What are some effective methods for cleaning and restoring rusty guitar pickups to improve their performance and sound quality?

To clean and restore rusty guitar pickups, you can use a mixture of vinegar and water to remove rust, followed by a gentle scrub with a soft brush. You can also use a rust remover product specifically designed for metal surfaces. After cleaning, apply a thin coat of oil or wax to protect the pickups from future rusting. This process can help improve the performance and sound quality of the pickups.