 Gallon Cover
Eazy2hD Rust Converter for Metal, 1 Gallon Professional Rust Inhibitor, Water-Based Rust Remover for Metal to Paint Over, Stop Rust and Corrosion, Suitable for Black Metal Rust Removal Treatment

The Eazy2hD Rust Converter is a powerful solution for treating rusty metal surfaces. You can apply it directly to rusted areas, transforming the rust into a stable black filler while creating a protective layer to prevent future corrosion. It simplifies the process, allowing you to skip the tedious steps of sandblasting or scraping. Just clean the surface, apply the product, and wait for it to dry. This rust converter not only neutralizes rust but also leaves a glossy finish, making it an ideal base for painting. Its versatility makes it suitable for various metal types, ensuring your metal items remain in great condition.

What We Like
Effective rust sealing
Professional finish
Easy application
Durable black surface
Versatile for various projects
What We Don't Like
Limited availability in stores
Confusion with similar products
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does rust converter actually work?

Yes, rust converter is an effective solution for addressing rust buildup on iron and steel components. It works by converting iron oxides, which cause rust, into a protective chemical barrier. This barrier acts as a primer, allowing the metal to be painted over again.

2. Which is better rust remover or rust converter?

The choice between a rust remover and a rust converter depends on your specific needs. A rust remover provides a bare metal surface that requires further treatments. On the other hand, a rust converter is ideal for corrosion control and surfaces that you may want to eventually paint, such as boats, car bodies, and fences.

3. Do you need to sand before using rust converter?

Yes, it is recommended to prepare the surface before applying rust converter. Use a stiff-bristled brush, hammer, or sandpaper to remove large rust and scale particles. Good surface preparation ensures that the rust converter works effectively and results in a high-quality end result.

4. How long do you leave rust converter on?

The rust converter typically dries in 20 minutes, but it takes 24 hours to fully cure. Applying a second coating ensures proper rust conversion. If you plan to apply an oil-based top coat, wait 48 hours after the last coat to allow for proper curing. Always follow the safety precautions provided on the bottle.

5. What are the disadvantages of rust converter?

One disadvantage of rust converter is that it does not remove all rust back to bare metal. It only creates a stable compound that is ready for repainting, leaving some traces of rust behind. Keep in mind that rust converter is primarily used as a preparatory step before painting.

6. Can you put rust converter on bare metal?

No, rust converter is not suitable for bare metal surfaces. It is designed to be used on painted or coated surfaces to address rust and prepare them for repainting. If applied to bare metal, the rust converter may not fully cure, leaving the surface sticky.

Editor's Notes

During our rust converter research, we found 24 rust converter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 95,718 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rust converters list. We found that most customers choose rust converters with an average price of $32.27.

The rust converters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rust converters, including FDC, Rust-Oleum, Loctite, Seymour, Corroseal. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 4,022 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.

Rust Converters Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand FDC Rust-Oleum Loctite Seymour Corroseal Rust-Oleum jecudi Gempler's Rust-Oleum Eazy2hD
Item Volume 1 Gallons 300 Milliliters - - 1 Quarts 32 Fluid Ounces 1 Gallons 1 Gallons 12 Fluid Ounces -
Special Feature Rust Resistant Rust Resistant - - Rust Conversion Abrasion Resistant Rust Resistant Non Flammable Rust Resistant -
Unit Count 128.0 Fluid Ounces 10.25 Ounce - - 32.0 Fluid Ounces 32.0 Fluid Ounces 1.0 Count 128.0 Fluid Ounces 30.75 Ounce -
Surface Recommendation Iron Metal - - Metal Metal Metal iron Metal -
Size 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 10.25 Ounce (Pack of 1) - - 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) - 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 10.25 Ounce (Pack of 3) -
Paint Type Spray Enamel,Oil - - Watercolor Spray - Oil Oil -
Color multi-color Black - - - Black - Black Black -
Specific Uses For Product - Interior/Exterior - - Interior/Exterior Exterior - Interior/Exterior Metal -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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