I got lucky at an estate sale last weekend where I bought 5 old tackle boxes for $5 each that were full of old (some rusty) lures. I was hoping to clean them all together with crl or something like that. What's the best recommendation for cleaning, not one at a time that would take forever. Rough lure count 300. Here are a few pic's to get an idea of what the task looks like. Thanks.

A lot of those just look like they need a real good rinsing. Those with bad hooks likey can be repaired with split rings and fresh hooks.

First do a quick sort. You don’t want to clean the rusty ones with the non-rusty ones. The next decision is to decide what your goal is. If you want a lure to resale, cleaning them one at a time is best. I use toothpaste and a toothbrush. If you just want lures to fish with, that have a few nicks, then put them in a sealed container with crushed ice, salt and a little water. Shake till you are happy with the result. You will get nicks on the lures from the hooks and it will take some time to untangle everything, but it cleans them pretty well. Let us know what you decide and how it works. The rusted ones may be a loss unless you want to spend some time cleaning them.

Almost looks like my wife sold off some of my old stuff. enjoy the treasure.
(I do see a couple of Bomber Pinfish that used to be reeeeealy good for me).

Sorry; time cannot be saved when restoring treasure lures.
- You do not want any nicks in the paint. There will already be enough of that from rust eating on them and being close or touching living rubber skirts.
- Remove all hooks.
- Soak them over night in Dawn dish soap.
- Use a tooth brush and baking soda tooth paste to do your final cleaning.
- Order a bunch of different size KVD short shank Triple Grip hooks and split rings to replace.
- Many of the top water baits will need the Feathered Hooks on the rear.

I do all of this for you for $5 per bait. If interested let me know.

I was watching vids from 'TacticalBassin' on YouTube yesterday, and he mentioned the Mr Clean Magic Eraser pads are brilliant for cleaning marred up crankbaits when nothing else will work!

Might be worth a try!

Those with light rust, throw them in a container of vinegar, soak over night, rinse with water. Heavy rust, throw hooks away, replace with new split rings and hooks.