If you have running water in your household, it’s likely that you have encountered hard water stains in the toilet at one point or another. These marks are difficult to remove, and can make your clean toilet bowl look dirty.
We take a look at some DIY methods on how to remove hard water stains from toilet bowl below. So read on and make cleaning easier!
What Are Hard Water Stains?
Hard water stains are those white, brown or rust-colored spots you find on your sinks, faucets, or shower doors.
Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that leave behind a chalky residue when the water evaporates.
What You’ll Need to Clean Your Toilet
Before you start, make sure you have the right tools for the job. The following items will help you get rid of the stains and make your toiler sparkle:
Baking soda: This household staple is a natural cleaning agent that’s great for scrubbing away grime. It’s gentle and effective, making it perfect for porcelain surfaces.
Vinegar: Vinegar’s acidity helps dissolve mineral deposits and battle bacteria. It’s also eco-friendly and economical!
Bon Ami or Borax: Choose one of these for an extra punch in your cleaning routine. Bon Ami is a mild abrasive cleaner, while Borax is a bit more effective against tougher stains.
Rubber gloves: To keep your hands clean and safe from germs, always wear gloves. They’ll protect your skin from harsh cleaners and prevent the spread of bacteria.
Using Baking Soda and Vinegar to Clean
Baking soda and vinegar are excellent for sprucing up toilets! These household staples are not only effective but also safe and free from any harsh odors.
Pour the Vinegar: Begin your cleaning adventure by gently pouring 2 cups of white vinegar into the toilet bowl. With a toilet brush in hand, give the liquid a good swirl to ensure it reaches all the nooks and crannies, especially where the stains are most stubborn. Allow the vinegar to do its magic for a short while, approximately one minute, to break down the deposits.
Add the Baking Soda: Next, take a cup of baking soda and sprinkle it evenly across the bowl. Follow this by adding another 1 to 2 cups of vinegar. There will soon be a bubbling reaction. This fizz is a sign of the cleaning action taking place. Let the mixture bubble for around 10 minutes, tackling the grime and buildup.
Scrub Away: It’s time to put some elbow grease into it. Firmly hold your toilet brush and scrub the sides of the bowl thoroughly. Pay special attention to any stained areas, but remember to be gentle to avoid scratching the surface. Use consistent, circular motions to help lift the grime away.
Let It Sit: After you’ve scrubbed, give the mixture some extra time to work on those stains. Let the solution sit for up to 30 minutes. During this time, if you notice stains above the waterline, give them an extra scrub. After the half-hour is up, flush to rinse away the cleaning solution along with the loosened deposits.
Trying Out Bon Ami and Vinegar
Bon Ami is a classic toilet bowl cleaner that tackles even the most stubborn stains without damaging surfaces.
Pour the Bon Ami: Begin by evenly distributing 1/4 cup of Bon Ami powder around the inside of your toilet bowl. Use a toilet brush to spread it around, ensuring you cover the problem areas where stains are most visible.
Add the Vinegar: Next, carefully pour 1 cup of white vinegar into the bowl. The vinegar will react with the Bon Ami, working together to break down stains. Let this mixture sit for approximately 20 minutes to allow the cleaning agents to do their magic.
Scrub Time: After the waiting period, it’s time to roll up your sleeves. Scrub the bowl thoroughly with the toilet brush, paying extra attention to any persistent spots. Finally, flush the toilet to wash away residue.
Using Borax Paste for Stubborn Stains
Borax paste is a powerful cleaning agent that can tackle those tough-to-remove water stains from your toilet bowl.
Shut Off and Flush: Before you start, make sure to turn the knob behind the toilet to cut off the water supply. Then, flush the toilet. This will drain the water out of the bowl, giving you a clear area to work on.
Make the Paste: In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of Borax with 1/4 cup of vinegar. Stir them until you have a thick paste. The consistency should be similar to peanut butter or toothpaste.
Spread the Paste: Using gloves, apply the paste directly onto the stained areas. Cover them fully so the paste can work on every part of the stain.
Wait It Out: Let the paste sit for about 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, the Borax will penetrate the stain and break it down, making it easier to remove.
Scrub Off: After the wait, grab a stiff-bristled brush and scrub the treated areas well. Swish it around using circular motions and a bit of elbow grease. Once you’re done, flush the toilet to rinse away the paste and any loosened residue.
Pumice Stone
The natural abrasive properties of a pumice stone make it a popular choice for removing stains and residue from household surfaces. It can be effective in removing the hard water stains in your toilet bowl.
Scrubbing the stains with this stone can damage your toilet, especially if it is made of marble, plastic, fiberglass, or laminate. It can also scratch porcelain surfaces. Hence, a pumice stone should always be the last resort.
Chemical Cleaners
If all else fails, it might be time to use chemical solutions such as bleach. These products are harmful to the environment and can potentially be harmful to you, so use them at your own discretion.
These cleaners contain powerful ingredients that break down and dissolve mineral deposits, making it easier to scrub away stubborn stains. Using a chemical cleaner can save time and effort compared to using traditional cleaning methods.
It is important to follow the instructions on the label of the cleaner to ensure safe and effective use. Some chemical cleaners may be harsh and can cause skin irritation or damage to surfaces if not used properly. Wear gloves and ventilate the area when using these products to minimize exposure to potentially harmful fumes.
When Should You Clean Hard Water Stains?
The best time to eliminate hard water stains is as soon as you see them. If you let them sit, they can get tougher to clean because the minerals have more time to build up and stick to the surface.
Cleaning these stains quickly not only makes the process simpler but also prevents long-term damage to your surfaces. Over time, if left untreated, hard water stains can etch into the surface and degrade the finish on your fixtures, making them look dull and worn.
Regularly checking your toilet bowl for stains can help you spot hard water buildup before it becomes an issue. And when you do find them, act fast! A quick wipe-down can save you time and effort in the long run.
Removing Hard Water Stains From Your Toilet The Right Way
Removing hard water stains from the toilet can become much easier if you follow the above tips. It is important to check and clean your toilet bowl regularly to ensure those unsightly stains don’t become a permanent fixture.
Chemical solutions tend to be easier to apply than DIY methods, but they have their own drawbacks. In the end, it’s completely up to you to decide what you are going for.
