Start by scrubbing the rust lightly with a wire brush. Scrub hard enough to remove any rust flakes, but be careful not to scratch the paint (unless the rust is so bad that the furniture needs repainting).

If there are rust stains but no flakes, dip a very fine steel-wool pad into kerosene, and brush out the stains. Wear safety glasses and rubber gloves when handling kerosene, and work well away from open flames.

If rust has developed in the joints of the furniture, it may be easier to disassemble the furniture and work with smaller pieces.

After removing the rust, coat the furniture with liquid wax, available at most automotive stores. The wax will help protect the finish against further rust.

Severe rust problems can be treated with naval jelly, which dissolves rust. Some products convert the rust into a primer so the metal can be painted later.