u/Acem0nky10

Got this old chest as a coffee table but outside is this thin metal(?) layer that is very rusty, it makes my fingers go orange. Any videos I find on removing rust tell you to put it in white vinegar for hours, but this boy is obviously too big. So how else would I "soak" it properly? I'm also afraid the green might come off if I use a steelwool. What are your thoughts?